The Critical Role of Sidewalk Maintenance in Public Health and Quality of Life
The Critical Role of Sidewalk Maintenance in Public Health and Quality of Life
By JOE WALLACE
July 8, 2024
Sidewalks, often overlooked, are vital components of urban infrastructure that significantly influence public health and quality of life. When sidewalks fall into disrepair, becoming cracked, uneven, or obstructed, they substantially threaten the community’s well-being. The state of sidewalks affects walkability, access to essential services, and the risk of injuries, which can result in serious legal and financial repercussions for municipalities.
The Importance of Walkable Neighborhoods
Walkable neighborhoods offer numerous benefits. They promote physical activity, reduce automobile reliance, and foster social interactions. Well-maintained sidewalks are the arteries of these communities, providing safe and accessible pathways for all residents, including the elderly, children, and people with disabilities. Conversely, when sidewalks are in disrepair, they can discourage walking and cycling, leading to increased vehicle use, traffic congestion, and pollution.
Poor sidewalk conditions can undermine efforts to create sustainable and health-promoting urban environments. Residents are less likely to walk to local destinations, such as parks, schools, and community centers, if the journey is fraught with obstacles. This shift away from walking not only diminishes physical activity levels but also erodes the sense of community that walkable neighborhoods foster.
Access to Food and Medicine
Access to essential services is another critical issue linked to sidewalk quality. In many urban areas, especially those with low-income populations, residents rely on walking as their primary mode of transportation. Broken or unsafe sidewalks can severely restrict their ability to access food, medicine, and other necessities. For those without cars, a trip to the grocery store or pharmacy can become a dangerous endeavor.
This problem is particularly acute for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with mobility impairments. For instance, an elderly person living in a neighborhood with poor sidewalks may find it challenging to walk to the nearest store or clinic, leading to potential health risks from lack of nutrition or delayed medical care. Inadequate sidewalks can also hinder access to public transportation, compounding the problem by isolating residents from broader urban amenities and opportunities.
Risk of Injuries and Legal Liabilities
The physical dangers posed by deteriorating sidewalks are significant. Tripping on uneven pavement or navigating around obstacles can result in falls and injuries, ranging from minor bruises to severe fractures or head injuries. For the elderly, a fall can lead to long-term health complications, including reduced mobility and independence.
Such incidents also carry legal and financial implications for municipalities. Injured individuals may seek compensation, leading to costly legal battles and potential settlements. Local governments are responsible for maintaining public infrastructure, and failure to do so can be seen as negligence. The financial burden of injury claims can strain municipal budgets, diverting funds from other critical services and infrastructure projects.
Proactive Measures and Community Involvement
Addressing sidewalk disrepair requires proactive measures and community involvement. Regular inspections and maintenance programs are essential to identify and rectify problems before they lead to injuries. Municipalities should prioritize funding for sidewalk repairs and consider innovative solutions, such as using durable materials that require less frequent maintenance or implementing community-based reporting systems for hazards.
Engaging the community is also crucial. Residents can be valuable partners in identifying problem areas and advocating for improvements. Community-led initiatives, such as volunteer maintenance groups or neighborhood watch programs focused on sidewalk conditions, can supplement municipal efforts and foster a sense of collective responsibility.
Conclusion
The condition of sidewalks is more than a matter of aesthetics; it is a critical public health and quality of life issue. Ensuring that sidewalks are safe and accessible enhances walkability, supports access to essential services, and reduces the risk of injuries. By investing in regular maintenance and engaging the community, municipalities can create safer, healthier, and more connected urban environments. The benefits of such investments extend beyond individual well-being, contributing to the overall vitality and resilience of communities.
EDITORIAL: A DIVIDED PARTY IS A LOSING PARTY
A DIVIDED PARTY IS A LOSING PARTY
By Johnny Kincaid For CCO
July 8, 2024
As the 2024 general election looms, both major political parties are facing division. As fed up as Americans get, the majority stick with the candidates from the Republican or Democratic parties. Instead of considering an alternative candidate, uninspired voters will stay home on Election Day.
On the national level, a fissure has developed among Democrats regarding Joe Biden’s candidacy. On one side are Biden loyalists who believe that he is competent and has earned the right to run for re-election by winning the delegates in the primaries. On the other side are the Democrats who saw the debate as a sign that Biden isn’t fit to serve another four years.
If Biden is convinced to remove himself from the ticket, his loyalists may decide not to vote in the fall election, affecting all of the down-ticket races. If Biden stays in the race, voters must be convinced that he is not having cognitive problems. Either option will affect voter turnout.
In the run for Governor, Indiana Republicans were divided going into the state convention. By a narrow margin, they chose Micah Beckwith as the Lieutenant Governor candidate over the gubernatorial candidate Mike Braun’s choice of Julie McGuire. The GOP will be faced with numerous attempts by Democrats to exploit and widen the divide in the party. Democrats have already latched on to some statements made by Beckwith in an attempt to convince moderate Republicans that he is a radical who will bring doom to the state.
While Democrats have been the minority party in Indiana, they appear to be more united than the GOP. If they can stay united and take advantage of problems in the GOP, they could draw votes from independents and moderate Republicans, jeopardizing the long-term GOP hold on the governor’s office.
Republicans will need to present a united front to stay in office. The battles that led up to the convention must be laid aside. The Braun-Beckwith team has to speak together about their vision for the state. Braun’s agenda has to be Beckwith’s agenda, and Braun would be wise to consider some of the policies that Beckwith talked about during his run for lieutenant governor.
For the Indiana GOP, victory in the fall will require members at all levels to stop bickering and focus on winning the election. Leadership needs to reach out to the record number of new precinct committeemen who were elected in the May primary. These PCs are waiting for leadership to communicate with them in any form. If these members sense a lack of leadership within the party, they will fill the leadership vacuum, even if it’s filled with someone outside of the party.
In Vanderburgh County, there has been talk of long-time party member Marsha Abell Barnhardt facilitating a social event to give all PCs an opportunity to gather and feel welcomed. Such an event would be a welcome start to uniting the party and making new PCs feel welcome.
Republicans throughout the state are very aware of the problems in Vanderburgh County. If members of the Central Committee or people with leadership skills in the party step forward to unite the party, it would set an example for the rest of the state and present the unity necessary to win elections.
A united group of enthusiastic volunteers will excite the voters and get a higher turnout. A divided party will struggle with voter turnout and lose elections.
City Council Meeting JULY 8, 2024
JULY 8, 2024
5:30 P.M.
AGENDA
| I. | INTRODUCTION |
07-08-2024 Agenda Attachment:
| II. | APPROVAL OF MEETING MEMORANDUM |
06-24-2024 Memo Attachment:
| III. | REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS |
| IV. | SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY |
| V. | CONSENT AGENDA: FIRST READING OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS |
A. ORDINANCE F-2024-09 An Ordinance of the Common Council of the City of Evansville Authorizing Transfers of Appropriations, Additional Appropriations and Repeal and Re-Appropriation of Funds for Various City Funds Sponsor(s): Burton Discussion Led By: Finance Chair Burton Discussion Date: 7/22/2024 Notify: Robert Gunter, Controller F-2024-09 Attachment:
B. ORDINANCE R-2024-23 An Ordinance to Rezone Certain Real Estate in the City of Evansville, State of Indiana, More Commonly Known as 1314 N First Ave Owner: Dorsie Mark Gibson Requested Change: C4 to C2 Ward: 6 Brinkmeyer Representative: Jason Gibson R-2024-23 Attachment:
C. ORDINANCE R-2024-24 An Ordinance to Rezone Certain Real Estate in the City of Evansville, State of Indiana, More Commonly Known as 2116 & 2118 N 5th Ave Owner: SAMM Trucking Excavating, Inc Requested Change: C1 & C4 w/ UDC to C4 w/ UDC Ward: 6 Brinkmeyer Representative: Jenna Faulkner, SAMM Trucking & Excavating, Inc R-2024-24 Attachment:
D. ORDINANCE R-2024-25 An Ordinance to Rezone Certain Real Estate in the City of Evansville, State of Indiana, More Commonly Known as 1314, 1316, 1320 Cedar St Owner:SAMM Trucking Excavating, Inc Requested Change: C4 & R2 to M1 Ward: 6 Brinkmeyer Representative: Jenna Faulkner, SAMM Trucking & Excavating, Inc R-2024-25 Attachment:
E. ORDINANCE R-2024-26 An Ordinance to Rezone Certain Real Estate in the City of Evansville, State of Indiana, More Commonly Known as 1906 S Evans Ave Owner:Tevin Woodruff Requested Change: M2 to R1 Ward: 4 Burton Representative: Steven L. Bohleber, Law Offices of Steven L. Bohleber R-2024-26 Attachment:
F. ORDINANCE R-2024-27 An Ordinance to Rezone Certain Real Estate in the City of Evansville, State of Indiana, More Commonly Known as 59-61, 65-67 and 69 Adams Ave Owner: SS&K, LLC Requested Change: C4 w/ UDC to CO2w/ UDC Ward: 4 Burton Representative: Krista Lockyear, Stoll, Keenon, Ogden, PLLC R-2024-27 Attachment:
G. ORDINANCE R-2024-28 An Ordinance to Rezone Certain Real Estate in the City of Evansville, State of Indiana, More Commonly Known as 1501 N Green River Rd Owner:Business Buildings, LLC Requested Change: M2 to M1 Ward: 1 Trockman Representative: Laura A Scott, Farmer, Scott, Ozete, Robinson & Schmitt, LLP R-2024-28 Attachment:
| VI. | COMMITTEE REPORTS |
| VII. | REGULAR AGENDA: SECOND READING OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS |
A. ORDINANCE G-2024-05 An Ordinance Amending Chapter 8.02 (Health and Sanitation) of the Evansville Municipal Code Sponsor(s): Allen, Heronemus Discussion Led By: ASD Chair Mosby Discussion Date: 7/8/2024 Notify: Joshua Trockman, KDDK G-2024-05 Attachment:
| VIII. | RESOLUTION DOCKET |
| IX. | MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS |
A. THE NEXT MEETING of the Common Council will be Monday, July 22, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.
B. ADDITIONAL MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS
| X. | COMMITTEE REPORTS |
| XI. | ADJOURNMENT |
USDA Invests $5.2 Million in 17 Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Projects
WASHINGTON, – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $5.2 million in 17 new grants that support urban agriculture and innovative production. Grant recipients, including Friends of the Pittsburgh Urban Forest in Pennsylvania, will increase food production and access in economically distressed communities, provide job training and education, and allow partners to develop business plans and zoning proposals. These grants build on $46.8 million invested in 186 projects since 2020 and are part of USDA’s broad support for urban agriculture through its Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (OUAIP).
“This grant program has continued to grow in popularity. We received over 620 applications this year, double from last year’s total and we are excited to support urban agriculture and innovative producers and improve access to healthy and nutritious food for local communities with this round of funding.” said Denise Coleman, State Conservationist for USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Pennsylvania. “These projects support communities by growing fresh, healthy food, providing jobs and increasing access to healthy food in areas where grocery stores are scarce.”
Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Grants
The Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (UAIP) competitive grants program supports a wide range of activities through grants that include planning and implementation activities. Planning activities initiate or expand efforts of farmers, gardeners, citizens, government officials, schools and other stakeholders in urban areas and suburbs, while implementation activities accelerate existing and emerging models of urban, indoor and other agricultural practices that serve farmers and communities.
Selected project in Pennsylvania includes Tree Pittsburgh Nursery which plans to establish new orchards in communities struggling with urban blight and poor soil quality in vacant lots designated for gardens, aiming to alleviate food deserts. The objective of this specific project is to make disease-resistant hardy fruit and nut nursery stock affordable and available to the local orchards, community garden and disadvantaged residents in Pittsburgh, PA.
In total, 17 projects were funded in 13 states. For a complete list of grant recipients and project summaries, visit usda.gov/urban.
Interactive Movie Time: The Bad Guys | July 10
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Ready for an interactive movie experience like never before? We’re excited to invite you to our special screening of “The Bad Guys” on July 10th at 2 pm as part of our Summer Reading Program. Event Details: Date: Wednesday, July 10, 2024 Time: 2 PM Location: Browning Gallery (lower level) Join us as we dive deep into the world of “The Bad Guys” with fun, interactive activities. We’ll start the event with a crafting session where you’ll create something special to use during the movie. All supplies will be provided, so just bring your enthusiasm and creativity! This event is part of our Summer Reading Program: Adventure Begins at Your Library. Don’t forget to sign up and earn prizes for all your summer reading adventures! And don’t forget to sign up for our Summer Reading Program: Adventure Begins at Your Library. Get prizes for all your summer reading and make this summer a truly adventurous one! Mark your calendars, gather your friends, and get ready for a unique movie experience. We can’t wait to see you there! Willard Public Library encourages patrons and visitors to donate graciously to ensure the continuation of events like this for years to come. The WPL’s Foundation is a non-profit organization registered as a 501(c)(3). >> https://www.willardlib.org/donate Watch the Grey Lady Ghost at Willard Public Library on our World-Famous Ghost Cams >> https://www.willardghost.com/
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Ashley Nels Appointed UE Registrar and Head of Academic Advising and Retention
EVANSVILLE, IND. (07/06/2024) The University of Evansville (UE) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ashley Nels as the new Registrar and Head of Academic Advising and Retention, effective July 8, 2024. Nels will be succeeding Keely Cutts, who has accepted a new position out of state.
Nels has been an invaluable member of the UE community, serving as the Associate Registrar since January 2021. Prior to that, she held the position of Assistant Registrar from August 2017 and began her career at UE in January 2016 as an Admission Counselor. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in History and a Master of Science in Leadership from the University of Evansville.
“I am excited for Ashley to continue her journey at UE in this expanded role,” said Mary P. Kessler, Interim Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs/Provost. “Her dedication and leadership will undoubtedly enhance the operations of both the Registrar’s Office and our Academic Advising and Retention efforts. I am confident that she will continue to contribute positively to the student experience and student success.”
The University of Evansville is a private, comprehensive university located in the southwestern region of Indiana. Established in 1854, UE is recognized across the globe for its rich tradition of innovative, academic excellence and vibrant campus community of changemakers.
USI selects Ramirez as next baseball coach Former Lenoir-Rhyne, UIS coach to lead Eagles
EVANSVILLE, Ind. – The University of Southern Indiana announced the hiring of Chris Ramirez as the sixth head baseball coach in the history of the 54 year-old program.
“I am very excited for the opportunity to lead the USI baseball program,” said Ramirez. “The Screaming Eagles have had a rich tradition and history of success, which I look forward to building upon. Our plan is to win championships in the Ohio Valley Conference and compete in the NCAA Baseball Tournament. I can’t wait to get to know our current players and get to work”.
Ramirez has a 351-202-1 record as a head coach in 11 seasons, including three NCAA II Tournament appearances and being named NCBWA National Coach of the Year in 2018. He led Lenoir-Rhyne University to the programs most successful five-seasons in program history with a 152-80 record, reaching the NCAA post-season in 2022. He also posted a record of 199-122-1 in six years at the University of Illinois Springfield, earning trips the NCAA II Tournament in 2018 and 2019.
“We had incredible interest in this position as many coaches feel the same as we do that USI can win championships and make NCAA regionals when eligible,” said USI Director of Athletics Jon Mark Hall. “USI had interest from head and assistant coaches from Power 4 programs, mid-majors, and programs coming off regional appearances, along with interest from high level D2, D3, NAIA and JUCO programs.
“We landed on Chris because he is a winner and, like USI, earned his success through hard work,” continued Hall. “He has a blue collar, hard-working mentality that will fit right in with our athletic department and the University.”
Ramirez directed the UIS Prairie Stars into the NCAA II Midwest Regional for the first time in program history in 2018 with a 47-9 record and a Great Lakes Valley Conference regular season championship with a 23-1 conference mark. The Stars and Ramirez followed up with a Midwest Super Regional appearance in 2019 after posting a 41-17 record and a 21-12 GLVC mark.
The UIS program was ranked as high as third and fourth in the nation in both 2018 and 2019, leading the nation in both home runs and slugging percentage.
After moving on to Lenoir-Rhyne, Ramirez built the Bears into a regional contender in 2022 following a 46-13 campaign that included a 17-7 record in the South Atlantic Conference and tournament Championship. The Bears, who had four wins over teams ranked number one in the nation in 2022, finished ranked as high as 11th nationally and finished the year 15th. The 2022 pitching staff set a new NCAA II record for single season strikeouts with 647 on the year. The Bears also reached a program best in 2023 when they were ranked seventh nationally.
Ramirez served as a Division I assistant coach for six seasons at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi before taking the top spots at UIS and Lenior-Rhyne.
As a student athlete, Ramirez was a two-time All-Conference centerfielder and closer at Kirkwood Community College before earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration from High Point University. He played two seasons for High Point and earned Big South All-Academic honor in 2005.
The Iowa native was born and raised in Fort Madison and won a state championship in 2000.
Ramirez and his wife, Lindsay, have three children; Layla, Mia and Stryker.
Ramirez takes over a USI baseball program which was 27-32 overall, 14-13 in Ohio Valley Conference, and placed third in the league’s post-season tournament during its second year of Division I action. USI’s 27 wins last spring were an improvement of 10 victories over its inaugural season with OVC and Division I.
EPD DAILY ACTIVITY REPORT
FOOTNOTE: EPD DAILY ACTIVITY REPORT information was provided by the EPD and posted by the City-County-County Observer without opinion, bias, or editing.