Summer meetings. First, in past years, you have canceled not only the meeting closest to the Independence Day Holiday, but also one in August. Diana will be polling all of you in the next week or so to check on your summer plans. Depending on what we learn, we may propose to cancel one (or none!) of the two meetings in August. We will try to keep Study Sessions in the summertime to a minimum. Because we cancel that first meeting in July, the meeting on July 20 will be very important, so we probably won't pick that one!
League of Oregon Cities Policy Committee meetings. Several of you know that in the spring and summer of even numbered years, the League of Oregon cities develops an agenda to guide the League's work on issues before the upcoming State Legislature. The League forms Policy Committees around several topic areas to develop a list of possible priorities. There are nine standing committees, and each committee will recommend that the League Board and membership consider three or four major policy initiatives as a priority. (The list of standing committees can be found at http://www.orcities.org/AboutUs/PolicyCommittees/tabid/833/language/en-US/Default.aspx). The complied list will go to the League Board in the summer, and then it will go out to all 202 member cities (including Ashland) for the members to vote on the priorities. The top three or four issues selected by the members will become the League's top priorities for the 2011 Legislative session. Currently, I serve on two Policy Committees (Finance and Taxation and Community Development) and Mike Faught and Councilor Chapman serve on the Transportation Policy Committee.
The Community Development Policy Committee has finished its work for the year and has recommended four priorities. The four priorities are: 1) Giving cities the ability to set their own population forecasts for land use planning if their County either fails to do it or fails to take City issues into account. 2) Create a conflict resolution process to deal with disagreements between Cities and Counties (like Ashland has with Jackson County) over population forecasts. 3) Create a work group that would look at a wide range of issues that are affecting cities abilities to amend their urban grown boundaries (this is not a big issue for Ashland, but has been difficult for a lot of cities in Oregon). 4) Develop legislation to resolve conflicts between the Transportation Planning Rule and the Statewide Land Use Planning Goal 14 (Urbanization). This would also be beneficial to Ashland as the current regulations and case law require cities to plan for new roads (often) before adopting land use plan. It doesn't allow cities to negotiate lower or different traffic standards, and it doesn't allow cities to use transit or non-motorized transportation to off-set required road improvements. Thus, the current application of the Transportation Planning Rule is in conflict with the Urbanization Goal's focus on infill and transit friendly design.
The Finance and Taxation Committee is about 2/3 of the way through their work. At this point, this committee is working on three priorities: 1) Convening a work group (not Legislation) to craft options to reform Oregon's Property Tax system. The focus is on creating a revenue neutral change that makes a stronger connection between Real Market Value and Assessed value, increases local control, allows jurisdictions to adjust their permanent rate, is stable, and addresses issues for local governments and for schools. I will keep you posted on this priority, as it is quite important for all local governments in Oregon. 2) Protecting State Shared Revenues (Gas Tax, Liquor Tax, Cigarette Tax, and 9-1-1 Tax). Finally 3) Allowing Transient Occupancy Tax to be used for visitor-related services as well as for capital project and for tourism marketing. This is a change we have previously supported as it would allow us to fund a few of the things that are directly related to the influx of visitors we receive in the summer such as Park Patrol. This committee will finish up on May 13, and I'll let you all know if there is a change.
Mike and David can give you an update on the Transportation Committee once they have finished their work. As a side note, if any of you are interested in particular issues that cities face on the state level, let me or Ann know, and we'll get you plugged into a League Committee during the next cycle.
Another Era is Ending. Many of you know that after approximately a bizillian years (ok, so 28 years), Pat Woods, Finance Division Manager for the Customer Service Division is retiring on Friday, April 30. Responsible for Utility Billing and managing Food and Beverage, Transient Occupancy Tax, and Business License collections, Pat has been critical to ensuring the City accurately bills and collects revenue. Pat managed the City's migration, to new utility billing software, managed transitions in AFN and cable television, and dealt with water curtailment. We are losing an excellent employee with many years of institutional knowledge. Please stop by City Hall on Friday between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to wish Pat well in her next adventure.
Project report. We will send an updated project report out to the listserv as soon as we get the update done. A couple key people are out with spring colds, so we will get it done as soon as we can.
Thanks for all your efforts, particularly as we work through the proposed budget. Please let me know if you have questions.
Martha
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Volunteer Spirit
Tonight, I will be presenting the annual James M. Ragland "Volunteer Spirit" Community Service Award to the Ashland Food Project. I have to tell you that it was actually a bit of a struggle this year for the Council and me to select a winner, and I think you'll see why after you read a little about the exceptional nominees this year. Be sure to give each of these nominees (and the people who support them) a "pat on the back" and thank them for their service to our community.
Olaf Paul. Since 2005, Olaf has been the coordinator for the Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS), logging over 2,000 hours in his 4 years running that program and stepping into any volunteer position needed, including (but not limited to) crossing guard, foot patrol, assisting with the Festival of Lights and 4th of July activities, delivering interdepartmental mail, District Attorney courier, vacation house check, and regular VIPS office duties.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). The OLLI program at SOU is run largely by volunteers and has been providing public education courses since 1993. They also partner with other local institution such as the Wildlife Forensics Laboratory, Jackson County Library Service, and ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum to provide educational events.
Dr. Robert Cox. Dr. Cox has been volunteering for 15 years with the Forensics Lab and for 17 years with the Ashland Senior Center. At the forensics lab, Dr. Cox works to assist the regular employees by creating the background data necessary for those who testify in court. At the Senior Center, he helps with the meals programs, and teaches basic computer skills to seniors.
Michael Hersh. Michael volunteers with a wide variety of groups including: The Oregon Shakespeare Festival, the Tudor Guild, Meals on Wheels, the Ashland Police Department, ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum, and the Southern Oregon Repertory Singers.
Ballet Rogue's "Ballet in the Park". The Ballet in the Park program provides free ballet performances every summer in Lithia Park.
Ashland High School's ASPIRE Program. The ASPIRE program helps students value learning, gain access to education and vocational training beyond high school, and provides mentoring and resources about education and financial aid. They have helped the rate of graduating Ashland High School students going on to two or four year colleges go from 62% to 87%.
Tim Church. Tim helps at the Recycle Center. While on duty at the Recycle Center, Tim brings adoptable dogs, giving the dogs both an opportunity for socialization and the possibility of finding a loving permanent home.
Ashland St. Vincent de Paul Society. The Ashland Volunteers with the St. Vincent de Paul Society assist the needy with emergency utility payments, food, clothing, and prescription drugs. They do not offer direct cash, but instead, do the legwork of intervening with landlords, utility companies, etc. Last year the eleven Ashland/Talent volunteers responded to 587 calls for assistance.
James Matteson II. Jim was in the Rotary Club of Ashland since moving here in 1980. Over the years he served as Rotary president, district governor, and secretary-treasurer as well as trustee for the Ashland Rotary Foundation. He also served as the chair of the 4th of July Parade, and was on the Chamber Board for my years. From 1990-1997 Jim and his wife, Betty, acted as Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus at the Festival of Lights. Jim was also an OSF volunteer, and a member of the Elks Club of Ashland. Jim, sadly, passed away in March of this year.
James M. Ragland "Volunteer Spirit" Community Service Award 2010 given to:
The Ashland Food Project. This reliable, easy, door-to-door food collection program provides a steady supply of food to both Ashland and Talent "free food" programs. Once every two months, on the second Saturday of the month, neighborhood volunteers with the project collect food set out by households who have agreed to support, on a regular basis, local meal programs (including the Ashland Food Bank, Food Angels, Uncle Food's Diner, the Ashland Senior Center, the First Congregational United Church of Christ's Monday Morning Breakfast, and the Talent Food Pantry.) Last, but not least, this program strengthens the community as a whole as it requires face-to-face / neighbor-to-neighbor interaction with the volunteers and donating households.
Thank you to everyone who submitted nominations for this year's Ragland Award! And to all the nominees, thank you for your efforts. Keep up the good work!
Mayor Stromberg
Olaf Paul. Since 2005, Olaf has been the coordinator for the Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS), logging over 2,000 hours in his 4 years running that program and stepping into any volunteer position needed, including (but not limited to) crossing guard, foot patrol, assisting with the Festival of Lights and 4th of July activities, delivering interdepartmental mail, District Attorney courier, vacation house check, and regular VIPS office duties.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). The OLLI program at SOU is run largely by volunteers and has been providing public education courses since 1993. They also partner with other local institution such as the Wildlife Forensics Laboratory, Jackson County Library Service, and ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum to provide educational events.
Dr. Robert Cox. Dr. Cox has been volunteering for 15 years with the Forensics Lab and for 17 years with the Ashland Senior Center. At the forensics lab, Dr. Cox works to assist the regular employees by creating the background data necessary for those who testify in court. At the Senior Center, he helps with the meals programs, and teaches basic computer skills to seniors.
Michael Hersh. Michael volunteers with a wide variety of groups including: The Oregon Shakespeare Festival, the Tudor Guild, Meals on Wheels, the Ashland Police Department, ScienceWorks Hands-on Museum, and the Southern Oregon Repertory Singers.
Ballet Rogue's "Ballet in the Park". The Ballet in the Park program provides free ballet performances every summer in Lithia Park.
Ashland High School's ASPIRE Program. The ASPIRE program helps students value learning, gain access to education and vocational training beyond high school, and provides mentoring and resources about education and financial aid. They have helped the rate of graduating Ashland High School students going on to two or four year colleges go from 62% to 87%.
Tim Church. Tim helps at the Recycle Center. While on duty at the Recycle Center, Tim brings adoptable dogs, giving the dogs both an opportunity for socialization and the possibility of finding a loving permanent home.
Ashland St. Vincent de Paul Society. The Ashland Volunteers with the St. Vincent de Paul Society assist the needy with emergency utility payments, food, clothing, and prescription drugs. They do not offer direct cash, but instead, do the legwork of intervening with landlords, utility companies, etc. Last year the eleven Ashland/Talent volunteers responded to 587 calls for assistance.
James Matteson II. Jim was in the Rotary Club of Ashland since moving here in 1980. Over the years he served as Rotary president, district governor, and secretary-treasurer as well as trustee for the Ashland Rotary Foundation. He also served as the chair of the 4th of July Parade, and was on the Chamber Board for my years. From 1990-1997 Jim and his wife, Betty, acted as Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus at the Festival of Lights. Jim was also an OSF volunteer, and a member of the Elks Club of Ashland. Jim, sadly, passed away in March of this year.
James M. Ragland "Volunteer Spirit" Community Service Award 2010 given to:
The Ashland Food Project. This reliable, easy, door-to-door food collection program provides a steady supply of food to both Ashland and Talent "free food" programs. Once every two months, on the second Saturday of the month, neighborhood volunteers with the project collect food set out by households who have agreed to support, on a regular basis, local meal programs (including the Ashland Food Bank, Food Angels, Uncle Food's Diner, the Ashland Senior Center, the First Congregational United Church of Christ's Monday Morning Breakfast, and the Talent Food Pantry.) Last, but not least, this program strengthens the community as a whole as it requires face-to-face / neighbor-to-neighbor interaction with the volunteers and donating households.
Thank you to everyone who submitted nominations for this year's Ragland Award! And to all the nominees, thank you for your efforts. Keep up the good work!
Mayor Stromberg
Friday, April 9, 2010
Weekly Update, April 5 - 9, 2010
Council - It has been a few weeks since I have sent an update on the "miscellaneous" things that are going on. Here are some:
Ashland Independent Film Festival. AIFF is this weekend, and activity already seems likely around town for the weekend. Many of their showings are sold out, but if you're interested in attending, you can find the schedule here.
Proposed Budget. Budget Committee members should be receiving the paper copy of the Proposed Budget for FY 2010-2011 today. Finance staff will be bringing the document up on the website, so it should be available electronically very soon. The first meeting of the Budget Committee is April 19, 2010 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, and Lee Tuneberg and I will deliver the Budget Message. Please remember that until that meeting, members of the Budget Committee cannot talk to each other about the Proposed Budget. If you have questions, please let Lee know. Getting this document out every year is a huge amount of work by the Administrative Services staff and by all City Departments. Thank you to Lee, Bryn, and Melissa in particular for pulling the document together.
AFR Tour. Fire Department staff will be conducting a couple of tours of the first areas that will be treated as part of Ashland Forest Resiliency. One of the tours is already full, and the other is tentatively planned for May 8. I am wondering how many of Councilors might be interested in going along so that we can either notice the tour as a public meeting or schedule an additional tour. Can you please email John Karns if you would like to go on May 8. Also, this is a tentative date, and it may be rescheduled. John would like to hear from the public as well as Councilors, so for any blog readers, if you are interested, please email Chief Karns.
Land Use Permit for Calle and Comm. Dev. Parking Lot. The Parks Dept and the City have been working with merchants , the artisans, and restaurants on the Calle to allow additional sidewalk/Calle dining for the Sesame Kitchen. Last year's initial layout for Sesame caused some access issues for several businesses and also conflicted with the weekend Saturday Market booth space layout. The City and Parks offered a solution of extending the Saturday Market booth area into the existing parking lot of the City's Community Development building immediately west of the Calle on the opposite side of the creek. The proposed space in the Community Development parking lot replaces those lost to the Calle dining and adds 5 to 6 additional booth spaces for the weekend operations that happen each year from May through October. To do this, Parks and the City is submitting a joint application to the Planning Department for a modification to the existing conditional use permit that the Market currently operates under. Please contact Adam Hanks in Administration or Rachel Dials in Parks if you have any questions about this application.
Evening Event related to Sexual Assault and Abductions. On April 19 at 6:30 p.m., the Ashland Police Department and Southern Oregon University will host an evening presentation highlighting the importance that community involvement plays in stopping predators. The event will be in the Rogue River Room, and tickets are needed. I am sorry that this is the same evening as the Budget Committee. APD will also be hosting an officer training that afternoon. For those who aren't familiar with this topic, 19 yr old Brooke Wilberger was abducted on May 24th, 2004, in Corvallis, Oregon. In the first 7 days 1,139 tips were received by a task force that included Corvallis PD, Benton County SO, OSP, FBI, US Marshals and numerous other law enforcement agencies. This is a unique opportunity to hear from Brook's parents, Greg and Cammy Wilberger, as well as those who investigated and prosecuted this case. If you have any questions, please contact Chief Holderness.
Chamber Board Meeting. The Chamber of Commerce Board met Thursday. The Board asked a task force to send comments to the City Council for the record for the Croman Mill Master Plan. The Chamber Board also discussed issues related to the Fourth of July Parade, an upcoming seminar they are hosting for new businesses, and a beautification project that they are working with City staff on for their offices. The Chamber will be hosting a series of events the week of May 10 for Tourism Promotion Week, and they are coordinating their programs with the City as this is also Historic Preservation Week. For example, we will have a series of tours of historic houses that are now Bed & Breakfast Inns. Lastly, the Chamber just released the new "Living and Doing Business" guide, which is the publication they use for talking with new businesses and potential new residents. If you'd like a copy of that publication, please let Diana Shiplet know and we will request a few extra from the Chamber.
Oregon Business Development Commission. The Business Development Commission will hold their regular business meeting in Ashland. This Commission oversees the Oregon Business Development Department's activities. This state agency provides a variety of economic development support programs. The meeting will take place on the SOU campus, and I will get more details to you as we have them.
ODOT Open House. CLICK HERE for the flyer that ODOT recently sent to all Ashland addresses about the status of the Exit 14 and 19 bridge replacement projects. In the center of the flyer, you'll see how they are talking about the bicycle signal on the eastbound lane of Exit 14. They also had an open house Thursday evening.
Weekly Project Report. For many other City projects, the weekly project update can be found if you CLICK HERE.
I hope all of you are well, and please let me know if you have any questions.
Martha Bennett, City Administrator
Ashland Independent Film Festival. AIFF is this weekend, and activity already seems likely around town for the weekend. Many of their showings are sold out, but if you're interested in attending, you can find the schedule here.
Proposed Budget. Budget Committee members should be receiving the paper copy of the Proposed Budget for FY 2010-2011 today. Finance staff will be bringing the document up on the website, so it should be available electronically very soon. The first meeting of the Budget Committee is April 19, 2010 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, and Lee Tuneberg and I will deliver the Budget Message. Please remember that until that meeting, members of the Budget Committee cannot talk to each other about the Proposed Budget. If you have questions, please let Lee know. Getting this document out every year is a huge amount of work by the Administrative Services staff and by all City Departments. Thank you to Lee, Bryn, and Melissa in particular for pulling the document together.
AFR Tour. Fire Department staff will be conducting a couple of tours of the first areas that will be treated as part of Ashland Forest Resiliency. One of the tours is already full, and the other is tentatively planned for May 8. I am wondering how many of Councilors might be interested in going along so that we can either notice the tour as a public meeting or schedule an additional tour. Can you please email John Karns if you would like to go on May 8. Also, this is a tentative date, and it may be rescheduled. John would like to hear from the public as well as Councilors, so for any blog readers, if you are interested, please email Chief Karns.
Land Use Permit for Calle and Comm. Dev. Parking Lot. The Parks Dept and the City have been working with merchants , the artisans, and restaurants on the Calle to allow additional sidewalk/Calle dining for the Sesame Kitchen. Last year's initial layout for Sesame caused some access issues for several businesses and also conflicted with the weekend Saturday Market booth space layout. The City and Parks offered a solution of extending the Saturday Market booth area into the existing parking lot of the City's Community Development building immediately west of the Calle on the opposite side of the creek. The proposed space in the Community Development parking lot replaces those lost to the Calle dining and adds 5 to 6 additional booth spaces for the weekend operations that happen each year from May through October. To do this, Parks and the City is submitting a joint application to the Planning Department for a modification to the existing conditional use permit that the Market currently operates under. Please contact Adam Hanks in Administration or Rachel Dials in Parks if you have any questions about this application.
Evening Event related to Sexual Assault and Abductions. On April 19 at 6:30 p.m., the Ashland Police Department and Southern Oregon University will host an evening presentation highlighting the importance that community involvement plays in stopping predators. The event will be in the Rogue River Room, and tickets are needed. I am sorry that this is the same evening as the Budget Committee. APD will also be hosting an officer training that afternoon. For those who aren't familiar with this topic, 19 yr old Brooke Wilberger was abducted on May 24th, 2004, in Corvallis, Oregon. In the first 7 days 1,139 tips were received by a task force that included Corvallis PD, Benton County SO, OSP, FBI, US Marshals and numerous other law enforcement agencies. This is a unique opportunity to hear from Brook's parents, Greg and Cammy Wilberger, as well as those who investigated and prosecuted this case. If you have any questions, please contact Chief Holderness.
Chamber Board Meeting. The Chamber of Commerce Board met Thursday. The Board asked a task force to send comments to the City Council for the record for the Croman Mill Master Plan. The Chamber Board also discussed issues related to the Fourth of July Parade, an upcoming seminar they are hosting for new businesses, and a beautification project that they are working with City staff on for their offices. The Chamber will be hosting a series of events the week of May 10 for Tourism Promotion Week, and they are coordinating their programs with the City as this is also Historic Preservation Week. For example, we will have a series of tours of historic houses that are now Bed & Breakfast Inns. Lastly, the Chamber just released the new "Living and Doing Business" guide, which is the publication they use for talking with new businesses and potential new residents. If you'd like a copy of that publication, please let Diana Shiplet know and we will request a few extra from the Chamber.
Oregon Business Development Commission. The Business Development Commission will hold their regular business meeting in Ashland. This Commission oversees the Oregon Business Development Department's activities. This state agency provides a variety of economic development support programs. The meeting will take place on the SOU campus, and I will get more details to you as we have them.
ODOT Open House. CLICK HERE for the flyer that ODOT recently sent to all Ashland addresses about the status of the Exit 14 and 19 bridge replacement projects. In the center of the flyer, you'll see how they are talking about the bicycle signal on the eastbound lane of Exit 14. They also had an open house Thursday evening.
Weekly Project Report. For many other City projects, the weekly project update can be found if you CLICK HERE.
I hope all of you are well, and please let me know if you have any questions.
Martha Bennett, City Administrator
Thursday, March 25, 2010
A Quiet Spring Break
It's Spring Break week here in Ashland, which means quiet, quiet, and more quiet. Honestly, it's been nice to get some of the filing and desk cleaning jobs done that have been put off since, well, last spring break. There are a few bits of information you might find interesting:
Jackson County Waste Diversion Days
Properly dispose of household paints and chemicals
Free Latex Paint Drop-off Event
April 30 & May 1, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Drop off your household latex paints for proper disposal. Remember: household latex paints only; this event is not open to business waste or oil based paints. Need some paint? Check out the free re-use table. Jackson County Drop-off sites:
Rogue Disposal & Recycling transfer station, 8001 Table Rock Road, White City, 779-4161, www.RogueDisposal.com
Recology Ashland Sanitary Service transfer station, 3000 N. Valley View Road, Ashland, 482-1471, www.recologyashlandsanitaryservice.com
Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off Event
May 7-8, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Bring your household hazardous waste to Rogue Disposal Transfer Station, 8001 Table Rock Road. Cost is $5.00 per vehicle. Trade in your mercury thermometer for a digital one at no charge. Acceptable items include: cleaning supplies, batteries, pool and spa chemicals, lead and oil-based paint, paint removers, wood preservatives and light ballasts.
Do NOT bring: fluorescent bulbs, medical or biological waste, explosives, radioactive materials, ammunition, commercial or industrial waste, asbestos, 55 gallon drums, propane tanks, fire extinguishers or other metal tanks. For more information, contact Rogue Disposal at 541-779-4161 or www.RogueDisposal.com.
Thanks to Paige Prewett of the Jackson County SMARTWorks & Jackson County Recycling Partnership for the Waste Diversion Days information.
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Facebook
Did you know you can now follow the City of Ashland on Facebook? If your Facebook homepage is how you get your daily dose of news, you can find City of Ashland news there too. Just search for 'City of Ashland' while on Facebook, or use the link on the City's homepage. We'll soon have Twitter up and running too!
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Economic Development
I've had the pleasure of participating in the Economic Development Strategy work, specifically with the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC). I must say this has been an interesting process thus far. Both the TAC and the Policy Committee have worked very hard to honestly understand both the good and the bad in Ashland's economy. Currently, both groups are working in tandem on creating a definition of Economic Development for Ashland and a Vision Statement for the future of Ashland's economy. They are also just beginning to figure out how to take the leap between what the vision Ashland's future economy and what we (community members, city government, and regional partners) need to do (or not do) to get to that vision. If you have any interest in learning more about the project, check out the economic strategy webpage and all the links on the left-side of the page. If you've got comments or questions on the process contact Councilor Russ Silbiger, russ@council.ashland.or.us, Councilor Kate Jackson kate@council.ashland.or.us or staff member Adam Hanks, hanksa@ashland.or.us.
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Hope your Spring Break is wonderful!
Jackson County Waste Diversion Days
Properly dispose of household paints and chemicals
Free Latex Paint Drop-off Event
April 30 & May 1, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Drop off your household latex paints for proper disposal. Remember: household latex paints only; this event is not open to business waste or oil based paints. Need some paint? Check out the free re-use table. Jackson County Drop-off sites:
Rogue Disposal & Recycling transfer station, 8001 Table Rock Road, White City, 779-4161, www.RogueDisposal.com
Recology Ashland Sanitary Service transfer station, 3000 N. Valley View Road, Ashland, 482-1471, www.recologyashlandsanitaryservice.com
Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off Event
May 7-8, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Bring your household hazardous waste to Rogue Disposal Transfer Station, 8001 Table Rock Road. Cost is $5.00 per vehicle. Trade in your mercury thermometer for a digital one at no charge. Acceptable items include: cleaning supplies, batteries, pool and spa chemicals, lead and oil-based paint, paint removers, wood preservatives and light ballasts.
Do NOT bring: fluorescent bulbs, medical or biological waste, explosives, radioactive materials, ammunition, commercial or industrial waste, asbestos, 55 gallon drums, propane tanks, fire extinguishers or other metal tanks. For more information, contact Rogue Disposal at 541-779-4161 or www.RogueDisposal.com.
Thanks to Paige Prewett of the Jackson County SMARTWorks & Jackson County Recycling Partnership for the Waste Diversion Days information.
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Did you know you can now follow the City of Ashland on Facebook? If your Facebook homepage is how you get your daily dose of news, you can find City of Ashland news there too. Just search for 'City of Ashland' while on Facebook, or use the link on the City's homepage. We'll soon have Twitter up and running too!
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Economic Development
I've had the pleasure of participating in the Economic Development Strategy work, specifically with the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC). I must say this has been an interesting process thus far. Both the TAC and the Policy Committee have worked very hard to honestly understand both the good and the bad in Ashland's economy. Currently, both groups are working in tandem on creating a definition of Economic Development for Ashland and a Vision Statement for the future of Ashland's economy. They are also just beginning to figure out how to take the leap between what the vision Ashland's future economy and what we (community members, city government, and regional partners) need to do (or not do) to get to that vision. If you have any interest in learning more about the project, check out the economic strategy webpage and all the links on the left-side of the page. If you've got comments or questions on the process contact Councilor Russ Silbiger, russ@council.ashland.or.us, Councilor Kate Jackson kate@council.ashland.or.us or staff member Adam Hanks, hanksa@ashland.or.us.
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Hope your Spring Break is wonderful!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
March 11, 2010
Let Us Know. We've just activated a new feature on our website, called, "Let Us Know." If you spot things the City needs to be aware of like; clogged storm drains, flickering street lights, graffiti, or damaged playground equipment just go to the link on our website (www.ashland.or.us) or click here to let us know!
Food Bank 2009 Report. A few days ago we received a copy of the Ashland Emergency Food Bank (AEFB) 2009 President's Report. It had some interesting facts I think you should know about. From January 2007 to January 2009, the number of individuals served increased by 145% and from January 2009 to December 2009 that number increased another 46%. By December of 2009, the AEFB has provided a 5-7 day supply of food to a record high 1,479 children and adults.
Many thanks to the people and organizations who donated this year, including, but not certainly not limited to, numerous local churches, The Olde Bagley Orchard in Talent, the Ashland Rotary Club (who created gardens to provide fresh vegetables), the Ashland Food Project, the Ashland Community Food Store (Co-Op), the Ashland Daily Tidings, Cow Creek Umpqua Indian Foundation, City of Ashland Employees, and the Chaney Family Foundations. In 2009, the AEFB received a total of 188,565 pounds of food. There were over 395 individual volunteers who provided 6,906 hours of community service to the AEFB.
Personally, I think these are amazing statistics. I see both that this recession is an especially challenging time for many people and that, in quite an amazing way, Ashland (and the Rogue Valley) is a very generous community. If you want to volunteer or donate either cash or food to the Ashland Emergency Food Bank, call them at 541-488-9544 or stop by the food bank itself at 2200 Ashland Street.
Food Bank 2009 Report. A few days ago we received a copy of the Ashland Emergency Food Bank (AEFB) 2009 President's Report. It had some interesting facts I think you should know about. From January 2007 to January 2009, the number of individuals served increased by 145% and from January 2009 to December 2009 that number increased another 46%. By December of 2009, the AEFB has provided a 5-7 day supply of food to a record high 1,479 children and adults.
Many thanks to the people and organizations who donated this year, including, but not certainly not limited to, numerous local churches, The Olde Bagley Orchard in Talent, the Ashland Rotary Club (who created gardens to provide fresh vegetables), the Ashland Food Project, the Ashland Community Food Store (Co-Op), the Ashland Daily Tidings, Cow Creek Umpqua Indian Foundation, City of Ashland Employees, and the Chaney Family Foundations. In 2009, the AEFB received a total of 188,565 pounds of food. There were over 395 individual volunteers who provided 6,906 hours of community service to the AEFB.
Personally, I think these are amazing statistics. I see both that this recession is an especially challenging time for many people and that, in quite an amazing way, Ashland (and the Rogue Valley) is a very generous community. If you want to volunteer or donate either cash or food to the Ashland Emergency Food Bank, call them at 541-488-9544 or stop by the food bank itself at 2200 Ashland Street.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Weekly Update March 8 - 12, 2010
In addition to some unusually prominent law enforcement issues this week, Ashland is busier with OSF's opening last weekend. There are more visitors in town, including a number of school groups. Here are some other happenings:
Ruling on Park Street Condominium Conversion Case. The Oregon Court of Appeals affirmed the ruling of Judge Harris on the Park Street Condominium Case without opinion. When the Court does this (called an "AWOP" for short), they do not issue a written opinion. Click here for a copy of the decision and a copy of Judge Harris's original ruling for your information.
Media on Flashing Beacons. I am sure you have all noticed that the television and radio stations have picked up the story about the failure of two of the flashing beacons on Siskiyou Boulevard. Public Works staff are working on a solution for these beacons, which currently are solar powered. The short answer for why they don't function is that the sun doesn't shine long enough on a winter day to charge the battery. While we had hoped not to have to hard wire these beacons (so they could be moved in the future if that was appropriate), public works staff are working on wiring them in directly. We are going to install them as soon as we can and then try to get the manufacturer to share the costs of the wiring (as the solar panels are supposed to work). If you have any questions, please contact Mike Faught, 541-488-5587, directly.
Parks Integrated Pest Management Policy. During the week of March 8, Parks & Recreation Staff will be reviewing a draft of a new Integrated Pesticide Management Policy with the committee that the Parks and Recreation Commission appointed to work on this issue. If the committee approves, Parks & Recreation will release this draft and they plan to hold a public meeting to receive comment on March 31. Once the draft is generally available, I'll get it to you, and I'll get you details on the meeting time and location.
Mount Ashland Ski Area Expansion Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement. On Friday, I got an email that said the Notice of Intent on the Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (DSEIS) was actually published in the Federal Register on Wednesday, instead of on March 9, 2010 as I was originally told by the Forest Service. I attempted to search the Federal Register today, but couldn't find the notice. I will keep you posted, and staff will evaluate the information once it's available to develop a recommendation about whether we should comment. Remember that this will address only three issues (The Pacific Fisher and two mapping issues).
I think that's about all of the exceptional news there is to report. I will post a Project Report during the week.
Thanks
Martha
Ruling on Park Street Condominium Conversion Case. The Oregon Court of Appeals affirmed the ruling of Judge Harris on the Park Street Condominium Case without opinion. When the Court does this (called an "AWOP" for short), they do not issue a written opinion. Click here for a copy of the decision and a copy of Judge Harris's original ruling for your information.
Media on Flashing Beacons. I am sure you have all noticed that the television and radio stations have picked up the story about the failure of two of the flashing beacons on Siskiyou Boulevard. Public Works staff are working on a solution for these beacons, which currently are solar powered. The short answer for why they don't function is that the sun doesn't shine long enough on a winter day to charge the battery. While we had hoped not to have to hard wire these beacons (so they could be moved in the future if that was appropriate), public works staff are working on wiring them in directly. We are going to install them as soon as we can and then try to get the manufacturer to share the costs of the wiring (as the solar panels are supposed to work). If you have any questions, please contact Mike Faught, 541-488-5587, directly.
Parks Integrated Pest Management Policy. During the week of March 8, Parks & Recreation Staff will be reviewing a draft of a new Integrated Pesticide Management Policy with the committee that the Parks and Recreation Commission appointed to work on this issue. If the committee approves, Parks & Recreation will release this draft and they plan to hold a public meeting to receive comment on March 31. Once the draft is generally available, I'll get it to you, and I'll get you details on the meeting time and location.
Mount Ashland Ski Area Expansion Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement. On Friday, I got an email that said the Notice of Intent on the Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (DSEIS) was actually published in the Federal Register on Wednesday, instead of on March 9, 2010 as I was originally told by the Forest Service. I attempted to search the Federal Register today, but couldn't find the notice. I will keep you posted, and staff will evaluate the information once it's available to develop a recommendation about whether we should comment. Remember that this will address only three issues (The Pacific Fisher and two mapping issues).
I think that's about all of the exceptional news there is to report. I will post a Project Report during the week.
Thanks
Martha
Thursday, March 4, 2010
An Exciting Time of Year
I don't know about you, but this is my favorite time of the year in Ashland. With OSF opening (to rave reviews, I might add) the sidewalks are beginning to fill once again with the extra energy of visitors and friends. I also love that all the early flowers and blooming trees are bright reminders that Spring is just around the corner. Thank you to the Parks Department and all the residents and business owners who have added colorful splashes of living color to our already beautiful city.
It really is an exciting time of year.
This weekend Ashland will be celebrating International Women's Day (thanks to the Daily Tidings for the great article.) Mayor Stromberg has been a strong supporter of this event for the past couple of years, and he encourages all women, and the men who know they are incredible, to attend.
The City currently has quite a few vacancies or terms which are set to expire for board, commission, and committee positions. If you are interested in becoming a member of one of our exciting groups, we encourage you to apply. The full vacancy list as well as application forms can be found here. The deadline for our annual process is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 19, 2010.
Application forms for the City's Economic and Cultural Development Grants for FY 2010-11 are currently available. Click here for more information and the application forms. Completed applications are due by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, March 22, 2010.
It really is an exciting time of year.
This weekend Ashland will be celebrating International Women's Day (thanks to the Daily Tidings for the great article.) Mayor Stromberg has been a strong supporter of this event for the past couple of years, and he encourages all women, and the men who know they are incredible, to attend.
The City currently has quite a few vacancies or terms which are set to expire for board, commission, and committee positions. If you are interested in becoming a member of one of our exciting groups, we encourage you to apply. The full vacancy list as well as application forms can be found here. The deadline for our annual process is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 19, 2010.
Application forms for the City's Economic and Cultural Development Grants for FY 2010-11 are currently available. Click here for more information and the application forms. Completed applications are due by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, March 22, 2010.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Weekly Update, March 1 - 7
There has been a lot going on around the City this week. Here are some of the projects.
New Classes at Middle School. The Police Department has begun a couple of classes at Ashland Middle School in the health department. One class is on binge drinking generally. The other one is on sexual assault. The class has been put together by officers Carrie Hull, Terri DiSilva, and Mike Vanderlip. We have had a tremendous amount of help as well from the nurses from SANE in developing the curriculum. (I believe the classes are split by gender) According to Police Chief Terry Holderness, "the kids were really interested and wanted more time on each subject. Due to the subject matter flyers went home to all of the parents who were told their child did not have to attend and could and leave at any time. So far we have not had anyone pulled from or leave the class. As we expected we did get two reports of problematic sexual touching that we are looking into." If you have any questions about these classes or if you hear any feedback from parents and citizens, please let Terry know so we can learn as we develop this program.
More from the Police Department. Sergeant Josh Moulin and Detective Brandon Bloomfield from the Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force are presenting an Internet Safety presentation at the Ashland Middle School on Thursday, March 11th at 6:30 pm. Everyone is encouraged to attend as they will be providing info you may find helpful on investigations and/or be able to pass on to parents when responding to calls. The flyer that is going out to All Ashland Middle School parents can be found here. Please contact Chief Holderness if you have any questions.
Lithia Fountains. Our Water Crew will be working on the Lithia Fountain this week starting Monday. We continue to have drainage problems with the fountain. The maintenance work isn't expensive, but you may get some questions about why the fountain isn't working. It will probably need to be an annual occurance.
Parking Limits Begin Again. You may have seen an email from the Street Department, but the 4 hour time limits on parking in the City's surface parking lots are in place again. When the ice rink is re-converted to a parking lot, the four-hour time limits will be re-imposed on Winburn Way as well.
Update on RPS. The RPS Policy Committee will hold a special meeting to talk with Richard Whitman, the DLCD Director on March 11 at 9:30 at RVCOG offices in Central Point. He wishes to address issues that may become important to this last public hearings phase of the RPS process, and to answer any local concerns he can. Additionally, staff is working on scheduling a time for Council to provide feedback to Jackson County as itit conducts hearings on RPS. This will likely be in April or early May and will likely happen at a regular City Council meeting.
Fire Department Ride Alongs. Chief Karns has invited all Councilors to Ride along with the Fire Department for all or part of a regular work shift. Councilor Voisin has already taken him up on the offer and will be spending time with the crews on July 4. If any of the rest of the Council want to work all or part of a shift, please talk to John Karns directly. It's a great experience even if you are somewhat bleary eyed the next day.
Martha
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Council Goals
At Tuesday's meeting, the City Council approved their 12 - 24 month list of goals. Thanks to the wide variety of input submitted in August and September of 2009, the Council was able to add to, refine, and clarify quite a few of the goal approved last year. Thank you, again, to everyone who took the time to submit their feedback regarding the goals.
As you can see below, Council has set some challenging and exciting goals for itself:
*****************
2010-2011 CITY COUNCIL GOALS
OVERVIEW
The City Council has set goals for the next 12 to 24 months to continue Ashland’s history as a community that focuses on sustaining itself and its people. To us, sustainability means using, developing and protecting resources at a rate and in a manner that enables people to meet their current needs and also provides that future generations can meet their own needs. The City of Ashland has a responsibility towards sustainability in six primary areas:
o Economy
o Environment
o Social Equity
o Municipal Organization
o Public Facilities
o Partnerships
ECONOMY
Develop and implement a comprehensive economic development strategy for the purpose of:
o Diversifying the economic base of the community
o Supporting creation and growth of businesses that use and provide local and regional products
o Increasing the number of family-wage jobs in the community
o Leveraging the strengths of Ashland’s tourism and repeat visitors
Develop an implementing strategy for funding infrastructure and public facilities for economic development projects.
Increase the clarity, responsiveness, and certainty of the development process.
ENVIRONMENT
Develop an integrated land use and transportation plan to increase the viability of transit, bicycles, walking and other alternative modes of transportation; reduce per capita automobile vehicle miles traveled; provide safe walking and bicycling routes to home, work, shopping and schools; implement environmentally responsible design standards, and minimize new automobile-related infrastructure.
Adopt an integrated Water Master Plan that addresses long-term water supply including climate change issues, security and redundancy, watershed health, conservation and reuse, and stream health.
Implement specific capital projects and operational programs to ensure that City facilities and operations are a model of efficient use of water, energy, land, and other key resources.
Adopt land use codes, building codes, green building standards, and fee structures that creates strong incentives for new development that is energy, water, and land efficient and supports a multi-modal transportation system.
Develop a strategy to use conservation and local renewable sources to meet Tier 2 power demands.
Plan for low-water years by:
o Implementing a public information and technical assistance campaign that encourages summer time conservation.
o Consider the options for a summer time surcharge to encourage efficient irrigation practices prior to June 1, 2010.
SOCIAL EQUITY
Complete the sale of a portion of the Clay Street Property to Parks and Recreation and decide whether to develop or sell the remaining land. *This goal was modified
Facilitate efforts to address homelessness by:
o Replacing services previously provided by ICCA.
o Developing an emergency shelter for minors.
o Better connect services available in Jackson County to Ashland's homeless.
o Ensure Jackson County's 10 Year Plan addresses the specific issues faced in Ashland.
ORGANIZATION
Develop plan for fiscal stability, manage costs, prioritize services, and insure key revenue streams for the City and Parks & Recreation.
Address issues the stability of the organization including employee recruitment and retention; succession planning; and effective and increased use of citizen volunteers.
PUBLIC FACILITIES
Develop a plan to replace Fire Station #2.
Define a long term strategy for the Ashland Fiber Network that improves its financial viability, provides high quality services to residents, and promotes healthy economic development.
PARTNERSHIPS
Foster strong collaboration of the local community, City, State and Federal leaders in efforts to improve the health of the Ashland watershed through reducing fire hazards and restoring forest health.
Advocate for the long-term viability of rail service to and through Ashland and encourage the use of rail through land use, transportation, and economic development planning.
*************************
So, what do you think about the adopted goals?
As you can see below, Council has set some challenging and exciting goals for itself:
*****************
2010-2011 CITY COUNCIL GOALS
OVERVIEW
The City Council has set goals for the next 12 to 24 months to continue Ashland’s history as a community that focuses on sustaining itself and its people. To us, sustainability means using, developing and protecting resources at a rate and in a manner that enables people to meet their current needs and also provides that future generations can meet their own needs. The City of Ashland has a responsibility towards sustainability in six primary areas:
o Economy
o Environment
o Social Equity
o Municipal Organization
o Public Facilities
o Partnerships
ECONOMY
Develop and implement a comprehensive economic development strategy for the purpose of:
o Diversifying the economic base of the community
o Supporting creation and growth of businesses that use and provide local and regional products
o Increasing the number of family-wage jobs in the community
o Leveraging the strengths of Ashland’s tourism and repeat visitors
Develop an implementing strategy for funding infrastructure and public facilities for economic development projects.
Increase the clarity, responsiveness, and certainty of the development process.
ENVIRONMENT
Develop an integrated land use and transportation plan to increase the viability of transit, bicycles, walking and other alternative modes of transportation; reduce per capita automobile vehicle miles traveled; provide safe walking and bicycling routes to home, work, shopping and schools; implement environmentally responsible design standards, and minimize new automobile-related infrastructure.
Adopt an integrated Water Master Plan that addresses long-term water supply including climate change issues, security and redundancy, watershed health, conservation and reuse, and stream health.
Implement specific capital projects and operational programs to ensure that City facilities and operations are a model of efficient use of water, energy, land, and other key resources.
Adopt land use codes, building codes, green building standards, and fee structures that creates strong incentives for new development that is energy, water, and land efficient and supports a multi-modal transportation system.
Develop a strategy to use conservation and local renewable sources to meet Tier 2 power demands.
Plan for low-water years by:
o Implementing a public information and technical assistance campaign that encourages summer time conservation.
o Consider the options for a summer time surcharge to encourage efficient irrigation practices prior to June 1, 2010.
SOCIAL EQUITY
Complete the sale of a portion of the Clay Street Property to Parks and Recreation and decide whether to develop or sell the remaining land. *This goal was modified
Facilitate efforts to address homelessness by:
o Replacing services previously provided by ICCA.
o Developing an emergency shelter for minors.
o Better connect services available in Jackson County to Ashland's homeless.
o Ensure Jackson County's 10 Year Plan addresses the specific issues faced in Ashland.
ORGANIZATION
Develop plan for fiscal stability, manage costs, prioritize services, and insure key revenue streams for the City and Parks & Recreation.
Address issues the stability of the organization including employee recruitment and retention; succession planning; and effective and increased use of citizen volunteers.
PUBLIC FACILITIES
Develop a plan to replace Fire Station #2.
Define a long term strategy for the Ashland Fiber Network that improves its financial viability, provides high quality services to residents, and promotes healthy economic development.
PARTNERSHIPS
Foster strong collaboration of the local community, City, State and Federal leaders in efforts to improve the health of the Ashland watershed through reducing fire hazards and restoring forest health.
Advocate for the long-term viability of rail service to and through Ashland and encourage the use of rail through land use, transportation, and economic development planning.
*************************
So, what do you think about the adopted goals?
Monday, February 1, 2010
2010 Census
The U. S. Constitution mandates a Census of the population every 10 years in order to achieve an accurate assessment of the number and location of people in each state. The Census population counts determine the number of seats your state occupies in the U. S. House of Representatives. Accurate counts are integral to ensuring fair and equitable representation in Congress.
Census counts also determine the amount of state and federal funding communities receive for the ten year period between counts. The federal government uses the census numbers to allocate $400 billion each year to local, state, and tribal governments to fund infrastructure and services such as; hospitals, schools, senior centers, bridges, sidewalks, roads, emergency services, social services, and community development.
Since 2000, the City of Ashland has received over $ 2.2 million in Community Development Block Grant funds, has shared in over $1.2 Million a year in public works and infrastructure funding through the Medford MPO, and received a variety of funds to support programs that provide services for seniors and other vulnerable populations. All due to the data provided through the Census.
The goal of the decennial Census is to count everybody, count them only once, and count them in the right place. Census data is an important tool for historians, genealogists, demographers, policy-makers, and countless others. Data gathered during census counts is used to write grant applications, advocate for causes, and to recognize and analyze trends in demographic and socio-economic developments to provide a basis for future planning. Census data enables researchers to trace family trees, it provides important information about socio-economic change over time, and is a means for recording the statistical plight of the common American for perpetuity.
With just ten minutes of your time, answering ten questions will guarantee that you and your family; receive fair and equitable representation in the democratic process, assure that a fair apportionment of your tax dollars go to support necessary services in your community, and to ensure your place in the history of America for posterity.
For more information about the 2010 Census, please click here.
Census counts also determine the amount of state and federal funding communities receive for the ten year period between counts. The federal government uses the census numbers to allocate $400 billion each year to local, state, and tribal governments to fund infrastructure and services such as; hospitals, schools, senior centers, bridges, sidewalks, roads, emergency services, social services, and community development.
Since 2000, the City of Ashland has received over $ 2.2 million in Community Development Block Grant funds, has shared in over $1.2 Million a year in public works and infrastructure funding through the Medford MPO, and received a variety of funds to support programs that provide services for seniors and other vulnerable populations. All due to the data provided through the Census.
The goal of the decennial Census is to count everybody, count them only once, and count them in the right place. Census data is an important tool for historians, genealogists, demographers, policy-makers, and countless others. Data gathered during census counts is used to write grant applications, advocate for causes, and to recognize and analyze trends in demographic and socio-economic developments to provide a basis for future planning. Census data enables researchers to trace family trees, it provides important information about socio-economic change over time, and is a means for recording the statistical plight of the common American for perpetuity.
With just ten minutes of your time, answering ten questions will guarantee that you and your family; receive fair and equitable representation in the democratic process, assure that a fair apportionment of your tax dollars go to support necessary services in your community, and to ensure your place in the history of America for posterity.
For more information about the 2010 Census, please click here.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Keeping extra busy with training, recruitments, and goal setting
It has been a busy few weeks here at the City:
Emergency Training
Many city staff, along with staff from SOU and the City of Medford, have been participating in a weekly training regarding the National Incident Management System (NIMS). NIMS is the system put in place by the Federal Government to ensure local entities are able, as much as their resources allow, to handle emergencies.
In the NIMS training we have been learning about Incident Command leadership structure, required Federal forms, common terminology, and how to pre-plan (as much as it is ever possible) for the types of emergencies most likely to affect our city (such as; fire, flood, and earthquake.) In light of the tragedy currently happening in Haiti, the training has taken on an extra bit of timeliness for those of us participating.
IT Director
Last Thursday and Friday we interviewed the top five candidates for Information Technology Director. The general consensus amongst those who were involved was that the process was good, the candidates were excellent, and that no matter what the final decision is we will end up with a very good IT Director. We hope to announce the name of the new director in the next couple of weeks. A special thanks especially to everyone who participated in the process.
Goal Setting
Tomorrow, the City Council will have a special meeting regarding goal setting. They will review the current list of Council Goals and make any necessary modifications, additions or subtractions. Thank you to everyone who gave feedback on the goals, vision and values during our August and September public feedback time. Your input has already proven to be very helpful to the Council as they entire into the annual goal setting process. For those who have not yet taken a peek at the responses from our community, they can all be found here.
Emergency Training
Many city staff, along with staff from SOU and the City of Medford, have been participating in a weekly training regarding the National Incident Management System (NIMS). NIMS is the system put in place by the Federal Government to ensure local entities are able, as much as their resources allow, to handle emergencies.
In the NIMS training we have been learning about Incident Command leadership structure, required Federal forms, common terminology, and how to pre-plan (as much as it is ever possible) for the types of emergencies most likely to affect our city (such as; fire, flood, and earthquake.) In light of the tragedy currently happening in Haiti, the training has taken on an extra bit of timeliness for those of us participating.
IT Director
Last Thursday and Friday we interviewed the top five candidates for Information Technology Director. The general consensus amongst those who were involved was that the process was good, the candidates were excellent, and that no matter what the final decision is we will end up with a very good IT Director. We hope to announce the name of the new director in the next couple of weeks. A special thanks especially to everyone who participated in the process.
Goal Setting
Tomorrow, the City Council will have a special meeting regarding goal setting. They will review the current list of Council Goals and make any necessary modifications, additions or subtractions. Thank you to everyone who gave feedback on the goals, vision and values during our August and September public feedback time. Your input has already proven to be very helpful to the Council as they entire into the annual goal setting process. For those who have not yet taken a peek at the responses from our community, they can all be found here.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Mayor's State of the City Speech
For those of you who were unable to attend Tuesday's City Council meeting, here is the written text of Mayor Stromberg's State of the City 2010 speech.
Thanks to RVTV, you may also view the speech by clicking on the January 5 council meeting video, found here.
Thanks to RVTV, you may also view the speech by clicking on the January 5 council meeting video, found here.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
2010 Preview
Hope you all are enjoying a wonderful start to the New Year. Here in the City Administration office, 2010 is already looking to be a busy year. We thought you'd like to have a peek at just a small hand-full of the projects we will be working on in the coming year:
IT Director. We are in the tail end of the recruitment process for hiring a new IT Director. On Thursday, January 14, 2010 we will be holding a Candidate Reception & Open House. The reception will be held from 5:00 - 6:00 p.m., in the City Council Chambers located at 1175 East Main Street. Keep your eye out here for more information about the candidates.
Economic Development. The economic development process officially kicked off in December and we expect it will continue for the rest of the year. In April or May we will begin the public outreach and input process based on the work started at the Committee level. The goal is to have projects and/or policies ready for approval and implementation, by the City government, the business community, and other key stakeholders, toward the end of the year.
2010 Census. The 2010 Census kicks off in March. Residents can expect to receive letters in early March notifying them that the census forms will arrive between March 15 and 17. For more information visit www.census.gov.
Social Media. Along with this blog, we are taking our first steps into the vibrant (and only slightly scary) world of social media. Look for us soon on Facebook and Twitter!
There are many other exciting topics, projects, and challenges we will be working this year, so keep your eyes on this blog or the City's website for more details!
Let the 2010 excitement begin!
********************
A quick reminder:
On Saturday, January 9th, the Ashland Boy Scouts, Troop 112, will be joining the Ashland Host Lion's Club in the annual Christmas Tree Recycle Day. Be sure to place your tree on the curb by Friday January 8th, and the scouts will pick up and shred it for use on City Parks and Recreation trails. Many thanks to the Boy Scouts and the Lion's Club for their hard work on this project, those of us who frequent the City trails appreciate the help in keeping them well maintained.
IT Director. We are in the tail end of the recruitment process for hiring a new IT Director. On Thursday, January 14, 2010 we will be holding a Candidate Reception & Open House. The reception will be held from 5:00 - 6:00 p.m., in the City Council Chambers located at 1175 East Main Street. Keep your eye out here for more information about the candidates.
Economic Development. The economic development process officially kicked off in December and we expect it will continue for the rest of the year. In April or May we will begin the public outreach and input process based on the work started at the Committee level. The goal is to have projects and/or policies ready for approval and implementation, by the City government, the business community, and other key stakeholders, toward the end of the year.
2010 Census. The 2010 Census kicks off in March. Residents can expect to receive letters in early March notifying them that the census forms will arrive between March 15 and 17. For more information visit www.census.gov.
Social Media. Along with this blog, we are taking our first steps into the vibrant (and only slightly scary) world of social media. Look for us soon on Facebook and Twitter!
There are many other exciting topics, projects, and challenges we will be working this year, so keep your eyes on this blog or the City's website for more details!
Let the 2010 excitement begin!
********************
A quick reminder:
On Saturday, January 9th, the Ashland Boy Scouts, Troop 112, will be joining the Ashland Host Lion's Club in the annual Christmas Tree Recycle Day. Be sure to place your tree on the curb by Friday January 8th, and the scouts will pick up and shred it for use on City Parks and Recreation trails. Many thanks to the Boy Scouts and the Lion's Club for their hard work on this project, those of us who frequent the City trails appreciate the help in keeping them well maintained.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
The Mayor's "Christmas Message" for 2009
Christmas is a religious holiday. It's also a government holiday in this land of religious freedom and separation of church and state. And it's a big commercial event in which any spiritual or religious meaning tends to get swamped in stuff. In this context how can the Mayor's "Christmas Message" be anything more than a perfunctory formality - I have to write it; you don't have to read it?
Well, let's start with this...My religious up-bringing was determined by a legal contract. My Swedish Methodist father somehow managed to fall in love with my Italian Catholic mother and the only way she could continue to receive the sacraments was for them to sign an agreement that their children would be raised Catholic.
So my brother and I went to Mass every Sunday and Catechism on Saturdays but with no religious or spiritual guidance at home...ever. Once, the nuns encouraged me to bring my father into the fold and I discovered how hard it had been for him to sign that agreement. (His father, two uncles and two brothers were all Methodist ministers.)
Christmases, which we celebrated with my mother's family on Christmas Eve, were noisy marathons of discussion and arguments, amid large volumes of food and presents. Around hour three an in-law would make predictably offensive comments about the Pope and eventually a contingent would troop off to Midnight Mass. It was food, family and stuff - no Baby Jesus, Wise Men, light in the darkness...
But one year someone brought a stranger, a person not well known to any of us but stranded for the holiday. I can't remember who it was but that person, by his or her mere presence, transformed the event. Instead of just blending in, they became the center of interest. My disputant relatives became curious, sensitive, and generous with their attention. The happening was so successful it was repeated the next year and soon was an unofficial part of our Christmases and clearly the most meaningful for everyone.
I often wondered how my intense, argumentative relatives found such tenderness for people they didn't even know. And it was a quiet Christmas miracle that this brought out the finest qualities in our guests, some of whom over the years became part of the family. In reflecting back, I wonder if it had to do with my mother's family being immigrants who knew first hand what it was like to be far from home in an unfamiliar place.
This was how 'the spirit' crept into my Christmas. There was no sermon, no doctrinal or Constitutional dispute; and the food and gifts became a setting for something very human, real and touching. I think all of us here in Ashland, in our compassionate and generous instincts, especially at this time of year, can find each other and help bind our community together.
And so - in this particular sense - may I wish you all, "Merry Christmas!"?
Well, let's start with this...My religious up-bringing was determined by a legal contract. My Swedish Methodist father somehow managed to fall in love with my Italian Catholic mother and the only way she could continue to receive the sacraments was for them to sign an agreement that their children would be raised Catholic.
So my brother and I went to Mass every Sunday and Catechism on Saturdays but with no religious or spiritual guidance at home...ever. Once, the nuns encouraged me to bring my father into the fold and I discovered how hard it had been for him to sign that agreement. (His father, two uncles and two brothers were all Methodist ministers.)
Christmases, which we celebrated with my mother's family on Christmas Eve, were noisy marathons of discussion and arguments, amid large volumes of food and presents. Around hour three an in-law would make predictably offensive comments about the Pope and eventually a contingent would troop off to Midnight Mass. It was food, family and stuff - no Baby Jesus, Wise Men, light in the darkness...
But one year someone brought a stranger, a person not well known to any of us but stranded for the holiday. I can't remember who it was but that person, by his or her mere presence, transformed the event. Instead of just blending in, they became the center of interest. My disputant relatives became curious, sensitive, and generous with their attention. The happening was so successful it was repeated the next year and soon was an unofficial part of our Christmases and clearly the most meaningful for everyone.
I often wondered how my intense, argumentative relatives found such tenderness for people they didn't even know. And it was a quiet Christmas miracle that this brought out the finest qualities in our guests, some of whom over the years became part of the family. In reflecting back, I wonder if it had to do with my mother's family being immigrants who knew first hand what it was like to be far from home in an unfamiliar place.
This was how 'the spirit' crept into my Christmas. There was no sermon, no doctrinal or Constitutional dispute; and the food and gifts became a setting for something very human, real and touching. I think all of us here in Ashland, in our compassionate and generous instincts, especially at this time of year, can find each other and help bind our community together.
And so - in this particular sense - may I wish you all, "Merry Christmas!"?
Friday, December 18, 2009
Cold Weather Helpful Hints from Ashland Fire
As we've seen recently, temperatures can drop below freezing at any time, Ashland residents should take precautions now to prevent their pipes from freezing. When unprotected water lines are exposed to freezing temperatures for several hours, the water in the pipes also freezes. As water freezes, it expands and can cause pipes to crack or split, which can lead to significant leaks that may cause extensive water loss and substantial property damage. This is true with domestic water supply, fire sprinkler piping, and irrigation piping.
Ashland Fire and Rescue offers these tips to help prevent their pipes from freezing:
Indoors
• Keep kitchen and bath pipes exposed to warm air by leaving cabinet doors open during periods of extreme cold.
• Don’t turn the thermostat too low or off when leaving for work or extended absences. Keep the temperature set at a normal nighttime setting.
• Locate the master water shut-off valve, label it, and make sure everyone in the family knows where it is.
• If residents are going to be gone from their homes for any length of time, shut off the water supply at the main valve; then turn on faucets and flush the toilets to drain the pipes. Drained water can be collected and used to water house plants or other domestic uses.
Outdoors
• Disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses. Detaching the hose allows water to drain from the pipe.
• Protect faucets with insulated covers available at hardware and building supply stores.
• Winterize irrigation systems by draining and shutting off water supplies.
• Close all windows and doors near water lines, including garage doors.
• Caulk around pipes where they enter the house.
• Close foundation vents and seal cracks in the basement, crawl spaces or along outside walls.
• Wrap pipes in unheated areas with weatherproof insulation. Don’t leave any gaps.
• Use heat tape to wrap pipes. Consult a professional if necessary.
John Karns, Fire Chief
Ashland Fire and Rescue offers these tips to help prevent their pipes from freezing:
Indoors
• Keep kitchen and bath pipes exposed to warm air by leaving cabinet doors open during periods of extreme cold.
• Don’t turn the thermostat too low or off when leaving for work or extended absences. Keep the temperature set at a normal nighttime setting.
• Locate the master water shut-off valve, label it, and make sure everyone in the family knows where it is.
• If residents are going to be gone from their homes for any length of time, shut off the water supply at the main valve; then turn on faucets and flush the toilets to drain the pipes. Drained water can be collected and used to water house plants or other domestic uses.
Outdoors
• Disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses. Detaching the hose allows water to drain from the pipe.
• Protect faucets with insulated covers available at hardware and building supply stores.
• Winterize irrigation systems by draining and shutting off water supplies.
• Close all windows and doors near water lines, including garage doors.
• Caulk around pipes where they enter the house.
• Close foundation vents and seal cracks in the basement, crawl spaces or along outside walls.
• Wrap pipes in unheated areas with weatherproof insulation. Don’t leave any gaps.
• Use heat tape to wrap pipes. Consult a professional if necessary.
John Karns, Fire Chief
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