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Council members listen to community concerns

Mayor says he wants city to establish measurable goals that can be reached to improve issues raised by residents.

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By Dave Greber, Staff Writer 9:45 PM Wednesday, March 17, 2010

HAMILTON — The city needs to redouble its efforts when it comes to keeping streets and neighborhoods free of trash and other debris, provide additional funding for youth programs and community methods of collaboration, residents told council members Wednesday, March 17.

More than 25 people — mostly residents of the city’s 2nd and 4th wards — aired their concerns during a special meeting held at the Booker T. Washington Community Center on South Front Street.

While there was no agenda, the two-hour discussion shifted among cleaning up the city, race relations and youth programs.

The purpose of the meeting was for council to listen rather than talk.

“We really want to hear what you’re thinking,” said Councilman Archie Johnson, who, along with Councilwoman Kathleen Klink, is a member of the Quality of Life Committee. “As your city leaders, we want to give an ear to the community.”

Most council members and city officials took feverish notes as residents spoke, the entire group sitting in a large circle in the center’s multipurpose room.

The first half of the meeting quickly grew dedicated to issues regarding nuisances and cleanliness. Although residents acknowledged budget cuts the council approved last year — and the constraints that have come as a result — frustrations were apparent.

“When the grass is taller than I am, I have great concern. My budget is tight, too,” said resident Jonnie Carrethers.”

Others, like Victor Davis, said too much “lip service” is paid to the same issues batted around the circle Wednesday.

“I don’t want to come to the city and come and talk to you if there’s nobody that looks like me,” Davis said passionately. “I love my city, but I’m frustrated when all we do is meet and nothing gets done.”

In closing, Mayor Pat Moeller said he wanted the council and city to establish “measurable goals” that can be accomplished regarding issues discussed Wednesday. “We want to learn from you, we want to walk with you, we want to improve the city of Hamilton,” he said.

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