It's Miller Time!

As beautiful as the fall is, I am going to miss the warm summer weather.  Summer is the time when people are out and about in the neighborhood and the community.  There were outdoor movie nights, Wednesdays on the Porch, neighborhood clean-ups, Bike the Ward, the 200th Street Stroll, etc.

Because people are out and about, they notice what’s going on in the neighborhood too.  That’s important.  The city, and Councilpersons like myself, depend upon citizens to help them know what’s going on in their neighborhood.  The Police Department and City Services Department are always pleased to investigate issues that are brought to their attention.   

Recently, the residents of Miller Avenue began gathering to discuss their neighborhood.  It started with a Miller Avenue resident calling regarding some problems she saw in the neighborhood.  After speaking to her, a meeting of Miller Avenue residents was scheduled.  My wife and I delivered flyers to every house on the street, inviting residents to the meeting.

That meeting was attended by longtime residents and new neighbors, young and old, black and white, homeowners and renters.  With all of the diversity represented, there was one common theme.  Everyone really cared about their neighbors and the neighborhood.  They were all glad to meet neighbors that they had not known before the meeting. 

We spoke about many different things.  I left that meeting with a list of concerns to investigate and a promise from one of the residents to host another gathering – a Wednesday on the Porch.  One by one I tended to the issues on my list.  Neighbors were concerned about sewers that needed to be cleaned out and cars speeding down the street.  There were other safety issues mentioned, including concerns about drug dealers.  None of these issues are solved overnight, but they are now on the radar of the people that can help solve them. 

The next meeting was the Wednesday on the Porch.  Again, it was well attended.  At that meeting, the residents committed to start a Block Watch.  I am excited to see how the residents of Miller Avenue have come together to make a difference in their neighborhood.  When this happens, everyone benefits.  I can better serve my constituents because they have told me what they need.  The neighborhood is now empowered to take some control over what happens there.  The neighbors no longer feel alone.  They know there are other neighbors that are also committed to keep the neighborhood clean and safe. 

I use this example as an invitation to others in Ward 2.  I am always happy to host street meetings or to help organize a block watch.  I am also happy to follow up on concerns you may have.  If I can be of help in any way, please don’t hesitate to call or email.