Citizens For A Better Norwood

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Norwood homeowner explains Community Reinvestment Act

We want to thank Norwood resident Cameron Kelly for his extremely informative account about his experiences with the Community Reinvestment Act.

Guest blog by Cameron Kelly

It’s a great time to improve your property in the city of Norwood! Little known by the masses, in 2009, the City of Norwood passed a CRA (Community Reinvestment Act) under ordinance 18-2009. The primary purpose of the CRA is to encourage the remodeling, construction, and/or improvement of residential and commercial structures within designated areas. In return, the property owner gets a property tax exemption for a percentage of the improvement. For one and two family dwellings, the exemption is 100% of the added value. For example, prior to the passing of this ordinance, if you purchased or resided in a $100,000 home and made $50,000 worth of improvements to it, your property tax basis would have been increased to reflect a $150,000 value. Now, if you apply for the CRA, your taxes will be based on the value of the home before improvements (in this case, $100,000) for 10 years! The application deadline, as of this writing, is December 31, 2015.

Some important notes are as follows:
· All improvements must be part of the primary dwelling. Garages, sheds, driveways, etc. are not included.
· Residential applications must be accompanied by expense receipts no more than (1) year old.
· All work must be permitted through Norwood’s Department of Building and Inspections .
· For owner-occupied, one and two-family dwellings with a minimum of ($10,000) of improvements, the exemption is 100% of the increased value for (10) years.
· For the NEW construction of owner-occupied, one and two-family dwellings with a minimum of ($125,000) of improvements, the exemption is 100% of the increased value for (10) years.
· Condominiums have nearly identical exemption amounts and lengths as the one and two-family dwellings listed above.
· Incentives for dwellings of (3) or more units, as well as commercial and industrial uses are also available, though at a lesser percentage, and subject to additional negotiated terms.

Our family recently purchased and renovated a single family home using the CRA and the process was very smooth and simple. We submitted this application for a building permit to Norwood’s Department of Building and Inspections along with appropriate plans and were issued a permit within a few days. We spent the next few months on the renovation, making sure to keep all of our receipts. If you are using a single contractor, the good news is – you only have to submit a single receipt! We did a large amount of the work ourselves, so we opted to itemize our receipts on a spreadsheet to make it easier for the Building Commissioner to follow. Once the project and all inspections are complete and approved, the building department will issue an occupancy permit. It is then permissible to gather up all of the project receipts, fill out the application for the CRA
by clicking here, and submit it to the building department. Within a few weeks, we had approval of our application. At this point, the building commissioner forwards the information to the Hamilton County Auditor’s Office, which processes the tax exemption for the subsequent tax years – that’s it!


For more information, or to get a copy of the 18-2009 CRA ordinance, stop by the Building Department located in the city hall. All information contained above is merely my personal experience…..they are the experts and can provide appropriate guidance.

In summary, the CRA is a fantastic incentive to consider Norwood as a place to reside. The process was smooth and the building department very helpful in answering questions and guiding us through the process. We are proud of our “new” home and are thrilled to be living here!

Monday, November 29, 2010

Finance Chair Victor Schneider responds to readers' comments

Victor Schneider of Norwood City Council and Chairman of the Finance Committee has sent us his response below to the comments made about his 11/24/10 guest blog "Finance Committee to schedule 2011 Budget Public Hearings.":

"The City of Norwood's employees have worked hard this year to minimize spending and control cost in the wake of the country's current economic conditions. From the beginning they took a very conservative stance to everything that they accomplish for the city. The employees and union representation have worked with City leaders to ensure that the citizens of Norwood continued to receive the service that they expect and deserve.

The city ended 2009 with a carry over of money. This carry over was absorbed into the 2010 budget that was approved by City Council. This carry over money was utilized in the 2010 fiscal year to maintain the services that the residents expect. Income over the year 2010 has steadily declined. Over 2010, the Finance Committee met every month to discuss the spending that was taking place, budget controls and all other issues that the city faced financially. Throughout the year these meetings have been public, anyone could attend. They have be publicly announced. They have been taped and played back to the community on the Norwood Community Television (NCT). They have also been placed online at the NCT website. The facts are what they are. The country and all of your government entities are realizing a huge reduction in income from taxes and must take steps to meet the guidelines set by the Ohio revised code.

It is predicted that the city will end the year 2010 with a carry over again. This will not be as large as the carry over from 2009 but is still a carry over and a clear indicator that our department heads have worked within the budget parameters that City Council set for them. The budget hearings that will be announced shortly should give the people who did not or do not have a chance to attend the Finance Committee meetings a chance to be heard. I have spoke to many people in the community over the past year about how the city operates and what constraints are put in place, good and bad, to control how our local government works.

I do not respond to blog questions, and nor am I interested in getting into discussions on the CBN blog. There are no controls on the blog that could stop a person from placing something on the blog that could be attributed to my name. I am not interested in defending myself for something that anyone could post. I do not monitor the CBN blog on a daily basis. I think it is a good tool to get information out to the residents of Norwood. I think the residents need good clear communication and applaud both the CBN and Norwood Star for helping residents understand what a great community we live in.

I am sure that for some it is a "fun" way to interact with others. I work in front of a computer terminal about 4 hours each day so I am not very inclined to come home and surf the web or go to blogs to see what someone has said. It is just work instead of fun. It was never listed as a requirement as a elected official for the City. I have made myself accessible and if you have a question or concern I ask that you contact me directly either through my email at vschneider@norwood-ohio.com or call my home number. If you have questions for the Finance Committee, I speak for all members, we would love for you to attend one of the monthly meetings and maybe take the time to come to a public hearing on the budget."

Victor Schneider
Finance Committee Chairman
Norwood City Council

Eddie Cooney passes away

Following is the Enquirer’s obituary for Norwoodian Eddie Cooney, who passed away after an extended illness. Eddie was a fixture for many years at both City Council and NSC Board of Education meetings. One of us thought of him as the official greeter, always handing out the agendas and engaging in a little conversation. Meetings just won’t be the same.


COONEY Edward, Jr. "Eddie", beloved son of the late Edward and Mary Cooney; devoted brother of Patricia Hensley, Mike (Marilynn) Cooney, Kathleen Ward, Rita (Bob) Kearns, Eileen Barrett, and the late Ann Lahrman and Stevie Cooney. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. November 25, 2010. Age 69. Friends may call at Vorhis & Ryan Funeral Home, 5501 Montgomery Rd., Norwood Sunday from 4-8 PM, and at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Montgomery Rd. & Drex Ave., Norwood Monday, November 29, 2010 from 9:30 AM til time of Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to the Norwood Recreation Commission, 1810 Courtland Ave., Norwood, OH 45212 or the Norwood High School Athletic Dept., 2020 Sherman Ave., Norwood, OH 45212. Condolences to www.vorhisandryan.com.

This week at the Norwood Branch Library

Wednesday, December 1st
Movers & Shakers
10 a.m., Ages 1-4 with adult

Preschool Storytime
10:30 a.m., Ages 3-6 with adult

For more information, call 369-6037.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Finance Committee to schedule 2011 Budget Public Hearings

Guest blog by Victor Schneider

As most, but not all, people are aware this next year could be one of the most financially challenging that the city has faced since the closing of the GM plant. With the challenges that all of us have been facing with the economy we must realize or maybe the word is rationalize that the City of Norwood is no different. The city is facing tremendous hurdles for the 2011 budget.


The Finance Committee has made the decision to send a Temporary Appropriations ordinance to council for approval.

This gives City Council the chance to review and have three readings and discussion at three council meetings before the end of the year. If all goes as planned this would give the city the necessary funding to continue operations at the beginning of 2011.

The temporary budget gives the city a chance to close out the books at the end of the year and provides a chance to work with real numbers as the actual 2011 budget is formulated. This also gives the Finance Committee time to schedule a few 2011 Budget Public Hearings. I am working on those dates and should be able to release this information as soon as I have the meeting places confirmed. These meetings will be a chance for concerned citizens to see the actual hurdles that must be overcome It will also give them a chance to provide input on the decisions that the finance committee will make as recommendations for City Council.

As we have seen on all levels of government 2011 budgets are presenting a challenge. Decreased income means that cuts have to be made at certain times. The City of Norwood has run lean before and will run lean again. I feel confident that with citizen input, some very informed people on Council as well as some very dedicated and intelligent people working for the good of Norwood we will be able to overcome these challenges and thrive.

Norwood has weathered many storms and as my brother says the "toughest steel is made from the hottest fire". We have seen the hottest fire and we will overcome this challenge.

I will get the 2011 Budget Public Hearing dates to Citizens for a Better Norwood for publication as soon as they are finalized.

Victor Schneider
Finance Committee Chairman
Norwood City Council

“Very sweet” chickens living on Burwood Avenue

This Channel 9 report tells the story of the Stanton family who started raising chickens in their backyard last Easter, unaware they were running afoul of Norwood ordinance 505.15 (a)(b) that forbids chickens and other domesticated animals. The report incorrectly identifies “The Health Commissioner” as the person who knocked on the Stantons’ door and told them they weren’t allowed to have chickens in Norwood. Actually, it was Norwood Health Department Health Inspector Dale Marshall, not Pamela Walker-Bauer, who did the knocking. On October 11, Dale responded to a resident’s complaint about the chickens and wrote an order to the Stantons informing them they had 14 days to “remove all the chickens and or roosters from the property and the City of Norwood all together” per 505.15.

Following the order to remove the chickens the Stantons say are “very sweet,” they and their supporters sprang into action and successfully petitioned Norwood City Council to reconsider the chicken ban with an ordinance allowing up to 7 hens/no roosters. The ordinance has not yet been put to a vote.

We think this issue calls for one of our unscientific polls. In the event you're undecided about how to vote, you might want to read this Chicken Manifesto first. It was written in response to the same issue that came up in Montgomery, OH, and the Stantons' relied on it to help build their case to City Council.

Should council pass an ordinance allowing up to 7 hens?
Yes
No
Not sure
pollcode.com free poll


Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Xavier ROTC Hosts Armed Forces Blood Drive today

All Donations Benefit our Troops Worldwide

Xavier University's Army ROTC is hosting an Armed Forces Blood Drive on Tuesday, November 23 from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm in the Armory on Winding Way. No appointment is necessary.

All blood donated at this drive will be sent directly to military medical facilities worldwide.

Show your thanks this holiday by giving the gift of life to our armed forces.

Monday, November 22, 2010

NSL’s Holiday Assistance Program

Do you know someone unemployed, a family struggling to stay together, or with health issues? Norwood Service League is offering Holiday Assistance Program for those in need. NSL’s HAP consists of a food basket with poultry, ham, canned and packages foods, holiday cookies per family loaded in a reusable laundry basket. NSL also can help with toys for children ages 0-17 years old. NSL has handmade winter scarves, hats, gloves and mittens. Winter coats are distributed per need when available. Pick up HAP applications during normal business hours at Norwood Service League - Graff Building, 2071 Lawrence Ave. Completed applications must be returned by Friday, December 3. Approved applicants will receive December 16 distribution information by social worker.

Do you wish to donate or help NSL with our needy neighbors? We appreciate food and personal hygiene drives held through your church, workplace, civic or fraternal organizations. We accept donations of new toys for children ages 0-2 years old, and 9-12 years; gift cards are much appreciated for teens ages 13-17 years. Cash donations are also accepted.

Gently used or new coats for men, women and children of all ages are appreciated, and distributed between November-February.

All donations are accepted throughout December during normal business hours or by appointment. Please call Misty at 924-1200 for more information.

Sunday, December 19 at 6:00 p.m., NSL is co-sponsoring “Norwood Children’s Christmas Celebration” with Ashland Avenue Baptist Church, Ashland & Lafayette Avenues. All children and their families are invited for a Children’s Choir Program, door prizes for adults and children, followed by holiday food in the Family Life Center. All visiting children will receive a Santa Hat filled with candy, fruit, small toys. Great family time.

Sharing a personal story: “As a child, I grew up in poverty in the sense that our loving family had little beyond a meal and roof over our heads. I grew up wearing used clothing and shoes. I remember one Christmas season my dad was injured, couldn't work, and my mom made oatmeal for dinner. A local charity knocked at our door, saying they heard we needed some food. They brought in bags of food and potatoes, a ham, and toys for me and my siblings. My folks were grateful for the help. What impressed me the most, even as a child, was that people we didn’t even know, cared about us. This memory has been the driving force in all that I do in life, to encourage others to care about their needy neighbors.”

Lupe González-Hoyt

Norwood Service League

This week at the Norwood Branch Library

Wednesday, November 24th
Movers & Shakers
10 a.m.
Ages 1-4 with Adult

Preschool Storytime
10:30 a.m.
Ages 3-6 with Adult

Thursday, November 25th
Library Closed
Happy Thanksgiving!

For more information, call 369-6037.

Friday, November 19, 2010

Flag thief gets diversion program, community service

Channel 5 is reporting that Bryan Huff, who was charged with theft last month for taking his neighbor’s upside down flag, appeared in Norwood’s mayor’s court yesterday afternoon. He agreed to enter a diversion program and will have to complete 40 hours of community service by December 20. The charges will be dropped if he meets the deadline. Huff, a former Marine, was also ordered to stay away from his neighbor, a U.S. Navy veteran. So, does the punishment fit the crime?

Coats for Kids Project a big success

Seniors pictured: Carol King, Dottie Lane, Marian Jasper, Maureen Bishop,
and Kathy Dahlberg


The senior members at the Norwood Community/Senior Center have been busy this year collecting coats for children in our community. The seniors wanted to do something to make a positive impact and truly make a difference in the life of a child. Throughout the year, they have been raising money by a Monthly Raffle to accomplish their goal. Sixty-five brand new coats have been purchased and given to Laura Ferguson, Coordinator for Norwood’s After-School Programs, to distribute to children who need them. The seniors also donated some hats, gloves and mittens to go along with the coats.

The senior group has recently become a partner with the Norwood After-School Programs and they look forward to working on future projects that will benefit the children.


Submitted by Glenna Edwards

Tonight: Premier Night IV at Norwood High School

Norwood Star presents…

Premier Night IV

When: Friday, November 19th
Time: 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Where: Norwood High School Gym

Come join the festivities as we recognize
our winter athletes and show our support
for their upcoming season!
Pep Band will be playing!

Come see the spirit challenges
Come represent your school
Don’t miss the excitement!
Don’t miss the fun!!
Don’t miss the prizes!!!
Will the Spirit Trophy remain at
Norwood View?

Tickets: students $1/adults $2 – Winter Athletes free (Extra
tickets for drawings can be purchased for $1 each)

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Pamela Walker-Bauer featured in Fox 19 bed bug report

Norwood Health Commissioner Pamela Walker-Bauer was interviewed for this Fox 19 story about bed bugs that aired yesterday. She comments about the website BedBugRegistry.com, a site that allows individuals to post maps and addresses of hotels, apartments, public buildings where they know bed bugs infestations have occurred. There are a number of street addresses and stories about bed bugs found in the Cincinnati area. As for the credibility of the website, “Pamela Walker-Bauer says that it would be easy to manipulate the facts on the site. ‘I don't put much credibility into a site like that because it's not from somebody like the CDC, the Centers for Disease Control or the Ohio Department of Health.’"

Invitation to Norwood’s 100 Best Communities Award celebration


Norwood has been selected as one of the America’s Promise Alliance 100 Best Communities for Young People presented by ING, a national competition identifying those 100 communities nationwide that are dedicated to ending the high school dropout crisis by helping young people overcome challenged to succeed. To celebrate our achievement, city officials, community members and students will mark the occasion with a ceremony celebrating this achievement, showcasing the reasons Norwood is among the 100 Best Communities for Young People.

When: Sunday December 5 from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Program starts at 2:30 p.m.

Where: Norwood Masonic Temple, 2020 Hopkins Avenue, Norwood

Who: The entire Norwood community!

UPDATE: Home Safety Class at NHD

Health Commissioner Pamela Walker-Bauer tells us the English session of the Home Safety Class on December 8 at the Norwood Health Department (see 11/9/10 blog below) is full. She will let us know when the Spanish session is full.

11/23/10 UPDATE: Pamela Walker-Bauer says the Spanish session is now full.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Norwood Recreation's letter re 15% budget reduction

Following is Norwood Recreation Director Jenny Wallace’s letter defending Recreation’s budget in response to Finance Committee Chairman Victor Schneider’s 10/21/10 letter (see below) asking City department heads to reduce expenses by 15%. We obtained copies of both letters from the Clerk of Council’s office via a public document request following the 11/9/10 council meeting when Mr. Schneider made the public aware of Recreation’s letter by voicing strong objection to it.

We welcome comments that advance discussion about the letters and the City’s budget issues. As always, we will moderate unpleasant, uncivil, over-the-top comments we deem inappropriate for our blog.


November 5, 2010

Dear Mr. Schneider:

This letter is in response to the City’s request to the Recreation Commission to cut our funds received by the City by 15% for 2011. This Commission has been very diligent and active in working with the City to help create our budget, and have met our budget year after year. As you are aware, the recreation budget is only .004 of 1% of the City’s overall operating budget. A 15% cut is approximately $13,500, which we believe, to the City, is not a significant amount, but to the commission is a very significant amount.

Over the last several, the Commission has worked very hard to maintain and even increase programs to our residents. We have actively pursued grand funding and private sponsor donations to keep the activities available. Given the current economic situation, the available grants and our sponsors have made cut backs. Therefore, we will be receiving at least $19,000 below what we have received in the past in grants and sponsorship funds. We were very aware of this decline and have considering our alternatives to meet our budget restrains. Even before being notified of the request to cut funding from the City, we were considering options such as closing one if not two of the City’s pools. If the City cuts our budget, pool closings in addition to other cuts will have to be made in our programs. We believe that the recreation programs are vital to the continued growth of our City. Families want to live in areas that provide community activities and offer family oriented programs. Many of our surrounding communities dedicate a much larger portion of their operating budgets to their park and creation facilities. These communities continue to draw in new families from other communities as well as keep the current population. As a commission, we would like to offer more community events and activities, but without at least maintaining the current budget that will not be possible. We would like to proposes an increase in our budget to enable us to continue, as well as, expand our programs. We would be happy to discuss our ideas with you about the future of our programs and facilities. Attached please find our current budget with no cuts and our recommended budget for 2011.

In closing, we feel that a decrease in our budget will be detrimental to the continued progress of recreation programming. Thank you for your time and consideration or our request.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Wallace
Executive Director
Norwood Recreation Commission

Cc: Norwood City Council, Jim Stith


Attached to the letter were copies of the 2011 Recreation Budget (same as the 2010 budget with no cuts) and the 2011 Recommended Budget, which has 4 increases totaling $4,500:

2010 Budget: Youth Athletics’ youth classes: -0-
2011 Recommended Budget: Youth Athletics’ youth classes - $1,500

2010 Budget: Victory Pool Salaries - $6,000
2011 Recommended Budget: Victory Pool Salaries - $7,000

2010 Budget: Burwood Pool Salaries - $6,000
2011 Recommended Budget: Burwood Pool Salaries - $7,000

2010 Budget: Office: Seniors Classes - $100
2011 Recommended Budget: Office: Adult/Seniors Classes - $1,000

Total 2010 Recreation Budget: $199,120
Total 2011 Recommended Budget: $204,120
Recommended increase: $4,500

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

City directors, departments asked for 15% reductions in expenses

Following is a letter and attachment Finance Committee Chairman Victor Schneider sent to specific City directors and department heads. Tomorrow we will publish one director’s written response to Mr. Schneider.


October 21, 2010

At the Finance meeting on October 19th, 2010 the budget was discussed. More specifically, the process for formulation of the budget was discussed. In years past, the Finance Committee has held meetings where department heads came and presented the various needs of the department. These meetings have been long and, at times, not as productive as necessary. Members of the Finance Committee have had to make decisions on funding for departments with limited working knowledge of the internal operations. This year, we would like to utilize a plan that helps eliminate unilateral decision-making based solely on how much money can be cut to balance the budget.

This letter is being sent to specific directors and department heads. Information should come through the Director if they have Department heads that work for them. If a Department head reports to a Board of Commission, they would present their materials to the Auditor’s office directly. The goal is for each to work with the Auditor’s Office to have necessary funds placed in the draft budget. After this information is compiled, the Finance Committee will review and make a recommendation to City Council.

The information for the draft budget is due Thursday, November 11th. This information should be submitted to the Auditor’s office. Attached you will find simple guidelines. As a Director or Department head, you should look closely at what the areas you are responsible for, and you will need to make sure that you have planned for the needs. It is your responsibility to make sure that all items that your department needs are covered in the information that you provide.

The city finances will be tight as they are with every other municipal, county and state government agency. If we work together, we can keep Norwood services fully operational.

Victor Schneider
City Council
Finance Committee Chairman

Attachment

Areas that are expected to submit information. Information should be compiled from each are of responsibility and submitted.

Mayor, Auditor. Law, Treasurer, Recreation Director, Health Commission, President of Council, Secretary to Civil Service

2010 Budget Guidelines

Submit information to Auditor’s office no later than November 11th.

15% reduction in all expense areas
2011 payroll data will be inputted for you at current staffing levels
Anticipate staffing changes and expenses that could be incurred - provide an outline of potential staffing changes.
Include capital expense items that you know are an absolute necessity
Include information on any contracts that you administer. Increased anticipated or discounts?

Include documentation that you feel will be helpful in the Finance Committee’s review of your budget submission.

Monday, November 15, 2010

This week at the Norwood Branch Library

Wednesday, November 17th
Movers & Shakers
10 a.m., Ages 1-4 with adult

Preschool Storytime
10:30 a.m., Ages 3-6 With Adult

Friday, November 19th
Friday Morning Book Club
The Last Time I Saw You
By Elizabeth Berg
10:30 a.m.

For more information, call 369-6037.

Friday, November 12, 2010

PSA from NPD: Beware coyotes sighted in Norwood

The Norwood Police Department would like to make citizens aware of several coyote sightings in Norwood. Recently, coyotes have been spotted in the area of Waterworks Park and Norwood Public Works at the dead end of Harris Ave. There have been no reports of any attacks on people or pets. Residents are urged to keep an extra watch on their pets, especially residents living near wooded areas. The city is currently working on a plan to eradicate this problem. Anyone spotting a coyote should contact the Norwood Police Department at 458-4520.

Lt. Tom Williams
Norwood Police Department


Following are recommendations for residents and pet owners from this New York State government website:


Coyotes are seen in both developed and rural areas. Homeowners should take sensible precautions to avoid attracting coyotes to their property. As highlighted in the April 2005 issue of the New York State Conservationist, DEC has issued the following recommendations to reduce the chances for a negative encounter with a coyote:
  1. Never feed or attempt to get close to a coyote.
  2. Keep pets under control, and be sure not to leave them out at night. Coyotes may kill or injure a pet, especially small dogs and cats. Walk your dog on a leash and accompany your pet outside, especially at night. Provide secure shelters for poultry, rabbits, and other vulnerable animals.
  3. Control other sources of food that may attract a coyote-keep your trash secure and compost bins covered; closely monitor your bird feeders to ensure that they are not attracting other wildlife, and keep dog and cat food bowls inside. Coyotes that rely on wild food sources remain wild and wary of people.
  4. Coyotes like areas where they can hide, yet still be near food. You can help by thinning brushy areas in your yard and closing off crawl spaces. Coyotes may use areas under buildings for resting or raising young.
  5. If others in your neighborhood are attracting coyotes, tell them about the hazards posed by coyotes and ask them to take the measures recommended above.
  6. Be Cautious and Sensible
  7. People should never try to get close to coyotes. Any coyote that shows unusual boldness or acts tame should be avoided. Coyote attacks directed toward people have occurred in the western United States. However, aggressive coyote behavior has also been reported in the eastern United States and in New York State.

Is this new ordinance unconstitutional?

Below is an ordinance that passed unanimously at the Tuesday night’s City Council meeting. The ordinance affects the hours of operation of public dances, dance halls, and skating rinks. Currently, there are no dance halls in Norwood, and there is only one skating rink, the Fun Factory on Sherman Avenue. It is the only business affected by the ordinance.

Speaking against the ordinance at Tuesday night’s meeting was Johanna Hutchins, attorney for Scott Winter, owner of the Fun Factory. She argued both orally and in a letter to City Council that the ordinance is unconstitutional. Click here for excerpts from her 3-page letter. Interestingly, she does not cite which part/parts of the U.S. constitution support her arguments.

What do you think? Would the Fun Factory prevail in a lawsuit based on the unconstitutionality of this ordinance?


Ordinance 41

ORDINANCE ADOPTING SECTION 747.05 OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES
OF THE CITY OF NORWOOD, OHIO,
ENTITLED “HOURS OF OPERATION”


Whereas, Public Dances and Roller Skating rinks are places where large number of people gather; and

WHEREAS, Council desires to protect such large gatherings from the threat of injury due to fire and other hazards; and

WHEREAS, Such large gatherings have an impact on the surrounding neighborhood due to parking, traffic, and noise issues; and

WHEREAS, Council desires to adopt regulations which mitigate the impact of such gatherings on the surrounding community; now therefore;

BE IT ORDAINED by the Council of the City of Norwood, State of Ohio that:

SECTION 1. Section 747.05 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Norwood, Ohio, entitled “Hours of Operation” is hereby adopted to read as follows:

747.05 HOURS OF OPERATION

(a) Public roller skating rinks or arenas shall operate only between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 a.m. on the same day.

(b) Public dances and public dance halls shall operate only between the hours of 2:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m.

SECTION 2. This ordinance shall go into effect on the earliest date allowed by law.

Joseph-Beth files Chapter 11 bankruptcy

According to the Enquirer, Joseph-Beth Booksellers filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy yesterday. The company is closing its stores in Charlotte, N.C., Pittsburgh, Cleveland, and Nashville but said it plans to keep the Rookwood Pavilion store open. In a news release, the company said, “The continuing challenges for the book industry; a weak economy and resulting sales decline, along with economic forecasts for the first half of 2011 represent significant challenges to Joseph-Beth and the entire retail industry.” Wouldn’t it be awful if we lose this gem?

Thursday, November 11, 2010

October 2010 NFD Activities and Statistics Report

A monthly feature

A. Total of emergency responses for the month of October = 403

Medic Runs = 273
Fire Runs = 13 (Building, Brush, etc.)
Average Response Time on Runs = 3 minutes, 15 seconds (city-wide)

Number of incidents by type:
Fire Runs – 13 - (Building, Brush, etc.)
Overpressure, Explosion - 0
Rescue & Medic Unit Assists – 60 - (lock-in, extrications, traffic accidents, etc.)
Hazardous Conditions (no fire) -6 - (power lines down, arcing, spills, etc.)
Service Call - 18 - (smoke removal)
Good Intent - 15 - (odor of smoke, controlled burning)
False Alarms – 18 - (false alarms, system malfunctions, smoke detector activated, etc.)
Severe Weather - 0
Special Incident - 0

B. Fire Hydrant Activity
Hydrant Activity not available for October

C. Bureau of Fire Safety Activities = 536
Total Inspections – 109 - (residential, schools, churches, businesses)
Total Violations – issued 153
Total Violations – corrected 157
Total Block Inspection - Unit #’s 1, 2, 3 - Rental & multi-family: 12
Referrals to Health and Building Depts. - 9
Additional Activities - 96

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Tonight at 6:00 p.m.: Channel 9 exclusive “Inside Norwood’s drug problem”

One of us just ran into Mayor Williams outside City Hall, and he alerted us that tonight at 6:00 p.m., Channel 9 is airing a segment on Norwood’s war against drugs. The NPD’s Drug Task Force will be highlighted. Click here for a preview from Channel 9's website.

October report for Keep Our Property Safe Program

In October the KOPS (Police, Building & Property Maintenance, Fire and Health Departments) visited the following eleven problem properties that were selected by the Norwood Police Department as habitual offenders:

1929 Crown Ave............... 4606 Carter Ave.
1958 Maple Ave................2234 Harper Ave.
1960 Maple Ave............... 5234 Hunter Ave.
1962 Maple Ave............... 4175 Forest Ave.
2000 Maple Ave.............. 2310 Jefferson Ave.
4524 Carter Ave............... 3925 Ivanhoe Ave.
5128 Warren Ave.

These inspections resulted in all properties being issued orders.

Respectfully Submitted,

Gerry Stoker, Building Commissioner
City of Norwood

Tuesday, November 09, 2010

Free Home Safety Class at Norwood Health Dept.

Norwood Health Commission Pamela Walker-Bauer sent us the following information about next month's free Home Safety Class:

Where: Norwood Health Department
2059 Sherman Ave., Norwood, OH 45212

When: Wednesday December 8th from 9 to 11 A.M.

What: Cincinnati Children’s and the Norwood Health Department have partnered together to offer a free injury prevention presentation geared to providing local parents education on the following subjects:

· Home safety
· Helmet safety
· Falls safety
· Water safety
· Fire/burn safety
· Poison safety

Space is limited so you must register to attend at 458-4600. Those who attend this 2-hour training will receive special items including: pack-n-play, car seat, fire extinguisher, smoke detector, and a home safety kit.

Monday, November 08, 2010

2010 Norwood Leaf Collection Schedule

November
1st - Thursday Garbage Route
2nd -Thursday Garbage Route
3rd - Friday Garbage Route
4th - Monday Garbage Route
5th - Monday Garbage Route
8th - Tuesday Garbage Route
9th - Wednesday Garbage Route
10th - Tuesday Garbage Route
12th - Tuesday Garbage Route
15th - Wednesday Garbage Route
16th - Thursday Garbage Route
17th - Friday Garbage Route
18th - Monday Garbage Route
19th - Monday Garbage Route
22nd - Tuesday Garbage Route
23rd - Tuesday Garbage Route
24th - Tuesday Garbage Route
29th - Tuesday Garbage Route
30th - Tuesday Garbage Route


December
1st - Wednesday Garbage Route
2nd - Wednesday Garbage Route
3rd - Thursday Garbage Route
6th - Friday Garbage Route
7th - Friday Garbage Route
8th - Tuesday Garbage Route
9th - Friday Garbage Route
10th - Friday Garbage Route
13th - Tuesday Garbage Route

This week at the Norwood Branch Library

Wednesday, November 10th
Movers and Shakers
10 a.m.
Ages 1-4 with Adult

Preschool Storytime
10:30 a.m.
Ages 3-6 with Adult

Saturday, November 13th
Family Game Day
2-5 p.m., All Ages

Lego Club
3 p.m., Ages 5-12

For more information, call 369-6037.

Friday, November 05, 2010

Just in: Photo of suspect in wheelchair ramp theft

Suspect John Davis AKA John Craig

Above is a photo of the suspect wanted in connection with the theft of the wheelchair ramp on Glenside Ave. last month. His name is John Davis alias John Craig. He is a male white, 31 yrs. Old, 5’9”, 180 lbs. with brown eyes and brown hair. He has 18 warrants out for his arrest, including one for Receiving Stolen Property through our department in connection with the wheelchair ramp theft. He is known to frequent the areas around Hunter Ave. and Park Ave.

Det. Mike Huston worked quickly to locate the wheelchair ramp the day after it was reported stolen. The ramp was located at a recycle company on North Bend Rd. It was from this work that led to the charge of RSP. Det. Huston’s efforts also assisted Cincinnati Police Detectives with their investigation in which Davis was a suspect in several similar incidents leading to several more charges. Anyone having information on the whereabouts of John Davis, please call Norwood Police at 458-4520 or Crimestoppers at 352-3040.

Lt. Tom Williams, Jr.
Norwood Police Dept.

Free training for Tristate Medical Reserve Corps


Join other community volunteers at:

Introduction to the Tristate
(Cincinnati-Hamilton County)
Medical Reserve Corps

Tuesday, December 7, 2010
6:00PM-8:00PM

Norwood Health Department
2059 Sherman Avenue
Norwood, OH 45212

Learn more about the TMRC
and Public Health Points of Dispensing
(POD)

To register:
call 513-458-4600 or
email info@norwoodhealth.org
You don’t have to be medically trained to join.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
To learn more about the Tristate Medical Reserve Corps, please visit www.swoph.org/tmrc.htm

Tristate Medical Reserve Corps interview with Bill Graff

Following is an interview Norwood resident Bill Graff did with Tristate Medical Reserve Corps shortly before he passed away in September. Bill and his wife Vivian were long time volunteers for TMRC. The interview is featured in the October TMRC newsletter. We want to thank Norwood Health Commissioner Pamela Walker-Bauer for sending it to us.


Tell us about yourself.

We are married with 3 grown children. We retired from the auto industry after 30 years. We moved to Norwood, OH in 2001 and restored a 100 year old Queen Ann Victorian House.

How long have you been involved in the TMRC?
3 years.

What advice would you give other TMRC volunteers?
Stay in involved and take some extra courses to stay up to date and informed. We don't have a medical background, but we do have a background in support and leadership roles that aid in making whole systems work smoothly.

Has being in the TMRC changed your perception of public health and your role in your community?
We have made many friends and enjoyed being able to serve as needed. Public health is like an invisible force, and many people never have any interaction with it in their life. But it's there working and ready to spring in action as needed. We are very fortunate to have the Norwood Health Department. We have volunteered as often as they need us and enjoyed the opportunity.

Thursday, November 04, 2010

$10,000 bond for man caught “finding” $140 at Norwood Kroger

Over the weekend, Norwood resident Wayne Matthews was arrested after a witness gave Norwood police a description of a man who allegedly snatched $140 dropped unknowingly by a woman in the Kroger parking lot. Norwood police caught up with Matthews and another man a block away. Initially, he denied finding the dropped cash but wound up confessing when it was discovered in his shoe. The NPD’s Lt. Tom Williams said the money was returned to the woman after Matthews was arrested. Interestingly, the Enquirer states he was charged only with obstruction of official business and not theft, and his bond was set Monday at $10,000.

Checks stolen from Mills Ave. mail box

700 WLW is reporting that after a Mills Avenue resident put checks in her mail box to be picked up, they were stolen and later used to purchase a gift card and clothing at the Burlington Coat Factory on Ridge Road in Columbia Township on October 21st. WLW has posted two photos of a woman making the purchases. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Hamilton County Sherriffs Dept. or Crimestoppers at 513-352-3040.

Wednesday, November 03, 2010

Spaghetti Dinner at Cornerstone Christian Academy

This Thursday, November 4, at 6:00 p.m., Cornerstone Christian Academy at 4255 Ashland Avenue in Norwood will be hosting it's 2nd Annual Spaghetti Dinner to benefit the school's general fund. Over 40 items will be auctioned. Admission is $5 for adults and $2 for children. Portraits will be taken for $5. Tickets will be sold for auction items. Auction items will be listed soon at the academy’s website.

Alicia Reese wins Ohio District 33

According to election results on the Hamilton County Board of Elections website, Democrat Alicia Reese defeated Norwood City Auditor Jim Stith and two other candidates for District 33 state representative with 68.5% of the vote. Is anyone surprised Steve Chabot won his U.S. House seat back from Steve Driehaus? Overall, are you pleased or disappointed with the election results?

Tuesday, November 02, 2010

Election Day poll

If you’ve voted today, how was the traffic at your polling place? Before we head out to vote, we thought we’d post one of our unscientific polls for a little Election Day diversion. Regardless of who you’re supporting for Ohio District #33 State Representative, which candidate do you think will win the race?

Which candidate will win the race?
Alicia Reese (D)
Jim Stith (R)
pollcode.com free polls

Monday, November 01, 2010

Upside down flag stolen from Hazel Avenue

According to Channel 5, Norwood police charged ex-Marine Bryan Huff last Tuesday with theft and trespassing for stealing a flag flying upside down at a Hazel Avenue property. The U.S. Flag Code states that "The flag should never be displayed with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property." Seeing the display as “disrespect and disregard,” Huff said he removed the flag and took it with him. The homeowner, a Navy veteran, told Channel 5 he feels he’s under attack in his neighborhood and hung the flat upside down because he feels he’s in distress. Huff said he understands the homeowner has a right to do that but added, “I have the right to go take it down and deal with the consequences.”

This week at the Norwood Branch Library

Monday, November 1
America I AM Reading Program
Read a book related to African or African American history or culture and receive a voucher for one free admission to Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal's exhibit, America I AM: The African American Imprint.
9:00 a.m. Open to children and teens, 12th grade or younger.

Wednesday, November 3
Movers & Shakers
Storytime: sing, dance, move!
10:00-10:30 a.m., Ages 1-4

Preschool Storytime
Stories, songs, and a craft!
10:30-11:00 a.m., Ages 3-6


For more information, call 369-6037.