Lexington, KY - It's hard to believe summer is over and school is back in session in Fayette County. Since school resumed a few weeks ago, we have received several calls from constituents who live near schools in the district -
I ask you to please be sensitive to those residents in terms of drop-off and pick-up traffic clogging streets and specifically blocking drive ways.
As I mentioned in my last article, I am very interested in the movement toward underground utility lines, which is being seen in all new developments. I proposed a text amendment in Services Committee on Aug. 11 that passed unanimously. After the first and second reading in full council, the text amendment will go to the Planning Commission for final approval. I've received many e-mails and phone calls in support of underground utilities on projects such as Newtown Pike. I agree that these large utility lines are an eyesore in our beautiful city and will be working with Mayor Newberry and my council colleagues to move this forward as best I can.
Many trees in the Chevy Chase area have been marked with ribbons - including one in my own yard. I spoke to Rob Allen, arborist for the Lexington Fayette Urban County Government, who told me these trees are part of a volunteer program through the Lexington Tree Board to identify ash trees susceptible to the Emerald Ash Borer disease. This does not mean the marked trees have contracted the disease; it helps to identify exactly how many of the trees in Lexington may be susceptible and to encourage property owners to keep an eye out for the typical "D" shaped markings on bark that are often the first indicator the tree has contracted the disease. For more information on Emerald Ash Borer please visit www.emeraldashborer.info. If a tree in your yard displays any of the signs or symptoms of Emerald Ash Borer infestation, call the state agriculture department's EAB hotline at (866) 322-4512, or contact the Lexington forestry program staff at (859) 258-3451 for more information.
Speaking of trees, I recently became aware of a program I think many of you will be interested in. Grand old trees define our historic Chevy Chase area, unfortunately some times weather or old age require these trees to be removed. Per LFUCG ordinance, tree removal is the responsibility of the property owner and once cited as a hazard is required by the law. Because of their size, trees in the area are very expensive to remove.
Each year through the Department of Public Works there is a small pool of money for cost sharing in tree removal. Unfortunately due to budgetary concerns, the fund is just $10,000 this year. In fact, the funds for this year have already been allocated. However, I tell you this to plan ahead and assess your trees now to apply for assistance next year if you anticipate a tree or trees in your yard will need to be removed. For more details or to receive an application, please contact Tim Queary at (859) 425-2886.
I'm happy to share that I was recently appointed to the Picnic With The Pops Commission. This year's event was a huge success with a record-breaking crowd. I would love to hear feedback from any of you who may have attended - please send me your thoughts.
As always, it's my pleasure serving you. I am very interested in joining you for a neighborhood association meeting or fall festival. I would be pleased to say hello and answer any questions regarding what's going on at City Hall. Contact me anytime at cfeigel@lfucg.com or (859) 258-3213.