The Mayor’s Corner 10-19-16

DianaPlans are well underway and being coordinated for the visit on November 8 of the National Christmas tree.  Former teacher, Julie Chandler and Council person, Layna Hafer have been in charge of planning and coordinating the visit and are doing a great job of bringing people together.  It is going to a fun morning celebrating the tree and its journey to the White House.  Be sure to put the date on your calendar and join us from 9:00-11:00 a.m. on November 8.  
November 8 is also Election Day. Remember to vote either before coming to the Tree celebration or after.  This is too important and election not to use your right to vote.  Polls open at 8:00 a.m. and are open until 8:00 p.m.  Last Friday was the last day to pre-register to vote.  You can still register at the polls.  Contact the Washington County Clerk’s office for instructions and what verification of residency you need to take to the polls.  October 28 is the last day to request a mail-in absentee ballot for the election and it must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on election day.  The last day for in-person absentee voting is November 4 at the County Clerk’s office.  Voting is a privilege and a responsibility.

The City Street crew will be doing some tree trimming over the next few weeks.  Trees hanging over the street will be trimmed so that street maintenance equipment, such as the sweeper, snow removal equipment, and etc. can be safely operated to the curb line.  Property owners can trim their own trees and bushes if they prefer.  Notify the City when you plan to have it done this fall.  The City will do the trimming if there is a maintenance issue or hazard created by trees or bushes.  Trees need to be trimmed up to at least 10 feet high and need to be even with the curb line.  Trees along East Court Street will be trimmed to make it possible for the National Christmas Tree and the Potato truck to make their way down to the location for the celebration prior to November 8. If you have any questions, contact Pat Malay at 550-0302.

Another reminder:  please place leaves in street by curb not in the alley.  Our leaf vacuum cannot be used in the alleys and should not be mixed with yard debris.  Thank you.

I want to take time this week to say thank you to Nate Marvin.  Nate is retiring from the City this month after 31 years.  He has been the purchasing agent/deputy City Clerk and public works supervisor for many years but held several positions over the years. Nate will be greatly missed for his hard work and dedication to our community.  His work ethic and kindness has been appreciated by those he works with and works for.  Nate’s position has not been filled at this time.  It remains open until filled.  Department heads are stepping up to take more of a role working with David Tate until the position is filled.  For more information, see the City web page.  Good luck, Nate, enjoy the new adventures in your life.