Update: 7/5/10

Good Evening MJ:

In this posting I want to spend a few minutes outlining actions taken by the MJ Board of Commissioners in their recent passage of the FY11 budget. Going through the entire budget would take lots of pages, so this is sort of a thumb nail sketch of major items that passed last week.

First, there are some improvements within our Parks and Rec system. Most noteworthy is a push to add a couple pieces of equipment at the new skate park, establish a "Tot Park" earmarked for those 5 years and under at the Charlie Daniels (CD) Park, work towards building a "Splash Park" at either CD or South Park, expanding the Frisbee course at Mundy Park, and bringing on one new employee (to replace a part time authorization). Mr. Cameli, the MJ Director of Parks and Rec, is also looking into a more proactive cost sharing effort at MJ newest Park, the Beazer Soccer fields, to enhance the quality of soccer in MJ.

In Public Works we're looking at nearly three-quarters of a million dollars in street improvements throughout MJ using State Street Aid funds. The PW Team are also looking to build a facility to house the city's vac truck. The vac truck is a very expensive piece of equipment used in clearing and maintaining sewer lines, and unfortunately it spends nearly all of its time parked outdoors. This effort will hopefully extend the life of the truck by minimizing wear and tear from the weather, and freezes in the vinyl hoses that are crucial to its operation. Mr. Keel also plans to build a storage shed for the city's salt supply which is also in the weather.

The BOC provided seed money to examine the options and costs for a new police facility. A preliminary look at several cities who have recently went through this process shows a building with adequate expansion, communication and security capabilities are averaging in the $4m to $5m range. Stay tuned to this forum for updates.

The PD consumes the majority of the city's budget. This year the force made the case for some real improvements, both in capital equipment (primarily patrol vehicles) and personnel. "Civilianizing" the Director of the Animal Shelter's position will allow a uniformed officer to return to the force. Chief Garrett also plans to bring on one new patrol officer, and an additional records clerk. We anticipate these new numbers will provide enhanced security and service responsiveness.

Finally, the Board approved a first time ever "longevity" allowance to team members who have between 5 and 20 years of service with the city, and a pay raise. Overall, the overwhelming majority of those involved with the process felt the FY11 budget helped continue improving the quality of life for our city. On behalf of the Team, we appreciate their commitment and vision.

A couple final notes. Special thanks goes out to Mr. Tom Needham and his crew for a fantastic 4th of July Fireworks Show. For those not there, you really missed something special. For those who enjoyed the evening, if you get a chance please stop by Needham's Nursery on Lebanon Road and thank Tom and his staff. Even though the city underwrites the 4th fireworks, Tom has lot's of his personal resources and "sweat equity" in making MJ's Fourth something truly extraordinary. Lastly, I recently received a rather turgid and confrontational email from a citizen in response to a posting on this blog. As stated in the original "rules" first published when this blog was created, this isn't a forum to take on outside posts. You are welcome to share your thoughts, but please don't be offended if they don't get published.

Have a great week MJ. Take care and God bless.

R. Robertson