From Monday’s city commission meeting summary…

“On a motion by Commissioner Cunningham, second by Commissioner Kemp, and all present voting “aye”, the City Commission requested that the City Manager research and prepare a report on the options for establishing a local farm project.”

What on earth is this?  Certainly sounds intriguing.

Maybe the city manager could fill us in when she has a moment?

Scott points out another AJC blurb (only in the hardcopy) which notes the city has approved the hiring two new crossing guards, taking $11,000 out of the savings budget to pay them.  It’s not online, but it is actually noted in the City Commission Meeting Summary from Monday.

Just another example of the city putting its money where its mouth is regarding the walkability/bikeability goal set in the 2000 Strategic Plan.  Scott points out that while the concept of walkability has certainly caught on as a catch-phrase for communities as of late (ITP and OTP), Decatur is still very unique.  Very few areas actually have the political willpower and tax dollars to complete the full puzzle, because its not just about being in close proximity, but also sidewalk/road design and actual perceptions of safety. (and we should listen to him – even when its just me paraphrasing – because Scott’s a pro and he’s knee-deep in this stuff every day 8) ).

So yes, it is just a couple new crossing guards, but its still an important example of the continuing vitality of our much larger, long-term plan.

But of course everything still hangs on available funds.  And if Sonny cuts the HTRG and property values remain flat (or decline), AND we don’t annex, will we be forced to cutback come fiscal year ’09-’10?

A great concept…

On November 15th from 9a-1p, Renewal Construction is sponsoring the 1st annual “Park Renewal Day” at Dearborn Park in Decatur.

According to a press release from Renewal, the event “will feature teams competing to clear and uproot invasive plants for the chance to win big prize money. Officials from DeKalb County and Decatur,along with other prominent community figures, will judge the quality and quantity of work done to each team’s designated plot. Prize money will be allocated to the top four teams ($1,000, $500, $350, and $250, respectively).”

After all that sweating kudzu pulling, Renewal is promising food, live entertainment and of course an awards ceremony.  (“This baby’s going on the mantle!”)

Teams need to be registered by October 25th.  See the event’s website for all the details.