COUNCILMAN’S CORNER
Good News!! The most recent crime statistics are out for the City of Fort Wayne. Total crimes are down 2.5% for the 1st 5 months of 2004 compared to a similar period last year. This is a significant development, especially considering the sluggish national and area economy! There continues to be a significant problem with larceny involving thefts from vehicles, gasoline “driveoffs”, thefts from garages and backyards, etc. Be sure to secure any and all personal belongings to prevent your becoming a victim and call the police desk at 427-1222 or 911 for any suspicious activity!
A recent letter to the editor of The Waynedale News expressed concern that the city has not been successful in controlling nuisance mosquitoes in the Waynedale area. Since I was elected to City Council in 1995 I’ve received and responded to many calls and emails regarding matters that are not under the direct control of Fort Wayne City Government. Some examples would include problems with local bridges and the local jail (county jurisdiction), concerns regarding the U.S. Mail and Veterans’ affairs (federal jurisdiction), etc. Control of mosquitoes in Allen County is the responsibility of the City-County Health Department that is run by Allen County Government—not the City of Fort Wayne. On many occasions I’ve worked closely with Health Department’s Mosquito Control Division but there’s no question that funds are limited and the emphasis is on disease-carrying mosquitoes, not nuisance mosquitoes. The best approach at this time is to eliminate mosquito-breeding sites and to use a DEET-containing insect repellant. The Health Department will spray in situations where there is significant health risk and occasionally agrees to spray for “nuisance” mosquitoes. Neighborhoods can also contract with private firms to spray for mosquitoes—Indian Village has taken that approach for years. If you have further questions about battling mosquitoes, call the Health Department Mosquito Control Division at 449-7459—or give me a call.
The Park Department and some members of the Park Board have come up with an excellent idea following recent suggestions from citizens. A citizens’ advisory group is being formed to give citizens the opportunity to have more direct input into matters involving the city parks. Kudos to leaders of our great park system for moving in the right direction! We’re on the verge of spending millions of dollars to upgrade our parks and citizen input is essential!
Have a great 4th of July weekend—we have much to celebrate as citizens of the USA!
Tom Hayhurst
City Councilman
4th District
432-8418
tom.hayhurst@verizon.net
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