March 1st came and went but unfortunately spring did not. Every time a warm, sunny day blesses us I am sure it is here but Mother Nature changes her mind (a feminine privilege?) and turns on the cold again.
I enjoy the comments and observations that you share with me, so keep them coming. I find that assessing public opinion is one of the hardest things to do when attempting to represent you on the urban county council. There are many needed services such as public safety, roads, sewers, and schools. Many other services are provided by government such as urban planning, parks, trees, bicycle trails, museums, and events such as our July 4th festival. I have had the opportunity to visit many cities around the world. The places I like the best have such amenities and Lexington would be even an better place if we could do even more for our citizens.
Primary Colors
The most important upcoming activity is the primary election which will be held on May 27. A candidate’s forum will be held for the Chevy Chase Neighborhood in April. If there is still a need for residents to hear from the three candidates, I will arrange another sometime in early May, probably at Henry Clay High School.
Housekeeping
There are several dead trees that appear to be dangerous; I have asked the city foresters to inspect and see about their removal. Building Inspection and Code Enforcement are currently collaborating in order to get the sidewalk replaced at 301 Romany Road. Traffic engineering is collecting the data for the intersections and streets around Christ the King. I will ask for a public meeting with the involved neighborhoods to review the options to reduce street hazards. Clinton Road Park will give up a little space temporarily so Columbia Gas can use it as a depot for construction materials while replacing some lines in the neighborhood. Johnson Heights Park’s Liberty Road entrance will be constructed after I have found funds to pay for the $15,000 cost. I am trying to find some money for the restoration of the unnamed and virtually unseen creek that courses along Richmond Road from the Idle Hour Country Club to the LFUCG Firehouse. A sidewalk is also desperately needed along the same pathway.
Warning!
The Police Division will be beginning selective enforcement of the speed limits along Chinoe Road from Gainesway north to Cooper Drive on March 24.
Well Wishes
I am sad to report that the legislative aid for the 5th district, Lori Kidwell, accepted a job as communications director for the Cabinet for Education in Frankfort and has departed. She got to know many in the district, and she did an excellent job. Mary Tackett (425-2285), a long-time city employee, came out of retirement to work as the legislative aide for me and Don Blevins, 10th district councilman.
Stormy Weather
Expenses for this fiscal year will exceed the projected income by $5 million and expenses will be deferred, as we can’t spend it if we don’t have it. The really bad news is that the shortfall projected for FY09 will be $25 million. Our contractual obligations for payroll are already $17 million or so. As chairman of the Budget and Finance committee, I believe it is a crisis. Deep cuts in services or tax increases or both will be necessary.
David Stevensserves as the 5th district council representative. He can be reached at 258-3200 or by e-mail at david@lfucg.com.