Central Park discusses volunteers, sidewalks, streetlights

Central Park Neighborhood Association President Jerry Rule asked for volunteers to staff the beautification, safety and blight committees at the Sept. 8 meeting.

"We need people who will organize and run these committees, to watch and report as things change in our neighborhood," Rule said. "The committees can help us approach the city with information about problems in the area."

Rule distributed a neighborhood sidewalk survey he did showing the locations of 65 sidewalk squares that were at least 2 inches above the other squares that pose a tripping hazard or were in crumbling condition.

Vice President Edwin Custer told members that homeowners could repair up to four squares of sidewalk surrounding their property, but they need a city permit to do so.

Another member suggested homeowners look into "concrete lifting" — an inexpensive alternative to replacing squares.

The survey will be given to Councilman Dale Weighill (Ward 7) to set priorities for squares the city will repair. A recent city ruling gave city councilmen responsibility for determining their ward's infrastructure maintenance.

Lack of streetlights was a problem brought up by members. Rule suggested members look into areas where streetlights are needed or where lights are not working.

"Street lights that are not working should be referred to Consumers Energy," said Rule.

Norma Sain, director of Court Street Village Nonprofit, urged the association to initiate committees in order to stabilize the neighborhood. "We have many grant opportunities and with input from your committees we can apply for grants. I need your help and direction," Sain said.

Sain also reported that the Genesee County Land Bank will solicit bids to renovate the UM-Flint Alternatives House later this year.

Rule announced that the Flint River Corridor Alliance is holding a competitive event, the Neighborhood Cup, from 1 to 5 p.m. Oct. 22 at Memorial Park to help neighborhood residents to work together to solve common issues facing the neighborhoods and the city.

Rule also reported that there has been a flood of students renting apartments in the neighborhood since the university housing, including the Durant, is filled. Members asked landlords to provide their tenants a list of community norms to encourage responsible behavior by students.

Custer asked for volunteers to help plant eight sugar maple trees the neighborhood purchased as part of a grant. The planting will take place at 10 a.m. Sept. 17.

The next meeting will be at 7 p.m. Oct. 13 at Court Street Village Nonprofit Neighborhood House, 727 East Street.