March 4, 2013 Community Development Meeting @ 5:30p.m.
March 12, 2013 Norwood City Council Meeting @ 7:30p.m.
March 19, 2013 Finance Committee Meeting @ 6:30p.m.
March 26, 2013 Norwood City Council Meeting @ 7:30p.m.
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
WHAT IS TIF MONEY?
On Tuesday February 26, I attended Norwood City Council Meeting. My purpose for going was to read a poem about Black History. I left with a question.......What is TIF? At the meeting this these three little letters were injected into each development project that was voted in and voted on. We here at Norwood News and Views think we are smart but even we were left wondering what those three letters meant and how does it apply to me and my wallet?(if at all) So after research the most common sense understanding I found came from Ohio State University.
Gregory A. Davis
Extension Specialist, Community Development
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) provides local governments with a way to fund public infrastructure improvements (such as roadways, bridges, ditches, water, and sewer lines) that are associated with new development. TIF programs have been widely popular since states began authorizing their use in the 1950s. According to the Tax Increment Finance Coalition, 49 states have enabled local governments to designate TIF districts to finance public infrastructure in some manner or another. Local governments in Ohio are provided authority to redirect funds for such improvements through Ohio Revised Code (ORC) 5709.40-5709.43 for municipalities; 5709.73-5709.74 for townships; and 5709.77-5709.79 for counties.
Because Ohio�s Tax Increment Financing program (TIF) is designed to encourage new investment, it is considered by many as an economic development tool. Similar to the Ohio Enterprise Zone (EZ) program, the TIF program enables counties, municipalities, and townships to exempt from real property taxation the new value added to a parcel or group of parcels as a result of new property investment. This, however, is the extent of the similarities between the EZ program and TIF. Unlike the EZ program, TIF can be used with residential development. Another difference involves the exemption associated with a TIF. The EZ program abates taxes, whereas TIF does not change the taxpayer�s tax liability or the valuation of the taxpayer�s property. Instead, TIF enables the taxpayer to make payments to a special fund in an amount equal to the property tax liability. These payments in lieu of taxes (also referred to as PILOTs) are used by the local government to retire debt incurred for the infrastructure improvements needed to support the new real property investment.
For more information on Ohio�s Enterprise Zone Program, refer to CDFS-1552-96 (ohioline.osu.edu/cd-fact/1552.html).
Local legislative authorities exercise use of this program at their discretion. State enabling legislation provides the general framework under which TIF can be used, but local governments are afforded the freedom to decide where and when to implement TIF.
To use TIF, improvements to public infrastructure necessary for proposed new investment must first be declared to have a �public purpose� by local authorities. According to the Ohio Revised Code, �public infrastructure� is considered:
TIF can be used to finance such public infrastructure serving new investment on one parcel or a number of parcels totaling up to 300 contiguous acres. A possible application of TIF is shown in the following example:
Assume a developer has 20 acres on which new homes would be built, but the proposed new investment would not be feasible without the improvement to existing roadway, water, sewer, or other utilities. Ordinarily, such infrastructure improvements are tied to a capital improvements plan, which is usually long-range in nature. If the community was in need of additional new housing but did not have financial reserves in place to finance the needed infrastructure improvements, local officials would be faced with quite a dilemma.
TIF provides for the exemption of taxes associated with the increased value of the proposed development. It also provides for the creation of a special fund (a debt retirement fund) that is designed to accept a portion of the new taxes generated from the proposed new development. Up to 75% of the new taxes associated with the increased valuation resulting from the new investment can be exempted for up to 10 years. With formal concurrence from the boards of the affected school districts, up to 100% of the new taxes can be exempted for up to 30 years.
If, in this example, 75% of the new real property taxes associated with the new investment are TIFed for 10 years, then the value of the property tax exempted (in this case 75% of the tax liability associated with the increase in real property valuation) is redirected, or Paid-in-Lieu of Taxes by the taxpayer (PILOT) to a special fund set up by the county auditor (see the example below). Payments to this special fund are drawn down to retire the infrastructure debt incurred by local government. PILOTs are made at the same time property taxes are due and cannot exceed the annual debt service of the notes or bonds used to finance the public infrastructure improvements.
Since TIF debt is not typically considered part of a local government�s debt load, local officials may find TIF an appealing way to finance needed public infrastructure. Such infrastructure can be financed without asking residents for a tax increase. Likewise, a portion of the new taxes associated with new investment may still be paid. In short, improvements can be made to accommodate new investment without the political expense associated with short-term tax increases to fund needed infrastructure.
(Includes Township Boards of Trustees, County Boards of Commissioners, and Municipal Councils)
Tax Increment Financing provides local governments with a mechanism for funding a variety of public infrastructure improvements needed to stimulate private investment or meet growing community needs without raising taxes. The infrastructure financing program requires significant communication and coordination among a variety of players and levels of government, as well as analysis and planning. As such, the economic development tool probably ranks among the more administratively complex programs available to local legislative authorities. Many of the references on this topic cite the importance of working with legal counsel when working with TIF.
�A Review of Tax Increment Financing Laws,� in Craig�L. Johnson and Joyce Y. Man, Tax Increment Financing, State University of New York Press, 2001.
Columbus Dispatch, May 9, 2005
www.knowledgeplex.org/news/90556.html
�Don�t Let Your TIF Cause a Tiff,� in Finley�s Ohio Municipal Service, July/August 2003, 15(4).
Ohio Department of Development, Tax Increment Financing, www.odod.state.oh.us/TIFSummary1.31.pdf
Ohio Revised Code, (Online) onlinedocs.andersonpublishing.com/revisedcode/index.cfm
Tax Increment Finance Coalition. www.cdfa.net/cdfa/cdfaweb.nsf/pages/tifcoverview.html
The Ohio Enterprise Zone Program. Ohio State University Extension Factsheet, CDFS-1552-96
ohioline.osu.edu/cd-fact/1552.html
Click here for PDF version of this Fact Sheet.
Ohio State University Extension Fact Sheet
Community Development
1050 Carmack Rd, Columbus, Ohio 43210-1002
Ohio�s Tax Increment Financing Program
CD-1559-06
Gregory A. Davis
Extension Specialist, Community Development
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) provides local governments with a way to fund public infrastructure improvements (such as roadways, bridges, ditches, water, and sewer lines) that are associated with new development. TIF programs have been widely popular since states began authorizing their use in the 1950s. According to the Tax Increment Finance Coalition, 49 states have enabled local governments to designate TIF districts to finance public infrastructure in some manner or another. Local governments in Ohio are provided authority to redirect funds for such improvements through Ohio Revised Code (ORC) 5709.40-5709.43 for municipalities; 5709.73-5709.74 for townships; and 5709.77-5709.79 for counties.
What Is Tax Increment Financing?
Because Ohio�s Tax Increment Financing program (TIF) is designed to encourage new investment, it is considered by many as an economic development tool. Similar to the Ohio Enterprise Zone (EZ) program, the TIF program enables counties, municipalities, and townships to exempt from real property taxation the new value added to a parcel or group of parcels as a result of new property investment. This, however, is the extent of the similarities between the EZ program and TIF. Unlike the EZ program, TIF can be used with residential development. Another difference involves the exemption associated with a TIF. The EZ program abates taxes, whereas TIF does not change the taxpayer�s tax liability or the valuation of the taxpayer�s property. Instead, TIF enables the taxpayer to make payments to a special fund in an amount equal to the property tax liability. These payments in lieu of taxes (also referred to as PILOTs) are used by the local government to retire debt incurred for the infrastructure improvements needed to support the new real property investment.
For more information on Ohio�s Enterprise Zone Program, refer to CDFS-1552-96 (ohioline.osu.edu/cd-fact/1552.html).
How Does Tax Increment Financing work?
Local legislative authorities exercise use of this program at their discretion. State enabling legislation provides the general framework under which TIF can be used, but local governments are afforded the freedom to decide where and when to implement TIF.
To use TIF, improvements to public infrastructure necessary for proposed new investment must first be declared to have a �public purpose� by local authorities. According to the Ohio Revised Code, �public infrastructure� is considered:
- Public roads and highways.
- Water and sewer lines.
- Environmental remediation.
- Land acquisition.
- Demolition (including demolition on private property deemed necessary for economic development).
- Storm water and flood remediation (including storm water and flood remediation on private property deemed necessary for public health, safety, and welfare).
- Gas, electric, and telecommunication services.
- Public waterway development.
TIF can be used to finance such public infrastructure serving new investment on one parcel or a number of parcels totaling up to 300 contiguous acres. A possible application of TIF is shown in the following example:
Assume a developer has 20 acres on which new homes would be built, but the proposed new investment would not be feasible without the improvement to existing roadway, water, sewer, or other utilities. Ordinarily, such infrastructure improvements are tied to a capital improvements plan, which is usually long-range in nature. If the community was in need of additional new housing but did not have financial reserves in place to finance the needed infrastructure improvements, local officials would be faced with quite a dilemma.
TIF provides for the exemption of taxes associated with the increased value of the proposed development. It also provides for the creation of a special fund (a debt retirement fund) that is designed to accept a portion of the new taxes generated from the proposed new development. Up to 75% of the new taxes associated with the increased valuation resulting from the new investment can be exempted for up to 10 years. With formal concurrence from the boards of the affected school districts, up to 100% of the new taxes can be exempted for up to 30 years.
If, in this example, 75% of the new real property taxes associated with the new investment are TIFed for 10 years, then the value of the property tax exempted (in this case 75% of the tax liability associated with the increase in real property valuation) is redirected, or Paid-in-Lieu of Taxes by the taxpayer (PILOT) to a special fund set up by the county auditor (see the example below). Payments to this special fund are drawn down to retire the infrastructure debt incurred by local government. PILOTs are made at the same time property taxes are due and cannot exceed the annual debt service of the notes or bonds used to finance the public infrastructure improvements.
Since TIF debt is not typically considered part of a local government�s debt load, local officials may find TIF an appealing way to finance needed public infrastructure. Such infrastructure can be financed without asking residents for a tax increase. Likewise, a portion of the new taxes associated with new investment may still be paid. In short, improvements can be made to accommodate new investment without the political expense associated with short-term tax increases to fund needed infrastructure.
| Real Property | Valuation |
| 20 acres containing 20 new homes | $ 2,010,000 |
| 20 acres (without homes) | $10,000 |
| Difference in value as a result of investment | $ 2,000,000 |
| Percentage of taxable value exempted (75%) | x 0.75 |
| Value of new investment on which taxes are redirected to retire debt for infrastructure | $ 1,500,000 |
| Value of new investment on which taxes are paid to county auditor in normal manner | $ 500,000 |
What Are TIF Roles and Responsibilities?
Local Legislative Authorities
(Includes Township Boards of Trustees, County Boards of Commissioners, and Municipal Councils)
- Determine the costs of the public infrastructure under consideration and the value of the proposed exemptions (proposed exemption must generate revenue necessary to retire associated debt).
- Propose resolution or ordinance declaring public infrastructure improvements to be a public purpose necessary for the development of certain parcels of land within their jurisdiction.
- Give notice of public hearing at least 30 days prior to the public hearing.
- Provide a detailed description of the anticipated improvements including estimates of true investment for such improvements to affected school boards when exempted amounts exceed 75% and/or district life exceeds 10 years�� this must be done within 45 days of adopting such a resolution or ordinance.
- Conduct a public hearing within 30 days before adopting the proposed resolution or ordinance.
- Adopt the proposed resolution or ordinance (townships: by unanimous vote).
- Execute a revenue-sharing agreement within six months of adopting the ordinance (applies only to municipalities collecting an income tax) with affected school districts in cases where the new investment results in annual payroll for new employees of $1,000,000 or more.
- If a compensation agreement is not reached within six months, ORC provides for a mandatory 50/50 sharing between the municipality and its affected city, village, or exempted school district
- Submit TIF-related and PILOT agreement to ODOD within 15 days of enactment of the TIF.
- Submit a status report by March 31 each year in which a TIF district is in effect to the Director of Development. Report describes such things as the public infrastructure improvements and housing renovations financed with redirected property taxes; changes in private investment resulting from the TIF; and a summary of payments made in lieu of taxes
County Auditor
- Works with local legislative authorities to obtain the market value and taxable value of the proposed new real property investment.
- Works with local legislative authorities to determine projected tax revenues resulting from the proposed new real property investment.
Property Owner
- Enters into a contract with the local legislative authority describing the obligation to make PILOTs.
County Treasurer
- Creates tax equivalent account to accept the PILOTs.
School Board
- Approves resolutions that provide for exempted percentages of more than 75% and/or a district life of more than 10 years.
- May disapprove percentages, term, or both.
- Proposes compensation percentage in resolution to legislative authority within 14 days of formal approval of proposed resolution or ordinance.
- Failure to certify such a resolution to legislative authority permits the adoption of the proposed resolution or ordinance with no provision for a compensation percentage for the affected school districts.
Conclusion
Tax Increment Financing provides local governments with a mechanism for funding a variety of public infrastructure improvements needed to stimulate private investment or meet growing community needs without raising taxes. The infrastructure financing program requires significant communication and coordination among a variety of players and levels of government, as well as analysis and planning. As such, the economic development tool probably ranks among the more administratively complex programs available to local legislative authorities. Many of the references on this topic cite the importance of working with legal counsel when working with TIF.
References
�A Review of Tax Increment Financing Laws,� in Craig�L. Johnson and Joyce Y. Man, Tax Increment Financing, State University of New York Press, 2001.
Columbus Dispatch, May 9, 2005
www.knowledgeplex.org/news/90556.html
�Don�t Let Your TIF Cause a Tiff,� in Finley�s Ohio Municipal Service, July/August 2003, 15(4).
Ohio Department of Development, Tax Increment Financing, www.odod.state.oh.us/TIFSummary1.31.pdf
Ohio Revised Code, (Online) onlinedocs.andersonpublishing.com/revisedcode/index.cfm
Tax Increment Finance Coalition. www.cdfa.net/cdfa/cdfaweb.nsf/pages/tifcoverview.html
The Ohio Enterprise Zone Program. Ohio State University Extension Factsheet, CDFS-1552-96
ohioline.osu.edu/cd-fact/1552.html
Click here for PDF version of this Fact Sheet.
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Norwood Teens Reeking Havoc
NORWOOD — Three juveniles were arrested Monday and charged with robbing a 78-year-old woman.
Police say the victim was walking on Elsmere Avenue at around 10:30 a.m. Monday when she was approached from behind by one suspect. Police say he tried pulling her purse from her, knocking her to the ground and causing facial injuries. The suspect then ran off with the purse.
A witness called police and two suspects, a 15-year-old male and a 14-year-old female, were arrested at the scene. The third suspect, a 15-year-old male, was arrested at a nearby residence.
All three suspects were charged with robbery.
JUST A THOUGHT
At Norwood News and Views we think serious action needs to be taken against the teenagers. Simply locking them up is not the answer. However that is all the City of Norwood knows how to do. The Mayors court in this City is there for one reason and that is to make money. It is not there to lift up the standards of Norwood. It is not there to make the quality of life better in Norwood. It is not there to teach these teenagers how to be better people. It is not there to make these teenagers see the error of their ways. Nope, that Mayors Court is there for money. Nothing more nothing less. They could care less about these teens and that senior lady.
However, the teens will be out and about in Norwood in no time. They will be roaming a neighborhood near you this summer. They will be out hanging on Sherman Avenue. They will be standing in front of the High School at dismissal time. They will be tauting the police officers as they ride by. They will be smoking weed and blunts. This is natural and normal for them.
Norwood News and Views hope our senior resident is okay and doing better. For someone to violate a person is terrible, but at the age of 78 it is deplorable! The scars that are left from this will effect her the rest of her life. Some physical scars may go away, but the emotional scars will be there forever. At 10:30 a.m. on a Monday, the teens were suppose to be in school.
Why were the teens not in school? Why were they left to walk the streets and terrorize the community? Where was the police to stop them and demand they get in school or off the streets? Why didn't the police ride by and offer the lady a ride to where ever she was going? Why don't we have transportation for our seniors? Why can't our seniors pick up their phones and make a call and be transported to their destination? Why can't we offer our seniors a safer way of life? These are questions I will be asking our Mayor and City Council Members.
It was this senior yesterday if we don't take action it could be our loved one or worst case scenario it could be us. And it may not be facial injuries it may result in death.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
XAVIER POLICE & NORWOOD POLICE =CORRUPTION
Advertisement
Posted: 7:15 PM
Last Updated: 48 minutes ago
Last Updated: 48 minutes ago
NORWOOD, Ohio - Some Xavier students are worried police aren't informing them about the dangers in their neighborhood.
“This year alone I've heard gunshots at least six or seven times,” said Xavier junior Andrew Eluru.
Eluru only lives a few blocks from campus and says there have been several instances where he's feared for his safety.
“The week of Jan. 28 there were two shootings alone -- none of the incidents fortunately involved our students but we were never notified even though they occurred in Xavier neighborhoods,” said Eluru.
He's not the only student who wants more from the police department. Xavier university students started an online petition asking for more transparency from the police department.
"It was a twofold approach. It brought issues to light and it also allowed people to voice their frustration,” said student body president Seth Walsh.
The university already had an alert system in place that alerts 9,000 people within 30 seconds of emergencies.
Eluru says in his three years of being at the school, he's received two: one for a snow day and another for a computer virus. But police and Xavier officials say they plan on doing more to ensure student safety.
"What we are working to do is bridge that gap for public safety notices, our safety websites, and other means of communication," said Jeff Coleman, assistant vice president for audit and risk management at Xavier University.
"We try to walk a fine line between what we feel the students want to know and what is truly and eminent ongoing threat to students," added Coleman.
The sentiments are the same from many students 9 On Your Side spoke with on Tuesday. They love their school, but the neighborhoods near campus aren't the safest.
The police department says they are working to increase their transparency.
“This year alone I've heard gunshots at least six or seven times,” said Xavier junior Andrew Eluru.
Eluru only lives a few blocks from campus and says there have been several instances where he's feared for his safety.
“The week of Jan. 28 there were two shootings alone -- none of the incidents fortunately involved our students but we were never notified even though they occurred in Xavier neighborhoods,” said Eluru.
He's not the only student who wants more from the police department. Xavier university students started an online petition asking for more transparency from the police department.
"It was a twofold approach. It brought issues to light and it also allowed people to voice their frustration,” said student body president Seth Walsh.
The university already had an alert system in place that alerts 9,000 people within 30 seconds of emergencies.
Eluru says in his three years of being at the school, he's received two: one for a snow day and another for a computer virus. But police and Xavier officials say they plan on doing more to ensure student safety.
"What we are working to do is bridge that gap for public safety notices, our safety websites, and other means of communication," said Jeff Coleman, assistant vice president for audit and risk management at Xavier University.
"We try to walk a fine line between what we feel the students want to know and what is truly and eminent ongoing threat to students," added Coleman.
The sentiments are the same from many students 9 On Your Side spoke with on Tuesday. They love their school, but the neighborhoods near campus aren't the safest.
The police department says they are working to increase their transparency.
Read more: http://www.wcpo.com/dpp/news/region_central_cincinnati/norwood/xavier-students-worried-about-safety-near-campus#ixzz2LQId4o48
Norwood cop being sued for police brutality | Bill Cunningham - Cincinnati Reds - 700WLW - THE BIG ONE
Norwood cop being sued for police brutality | Bill Cunningham - Cincinnati Reds - 700WLW - THE BIG ONE
THIS IS THE EVERYDAY CULTURE OF NORWOOD. THIS IS WHAT THEY DO EACH AND EVERYDAY.
THE NORWOOD MAYOR AND THE NORWOOD CITY COUNCIL IS AWARE OF THE POLICE BRUTALITY YET THEY REMAIN SILENT.
THEY HAVE ANOTHER TAX LEVY ON THE BALLOT IN NOVEMBER 2013. PLEASE VOTE NO ON THIS LEVY, THEY NEED MONEY TO PAY FOR THE LAWSUITS.
THIS WILL NOT STOP! IT IS IN THEIR BLOOD, THEY DO NOT KNOW HOW TO ACT LIKE PUBLIC SERVANTS. THE CITY HAS ACCEPTED THIS BAD BEHAVIOR AS NORMAL POLICING.
XAVIER AND NORWOOD WORK HAND IN HAND. THEY HIDE THINGS, THEY DENY THINGS AND THEY ABUSE ANYONE THEY WANT TO.
DRUG TEST NEED TO BE DONE ON ALL OF THEM.
THE NORWOOD CITY LAWYER WORKS FOR JOE DIETERS IN THE HAMILTON COUNTY PROSECUTORS OFFICE. TALK ABOUT CONFLICT OF INTEREST.
THIS IS THE EVERYDAY CULTURE OF NORWOOD. THIS IS WHAT THEY DO EACH AND EVERYDAY.
THE NORWOOD MAYOR AND THE NORWOOD CITY COUNCIL IS AWARE OF THE POLICE BRUTALITY YET THEY REMAIN SILENT.
THEY HAVE ANOTHER TAX LEVY ON THE BALLOT IN NOVEMBER 2013. PLEASE VOTE NO ON THIS LEVY, THEY NEED MONEY TO PAY FOR THE LAWSUITS.
THIS WILL NOT STOP! IT IS IN THEIR BLOOD, THEY DO NOT KNOW HOW TO ACT LIKE PUBLIC SERVANTS. THE CITY HAS ACCEPTED THIS BAD BEHAVIOR AS NORMAL POLICING.
XAVIER AND NORWOOD WORK HAND IN HAND. THEY HIDE THINGS, THEY DENY THINGS AND THEY ABUSE ANYONE THEY WANT TO.
DRUG TEST NEED TO BE DONE ON ALL OF THEM.
THE NORWOOD CITY LAWYER WORKS FOR JOE DIETERS IN THE HAMILTON COUNTY PROSECUTORS OFFICE. TALK ABOUT CONFLICT OF INTEREST.
NORWOOD THE CITY OF CORRUPTION
NORWOOD POLICE SHAME ON YOU AND SHAME ON THE CITY ! !
THIS IS WHERE OUR TAX MONEY IS BEING SPENT. ON LAWSUITS.
"NO, NO, NO, TO THE TAX LEVY IN NOVEMBER"! ! ! ! !
Monday, February 18, 2013
IN NORWOOD PIZZA IS PRECIOUS
Norwood loves its' pizza. Another pizza company has opened its' doors in Surrey Square. Quick can you name 10 pizzas' companies in Norwood? This is the honor system so don't cheat. Now march set and go!
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Norwood Police Preying on People
Once again the Norwood Police is preying on its citizens. I(Yvonne) was 10 seconds from getting it on video. They noticed me and sped off. On Saturday Feb. 16, 2013 at 4:00pm I was returning from shopping. We decided to sit in the car for a moment and relax. My guest noticed a police car ride by and commented on it. We laughed it off and went about our goofing off. Ten minutes later the same police car ride by slowly. It pulls ahead of my car slow, I don't think the officers knew we were in the car. The officer then put his car in reverse and pulled back behind my car just enough to read my car license plates. At this time I sat up in my seat, camera phone in hand ready to get out and record what I was witnessing. As I sat up I think they noticed the moment in the car and sped off. It is rare to see a Norwood Police car with two officers in it. On this day it was. The driver was in uniform and the passenger was not. The passenger looked to be a detective, plain cloth officer or maybe the chief. Whoever the passenger was turned his body so that I could not see his face. Either way they were there looking for me. There were no other cars parked around me that could have been mistaken by what they were doing, reading my car license.
Norwood residents and Norwood News and Views readers I'm telling this to make everyone aware of what is going on in the Norwood Police Department. It is not pretty and someone has to say it. However, I am afraid, not enough to go away or shut up. I will not interact with the Norwood Police Department with out it being on audio or video. I have contacted someone about putting up video and audio camera on my home to record them at my door. I have learned that lesson. Just 10 seconds would have shown the world via YouTube what is really going in with the Norwood Police Department. They will be caught, it's just a matter of time. I'm asking the Norwood Police Department to leave me and my kids alone, stick to the oath you took to protect and serve.
Best regards,
Yvonne Collins
On another note I will be writting a blog about what happens to complaint forms when you turn them in. Stay tune.
On another note I will be writting a blog about what happens to complaint forms when you turn them in. Stay tune.
HEARTBEAT & HOUSES IN NORWOOD 4 SALE
Norwood News and Views would like to share a story. I stopped to speak with a neighbor I had not seen in a couple of weeks. I informed her of the Norwood Tax Levy that was on the ballot in November 2013. She told me she was putting her house up for sale and moving out of Norwood. This is a white lady that has lived in Norwood for years and years. She and her now deceased husband raised their children in Norwood. Soon as they were adults they moved out of Norwood. Now she wants out too. Due to health reasons, due to high property taxes and the decline in the quality of life in Norwood. She has lost her passion for Norwood, Ohio, a community that she once loved to call home. Her children left long ago. Her grandchildren are not near. Her husband is deceased, and so is her spirit.
I'm sad for her and myself. We both want out. We want out of a City that does not appreciate its' homeowners. Don't appreciate the folks that are footing the bill. If you notice the for sale signs in Norwood you would agree that alot of folks are getting out. There are hundreds of homes up for sale. Most are for sale at a reduced price. Homeowners are willing to take a lost just to get out. I'm willing to take a lost. My neighbor will take a lost. She is not happy with the community of Norwood and neither is a lot of folks, me included.
When you watch year after year your community go down it wears on your soul. It tugs at your heart as well as your wallet. Why should we care? If the Mayor of Norwood, Ohio and its City Council do not have the intelligence to make this City have a heart beat again it will flat line.
What it takes to make Norwood, Ohio have a heartbeat again is something the Mayor(Tom Williams) and the Norwood City Council is not willing to do. It's simple it's basic. Yet, the Mayor and City Council do not have the nerves or foresight to say it let alone act on it. The City of Norwood has a terrible reputation when it comes to diversity. Norwood, Ohio is not open to outsiders, the powers that be will not listen to new opinions, they are not interested in any inclusion. They want to keep Norwood,the Mayor, and City Council Members lilly white. They will not entertain the thought of diversity. The Mayor will never appoint a black to anything for any reason. Norwoods' Police Department and Fire Department will never have a black person on their staff. No black person will ever be considered for appointment in the Political Parties. Nor will any black be hired to work in the City of Norwood(except the water metor reader). Norwood has a Mayor that removes him-self when a black person speaks at City Council meetings. That is so inconsiderate.
Year after year the Norwood community, tax payers, and homeowners see this happening and it is starting to wear on them. All kinds of people make up the Norwood community. All kinds of things should be happening. All kinds of people should be welcomed to buy, rent, or own homes. Yet, people are fleeing. They are not willing to wait till the WHITES ONLY sign is taken down, nope they want out. Next time you drive around notice the for sales signs, notice the for rent signs. Then take a look at the people you see. Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, Blacks, Bi-racial, whites, young, poor, middle class, seniors, gay, straight, and everything in between. That is what the Norwood leadership should look like.
It's too bad that my white elderly neighbor does not feel good about Norwood. This city has lost a faithful resident. They should have done everything they could to keep her here. Keep her happy. Bend over backwards for her. Bend over backward for our seniors. Give them all they need and want. Nope she is gone, the for sale sign went up the next day. I'm going to miss her. I'm going to miss seeing her smiling face, her warm smile, her kind wave. If only I could wave a magic wand and place myself as the Mayor of Norwood, Ohio I know she would have stayed. I know the City would have a beating heart where there would be very few for sale signs. A place that is moving to a different beat. Awwwww its nice to imagine in between packing up the boxes to move out.
Friday, February 15, 2013
What is Going On?
Do you know of any happenings going on in the City of Norwood? Spring is here and more people will be getting out and about. Let Norwood News and Views know about any events or functions that will be going on in Norwood and surrounding area.
HorseShoe Casino will open March 4, 2013.
The Lumineers-PNC PAVILION SAT*MAY 4, 2013
Bogart's-2621 Vine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45219
Feb. 15 Corey Smith with ADAM EZRA GROUP
Feb. 16 Red Waiting Blue.......From the Vanishing Point
TAFT THEATER
March 1, 2013 JOE ROGAN
Cintas Center @ Xavier University
Feb. 17 Women's Basketball vs. Rhode Island @ 2pm
Feb. 23 Men's Basketball vs. VCU @ 2pm
Feb. 24 Piccadilly Circus @ 12 noon
Feb. 26 Men's Basketball vs. Memphis @ 7pm
HorseShoe Casino will open March 4, 2013.
The Lumineers-PNC PAVILION SAT*MAY 4, 2013
Bogart's-2621 Vine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45219
Feb. 15 Corey Smith with ADAM EZRA GROUP
Feb. 16 Red Waiting Blue.......From the Vanishing Point
TAFT THEATER
March 1, 2013 JOE ROGAN
Cintas Center @ Xavier University
Feb. 17 Women's Basketball vs. Rhode Island @ 2pm
Feb. 23 Men's Basketball vs. VCU @ 2pm
Feb. 24 Piccadilly Circus @ 12 noon
Feb. 26 Men's Basketball vs. Memphis @ 7pm
Domestic Committee Group in Norwood
Police and service groups come together to stop domestic violence. The Norwood Domestic Violence Committee met on Thursday at the city's firehouse.
Local 12's Angela Ingram has the ideas the group will use to fight the problem.
Last September, police arrested Jose Garcia Martinez for allegedly murdering his girlfriend, Gladis Son in their Norwood apartment. The act of domestic violence left the couple's little girl without parents - and it struck a cord with Lupe Hoyt of the Norwood Service League. "That's what prompted me to do something. Not only do we help feed people, but we also need to help them with other things that come up."
Hoyt contacted several organizations to form the Norwood Domestic Violence Committee. They've put out surveys to gain insight into how people in the city perceive the issue of domestic violence. "We reviewed them we discussed them."
The group also came up with a strategy for short term, intermediate, and long term help for victims - including guiding them to resources. "Refer them to an organization like Talbert House or the YWCA's programs."
Hoyt says what happened to Gladis Son was a tragedy - it's one she hopes the committee can stop from happening again. Not too long ago, another victim of domestic violence shared a story that bothered Hoyt. "She was trying to flip the phone to make a call for help and her husband grabbed the phone and broke it and I think that it's time that we look at how can we make a connection again in our community so that people don't end up losing their lives."
The committee is recruiting more people to help out. Hoyt is hoping to put out more surveys in neighborhood to gather information on domestic violence.
The Norwood Domestic Violence Committee meets again Friday, March eighth.
Local 12's Angela Ingram has the ideas the group will use to fight the problem.
Last September, police arrested Jose Garcia Martinez for allegedly murdering his girlfriend, Gladis Son in their Norwood apartment. The act of domestic violence left the couple's little girl without parents - and it struck a cord with Lupe Hoyt of the Norwood Service League. "That's what prompted me to do something. Not only do we help feed people, but we also need to help them with other things that come up."
Hoyt contacted several organizations to form the Norwood Domestic Violence Committee. They've put out surveys to gain insight into how people in the city perceive the issue of domestic violence. "We reviewed them we discussed them."
The group also came up with a strategy for short term, intermediate, and long term help for victims - including guiding them to resources. "Refer them to an organization like Talbert House or the YWCA's programs."
Hoyt says what happened to Gladis Son was a tragedy - it's one she hopes the committee can stop from happening again. Not too long ago, another victim of domestic violence shared a story that bothered Hoyt. "She was trying to flip the phone to make a call for help and her husband grabbed the phone and broke it and I think that it's time that we look at how can we make a connection again in our community so that people don't end up losing their lives."
The committee is recruiting more people to help out. Hoyt is hoping to put out more surveys in neighborhood to gather information on domestic violence.
The Norwood Domestic Violence Committee meets again Friday, March eighth.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Dates and Times
February 12, 2013
7:30pm Norwood City Council Meeting
February 19, 2013
6:30pm Finance Committee Meeting
February 26, 2013
7:30pm Norwood City Council Meeting
Norwood News and Views would like to invite all its readers to come to the meetings.
7:30pm Norwood City Council Meeting
February 19, 2013
6:30pm Finance Committee Meeting
February 26, 2013
7:30pm Norwood City Council Meeting
Norwood News and Views would like to invite all its readers to come to the meetings.
When Will Norwood Increase Transparency?
Increased Transparency In State Government
I don’t think I’m the only one who is tired of things getting sucked into the “black hole” of government. For example, at the federal level, Obamacare passed before Americans knew what was in it. Legislators weren’t able to gain feedback from their constituents to ensure they were representing them properly. We need a change in the way government is run. I cannot control the federal government, but I can influence government locally in Ohio and with my fellow House Republicans, we intend to start this new legislative cycle much differently than has been done in the past.
Under the leadership of House Speaker Bill Batchelder, the governmental process will be more transparent for Ohioans interested in impacting what we do at the Statehouse. Beginning this year, Ohioans will have the ability to watch hearings taking place in the Finance Committee, which I have been appointed to serve.
From your home, office, or mobile device, tune into OhioChannel.org or OhioHouse.gov to watch exactly what I am doing during committee. You can even e-mail or call my office during committee and give your opinion on a particular bill or subject. Never before have we had the ability for real-time communication on the business of the House Finance Committee and I am excited to be able to share this news with the 83rd House District.
The commitment to transparency the House Republicans have made for this General Assembly is unparalleled by previous general assemblies or the federal government and broadcasting committee hearings in real-time is the first step to meeting that goal. Another vital component of holding state legislators accountable is the ability to connect with constituents, an area House Republicans will not shy away from in the upcoming months. To understand the concerns and priorities of the 83rd House District, I will release a new online survey every few months. The first survey will gauge opinions on the economy and job creation in Northwest Ohio and is now available online.
I would appreciate constituents’ feedback on how I legislate within our district. Please call or visit me in the Columbus office, set up a meeting in the district, find me on the social media website, Facebook, or attend a town hall meeting. Civic organizations, church groups, school groups, or families and friends can also plan a day of tours and meetings with me in Columbus.
I am grateful to be part of the Ohio House of Representatives and look forward to serve you again. Reform is on the horizon; the operating budget, school funding and tax deductions are all issues House Republicans will be tackling. We have the ability to lead the way in government transparency, and I hope this gives constituents the tools needed to make their voices heard in the governmental process.
Under the leadership of House Speaker Bill Batchelder, the governmental process will be more transparent for Ohioans interested in impacting what we do at the Statehouse. Beginning this year, Ohioans will have the ability to watch hearings taking place in the Finance Committee, which I have been appointed to serve.
From your home, office, or mobile device, tune into OhioChannel.org or OhioHouse.gov to watch exactly what I am doing during committee. You can even e-mail or call my office during committee and give your opinion on a particular bill or subject. Never before have we had the ability for real-time communication on the business of the House Finance Committee and I am excited to be able to share this news with the 83rd House District.
The commitment to transparency the House Republicans have made for this General Assembly is unparalleled by previous general assemblies or the federal government and broadcasting committee hearings in real-time is the first step to meeting that goal. Another vital component of holding state legislators accountable is the ability to connect with constituents, an area House Republicans will not shy away from in the upcoming months. To understand the concerns and priorities of the 83rd House District, I will release a new online survey every few months. The first survey will gauge opinions on the economy and job creation in Northwest Ohio and is now available online.
I would appreciate constituents’ feedback on how I legislate within our district. Please call or visit me in the Columbus office, set up a meeting in the district, find me on the social media website, Facebook, or attend a town hall meeting. Civic organizations, church groups, school groups, or families and friends can also plan a day of tours and meetings with me in Columbus.
I am grateful to be part of the Ohio House of Representatives and look forward to serve you again. Reform is on the horizon; the operating budget, school funding and tax deductions are all issues House Republicans will be tackling. We have the ability to lead the way in government transparency, and I hope this gives constituents the tools needed to make their voices heard in the governmental process.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
1 WOMAN 1 MISSION
I'm 1 woman who is on 1 mission................TO VOTE THIS LEVY DOWN!
The nerve of the City of Norwood. This levy is nonsense! Your elected officials have the nerves to come back to you, the homeowners of Norwood and want you to foot the bill for their terrible leadership? I'm shocked and in dis-belief. I can't believe their nerves.
The city of Norwood has to pay out your tax dollars for a lawsuit because they kept a well known thug on the Police Force. Now they want more money from you and I?
They brag they are making more money off of Mayors' Court. Now they want more money from you and I?
The people working in these new developments will be using our roads and the city want you and I to pay for them?
I will be walking, dancing, riding my bike all over Norwood this summer to reach each and every homeowner to ask them to JUST SAY NO AND SEND A MESSAGE TO THE ELECTED OFFICIALS!
I love being 1 woman on 1 mission. You can join me. Call 513-731-5090 anytime.
The nerve of the City of Norwood. This levy is nonsense! Your elected officials have the nerves to come back to you, the homeowners of Norwood and want you to foot the bill for their terrible leadership? I'm shocked and in dis-belief. I can't believe their nerves.
The city of Norwood has to pay out your tax dollars for a lawsuit because they kept a well known thug on the Police Force. Now they want more money from you and I?
They brag they are making more money off of Mayors' Court. Now they want more money from you and I?
The people working in these new developments will be using our roads and the city want you and I to pay for them?
I will be walking, dancing, riding my bike all over Norwood this summer to reach each and every homeowner to ask them to JUST SAY NO AND SEND A MESSAGE TO THE ELECTED OFFICIALS!
I love being 1 woman on 1 mission. You can join me. Call 513-731-5090 anytime.
VOTE THIS LEVY DOWN!!!!
The city pay out money in Lawsuits. Won't tell the homeowner.
Just had a renewal in last election.
New Development all over Norwood.
10 year ten million Levy voted in for Norwood Schools.
15% Increase in Mayors Court Money
70% of the Budget goes to Polic and Fire Department
STOP ASKING THE HOMEOWNERS!!!!!
WE ARE TAXED ENOUGH ALREADY!!!!
NO...............NO.................NO
Type: Additional, 2 millage
Purpose: Streets
Term: Five years
Estimated annual revenue: $749,100
Estimated cost to $100,000 homeowner: $60.31
JUST SAY NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Just had a renewal in last election.
New Development all over Norwood.
10 year ten million Levy voted in for Norwood Schools.
15% Increase in Mayors Court Money
70% of the Budget goes to Polic and Fire Department
STOP ASKING THE HOMEOWNERS!!!!!
WE ARE TAXED ENOUGH ALREADY!!!!
NO...............NO.................NO
Non-School Tax Levies on the May Ballot
NorwoodType: Additional, 2 millage
Purpose: Streets
Term: Five years
Estimated annual revenue: $749,100
Estimated cost to $100,000 homeowner: $60.31
JUST SAY NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Some of Your Friends are Black?
If I had a dime for all the times white racist say, "Some of my best friends are black." I could buy a new car. If you are really serious that some of your best friends are black take this survey.
1. What was the last book you read by a black author?
2. When was the last time a black person sat at your dinner table and ate?
3. Name the last black play you went to see?
4. Name the last Rhythm and Blues music you personally played?
5. When was the last time you had to defend a black person and what was it for?
6. Look around do you work with a black person? If not do you think that is fair?
7. Have you ever dated a black person? Ever thought about it?
8. Would you ever adopt a black child?
9. Would you ever go to a black dance club?
10. Would you ever vote for a black person?
If 8 out of the 10 you could not answer, Your crutch of "Some of my best friends are black," has now be revoked.
Norwood News and Views welcomes all comments. Nothing will be edited or denied. Be honest, it's okay, I don't care either way.
1. What was the last book you read by a black author?
2. When was the last time a black person sat at your dinner table and ate?
3. Name the last black play you went to see?
4. Name the last Rhythm and Blues music you personally played?
5. When was the last time you had to defend a black person and what was it for?
6. Look around do you work with a black person? If not do you think that is fair?
7. Have you ever dated a black person? Ever thought about it?
8. Would you ever adopt a black child?
9. Would you ever go to a black dance club?
10. Would you ever vote for a black person?
If 8 out of the 10 you could not answer, Your crutch of "Some of my best friends are black," has now be revoked.
Norwood News and Views welcomes all comments. Nothing will be edited or denied. Be honest, it's okay, I don't care either way.
My Black is Beautiful
My Black is beautiful, strong, courageous.
Powerful beyond the simple imagination.
Others look on, their mouths open in fascination,
Cause my Black is beautiful, strong, courageous.
So beautiful is my Black that all the world springs from her seed.
In fact, if God ever married, she would be His queen.
The Europeans come and like what they'd seen.
Black beauty ruling over diamonds and things.
Even saw the people and the strength they possessed.
So much, they took us and yall know the rest.
But still inside, Black kings and queens reigned.
Forced to listen to ignorant things.
But if the lion is the king of the jungle,Why is my Black king wearing his mane?
Or just because I'm Black, I need to be tamed.
Stereotypically, yet hypocritically, society judges me so critically.
Saying, "He's only good if he's an athlete physically,
Cause his Black can never make it in the real world mentally."
But actually, the only challenge right here is inside of me.
So I pour out my heart and hope my Black hears my plea!!
Let's go show the people who ruled the world for centuries!!
Pharoahs, kings, and queens over everything.
My Black is beautiful, strong, courageous.
That's why my Black is president over the nation.
They say the color happiness in today's world is green.
So it's time for us to shine and make Our Black seen.
Written by Kemmiee Ken
Powerful beyond the simple imagination.
Others look on, their mouths open in fascination,
Cause my Black is beautiful, strong, courageous.
So beautiful is my Black that all the world springs from her seed.
In fact, if God ever married, she would be His queen.
The Europeans come and like what they'd seen.
Black beauty ruling over diamonds and things.
Even saw the people and the strength they possessed.
So much, they took us and yall know the rest.
But still inside, Black kings and queens reigned.
Forced to listen to ignorant things.
But if the lion is the king of the jungle,Why is my Black king wearing his mane?
Or just because I'm Black, I need to be tamed.
Stereotypically, yet hypocritically, society judges me so critically.
Saying, "He's only good if he's an athlete physically,
Cause his Black can never make it in the real world mentally."
But actually, the only challenge right here is inside of me.
So I pour out my heart and hope my Black hears my plea!!
Let's go show the people who ruled the world for centuries!!
Pharoahs, kings, and queens over everything.
My Black is beautiful, strong, courageous.
That's why my Black is president over the nation.
They say the color happiness in today's world is green.
So it's time for us to shine and make Our Black seen.
Written by Kemmiee Ken
Norwood's Beautiful People
If you have never been in the role of knocking on a neighbors door, too bad for you. Norwood has the nicest neighbors. Just riding by in your cars or walking your dog does not do you justice. You have to randomly knock on a day and introduce yourself. Norwood has some of the most beautiful people and neighbors. You will find they will invite you to have a seat on the porch, offer a cool drink of ice tea and just shoot the breeze for a while. The worst thing that can happen is you get to know one another.
This is what makes a community strong. Random acts of getting to know one another. Whether your mission is to get a petition signed or simply wanting to know who your neighbor is.... take a chance. Beautiful people come in all colors, shapes and sizes. You simply can't go wrong.
The beautiful people you meet will surprise you. It may even restore your faith in mankind. Times are hard and criminals prey on communities like Norwood. That is why I ask you to know your neighbors, know the children on your block. Watch out for their homes when you know they are gone. Norwood has some beautiful people are you one of them? Norwood News and Views think you are! God Bless you and God Bless America.
This is what makes a community strong. Random acts of getting to know one another. Whether your mission is to get a petition signed or simply wanting to know who your neighbor is.... take a chance. Beautiful people come in all colors, shapes and sizes. You simply can't go wrong.
The beautiful people you meet will surprise you. It may even restore your faith in mankind. Times are hard and criminals prey on communities like Norwood. That is why I ask you to know your neighbors, know the children on your block. Watch out for their homes when you know they are gone. Norwood has some beautiful people are you one of them? Norwood News and Views think you are! God Bless you and God Bless America.
Fuck the Norwood PD!
Fuck all the Norwood sorry ass Police,
I'm tired of your ass's coming after me!
From the day I moved into this racist, sorry, city,
your attitude toward my black ass has been real shitty!
Over and over you have put me in jail
Each time I got out on a O.R bail.
Let me count the ways I have been your target
young, black, out spoken..... I'm more than you bargain.
You put me in jail for domestic violence,
against my own son who remained real silent?
Why in the hell would you put a son against his mother?
You punk ass bitches thought my son was a sucker.
You did this twice and the trick didn't work,
My son is a king.... that couldn't be broke.
I have never been tazed..... just one pulled on me,
The cope was waiting to see if I would flee,
I got the blood of Rosa Parks I ain't scared,"nigga please".
I admit my personal file from my job I did removed myself,
Norwood Police Department blew it up like a million dollar theft.
Then the bastards had the nerves to arrest me on COPS.
The producers of the show, said is this all you got?
You go to her home, knock in the door,
and treat this mother like a two dollar whore?
We are not airing this shit,
erase the tape feeling hood winked and tricked.
NPD the joke is on you, twenty years later you still being schooled.
I'm still living here, strong as ever,
looking good, feeling good, light as a feather.
It may not seem that I have love and respect,
but if the officer's is honest I give them all my best.
I've never resisted, hit or lied to any of them,
I just wish they would stop fucking with me on a whim.
I'm tired of your ass's coming after me!
From the day I moved into this racist, sorry, city,
your attitude toward my black ass has been real shitty!
Over and over you have put me in jail
Each time I got out on a O.R bail.
Let me count the ways I have been your target
young, black, out spoken..... I'm more than you bargain.
You put me in jail for domestic violence,
against my own son who remained real silent?
Why in the hell would you put a son against his mother?
You punk ass bitches thought my son was a sucker.
You did this twice and the trick didn't work,
My son is a king.... that couldn't be broke.
I have never been tazed..... just one pulled on me,
The cope was waiting to see if I would flee,
I got the blood of Rosa Parks I ain't scared,"nigga please".
I admit my personal file from my job I did removed myself,
Norwood Police Department blew it up like a million dollar theft.
Then the bastards had the nerves to arrest me on COPS.
The producers of the show, said is this all you got?
You go to her home, knock in the door,
and treat this mother like a two dollar whore?
We are not airing this shit,
erase the tape feeling hood winked and tricked.
NPD the joke is on you, twenty years later you still being schooled.
I'm still living here, strong as ever,
looking good, feeling good, light as a feather.
It may not seem that I have love and respect,
but if the officer's is honest I give them all my best.
I've never resisted, hit or lied to any of them,
I just wish they would stop fucking with me on a whim.
Monday, February 4, 2013
CPS Open Boarders=Option for Norwood Students
Cincinnati Public School(CPS) board voted 4-2 to open its schools to any students that live in Hamilton County. .
Open enrollment allows students who live in other districts to attend Cincinnati Public Schools without having to pay tuition ($6,632 a year for out-of-district students and $8,266 for out-of-state students.)The district also loses state dollars because of its closed-border system. When a student transfers to a different district, $5,700 in state funding follows him. This year 372 students – and $2 million in state funding – left CPS for districts with open enrollment policies.
This is a challenge for Norwood School District to step up its commitment to serve their students. We here at Norwood News and Views are excited about this option. If a parent feels as if Norwood Schools are not fulfilling the needs of their children they have the option of sending them to a CPS school. While Norwood City Schools are good they lack what minorities students need. It is just that simple. Minority students have certain needs and wants that Norwood Schools don't meet.
Students that are not satisfied with the cirriculum now have a option. Students that have been suspended or expelled have another avenue to get back into school. This is a win for everyone. Too many minority students are dropping out of high school for varies of reasons. One reason is schools in certain districts fail to acknowledge that minority students have different needs. Another reason is Norwood Schools do not deal with students that come from different backgrounds and different cultures. These students attitudes toward education is sometime different. Their experiences are different. Some students will only respond to teachers that look like them. That is a fact, and Norwood Schools do not care about this fact. Maybe when their enrollment decline and students start to take advantage of this option will Norwood Schools start doing the right thing. At $5,700 per student Norwood News and Views hope it will start a dialogue with our Superintendent leading the discussion.
Open enrollment allows students who live in other districts to attend Cincinnati Public Schools without having to pay tuition ($6,632 a year for out-of-district students and $8,266 for out-of-state students.)The district also loses state dollars because of its closed-border system. When a student transfers to a different district, $5,700 in state funding follows him. This year 372 students – and $2 million in state funding – left CPS for districts with open enrollment policies.
This is a challenge for Norwood School District to step up its commitment to serve their students. We here at Norwood News and Views are excited about this option. If a parent feels as if Norwood Schools are not fulfilling the needs of their children they have the option of sending them to a CPS school. While Norwood City Schools are good they lack what minorities students need. It is just that simple. Minority students have certain needs and wants that Norwood Schools don't meet.
Students that are not satisfied with the cirriculum now have a option. Students that have been suspended or expelled have another avenue to get back into school. This is a win for everyone. Too many minority students are dropping out of high school for varies of reasons. One reason is schools in certain districts fail to acknowledge that minority students have different needs. Another reason is Norwood Schools do not deal with students that come from different backgrounds and different cultures. These students attitudes toward education is sometime different. Their experiences are different. Some students will only respond to teachers that look like them. That is a fact, and Norwood Schools do not care about this fact. Maybe when their enrollment decline and students start to take advantage of this option will Norwood Schools start doing the right thing. At $5,700 per student Norwood News and Views hope it will start a dialogue with our Superintendent leading the discussion.
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Norwood City Council is Comical
The definition of the word comical is to be amused or funny. That is how I would describe the Norwood City Council Members. You have to laugh to keep from crying. The members simply do not take their job or constituents serious. If so why is the City of Norwood so damn dysfunctional? Why do we not have nice parks? Why do our infrastructure look like it does? Why is our crime rate going up and up? Why do you never see your ward member? Do you even know who he or she is? Why is cut backs always on the things that make the quality of life better? Why do your council member never talk about lawsuits that cost your tax dollars in payouts? Why is your council member only out and about at election time.
Norwood News and Views try to remain neutral on issues but sometimes I can't help myself. I have to ask where is City Council Members? I will not point anyone out but it is time for them to get off council and let someone else have a seat. Council members get elected over and over again and yet they do absolutely nothing to bring fresh, new, bold ideas to the City of Norwood. These certain council members sit and do things like they have always been done. Their purpose for being on Council is to rubber stamp whatever the Mayor says. They never step out on bold ideas. They never offer fresh, meaningful ideas. I have more respect for a Council Member that brings something to the table than a member that only take a seat at the table. The members never get frustrated and say enough! When was the last time you seen a Norwood Council Member say I'm voting against a issue and was the only no vote? Folks, your council members are comical. We laugh and smile when we see them and then we open our water bill and cry. We love the summer parade and we curse the break-ins at our homes. We love the close shopping stores yet we tear our cars up on the pot holes. We love our police officers and cringe when we know the misconduct they do. African Americans are moving in and white folks are moving out,yet will never hear your council members talk about that concern. Yes, our Norwood City Council Members are comical.
Except the joke is on the citizens, homeowners and taxpayers of Norwood, Ohio.
Norwood News and Views try to remain neutral on issues but sometimes I can't help myself. I have to ask where is City Council Members? I will not point anyone out but it is time for them to get off council and let someone else have a seat. Council members get elected over and over again and yet they do absolutely nothing to bring fresh, new, bold ideas to the City of Norwood. These certain council members sit and do things like they have always been done. Their purpose for being on Council is to rubber stamp whatever the Mayor says. They never step out on bold ideas. They never offer fresh, meaningful ideas. I have more respect for a Council Member that brings something to the table than a member that only take a seat at the table. The members never get frustrated and say enough! When was the last time you seen a Norwood Council Member say I'm voting against a issue and was the only no vote? Folks, your council members are comical. We laugh and smile when we see them and then we open our water bill and cry. We love the summer parade and we curse the break-ins at our homes. We love the close shopping stores yet we tear our cars up on the pot holes. We love our police officers and cringe when we know the misconduct they do. African Americans are moving in and white folks are moving out,yet will never hear your council members talk about that concern. Yes, our Norwood City Council Members are comical.
Except the joke is on the citizens, homeowners and taxpayers of Norwood, Ohio.
Fired up and Ready to Fight Back?
In the City of Norwood we have a general fund. For 2012 the police and fire department received 70% of the money in that fund. Let me say it again. The police and fire department got 70% of the money. To be exact the fire department received $6,654,721 dollars. Their percentage of the budget was 34.71%. The police department received $6,371,376 dollars. Their percentage of the budget was 33.23%.
At Norwood News and Views we ask the question is that acceptable to the taxpayers? Is that fair to the other departments? Is it fair to the public workers who has not received a pay increase in four years? Is that fair to the recreation department when year after year their budget gets cut and the police and fire department gets increased? Is that fair to the Parks department? The Norwood Community Center does not get 1% of the budget at a time when we need them the most.
Are you fired up and ready to fight back? Then start with your city council members. Year after year this type of budget get passed. The council members see the numbers and vote on this matter. What is your ward member telling you? What are their reasons? Are they not asking questions? Are they afraid to fight back with some fire in their belly? It is time to hold the council members responsible for the city expenditures. It is simply time. Our council members have had it too easy. Not a single member on City Council ask tough questions. Not a single one. The residents have made it to easy and smug for the Council Members. It's time to demand accountability to the citizens, homeowners, and taxpayers of Norwood, Ohio. It is time for those on council to pound the table and say we have other departments in this city that need attention! We have shut down pools. Our infrastructure is falling down. Our streets are beyond patching. Our park equipment is old and dangerous. Our community center is all but closed. Our crime rate is going up. Our businesses are being robbed. Our health department is underfunded. Our crossing guards are all gone. Our city hall needs a serious make-over. Our water rate is forever increasing. Yet, the departments that is getting the money is costing us money. The lawsuits for police misconduct is costing you the taxpayers. When will you get fired up and ready to fight back? When?
Norwood News and Views will be here when you are ready to get fired up and ready to fight back. Let's start to hold our Council Members responsible for the money. We love our fire and police departments. Yet, it simply is not fair to over fund their department and under fund other departments. Do you agree with Norwood News and Views? Let us know.
At Norwood News and Views we ask the question is that acceptable to the taxpayers? Is that fair to the other departments? Is it fair to the public workers who has not received a pay increase in four years? Is that fair to the recreation department when year after year their budget gets cut and the police and fire department gets increased? Is that fair to the Parks department? The Norwood Community Center does not get 1% of the budget at a time when we need them the most.
Are you fired up and ready to fight back? Then start with your city council members. Year after year this type of budget get passed. The council members see the numbers and vote on this matter. What is your ward member telling you? What are their reasons? Are they not asking questions? Are they afraid to fight back with some fire in their belly? It is time to hold the council members responsible for the city expenditures. It is simply time. Our council members have had it too easy. Not a single member on City Council ask tough questions. Not a single one. The residents have made it to easy and smug for the Council Members. It's time to demand accountability to the citizens, homeowners, and taxpayers of Norwood, Ohio. It is time for those on council to pound the table and say we have other departments in this city that need attention! We have shut down pools. Our infrastructure is falling down. Our streets are beyond patching. Our park equipment is old and dangerous. Our community center is all but closed. Our crime rate is going up. Our businesses are being robbed. Our health department is underfunded. Our crossing guards are all gone. Our city hall needs a serious make-over. Our water rate is forever increasing. Yet, the departments that is getting the money is costing us money. The lawsuits for police misconduct is costing you the taxpayers. When will you get fired up and ready to fight back? When?
Norwood News and Views will be here when you are ready to get fired up and ready to fight back. Let's start to hold our Council Members responsible for the money. We love our fire and police departments. Yet, it simply is not fair to over fund their department and under fund other departments. Do you agree with Norwood News and Views? Let us know.
Friday, February 1, 2013
Are You Digging the New Developments?
Norwood has several development projects up and going. Tell Norwood News and Views what you think. Here are just a sample of developments coming to a corner or street near you.
Mercy Health has a new 20 million dollar medical office building located at Edwards Road and Williams Avenue near Rookwood Pavilion. This new development is expected to bring 40 jobs into the city of Norwood. This medical building will have a free standing ER facility, primary care and cardiology services.
Rookwood Exchange is a new development that is slated to open this spring(2013). It will have a Courtyard by Marriott Hotel, 15,000 square feet of foot retail, entertainment, and office buildings. Two 9,000 square feet restaurants as well as a parking garage to accommodate 750 cars.
The Urology Group is a 55,000 square foot facility off Montgomery Road at the Norwood Lateral. It opened in August of 2012.
Messer Construction/Ackerman Group say they need federal approval for up to 40 million in new market tax credits to complete the financing for the first phase of new development at the corner of Dana and Montgomery Road. The company hopes to have on this site a XU Book Store, 400 student apartment complex, health center, and a potential hotel.
Paycor Pointe(temporary name) new Corporate Headquarters will be located at Linden Pointe. It is slated to open in the spring of 2014. This company is single resource for employee data.
Do you know of any more new development coming to Norwood? Do you like what you are seeing? Is there any development you disagree with? If you could develop any project what would it be to help improve Norwood? Let Norwood News and View hear your opinions. I know what I would like to see but I'll wait to hear what you got.
Mercy Health has a new 20 million dollar medical office building located at Edwards Road and Williams Avenue near Rookwood Pavilion. This new development is expected to bring 40 jobs into the city of Norwood. This medical building will have a free standing ER facility, primary care and cardiology services.
Rookwood Exchange is a new development that is slated to open this spring(2013). It will have a Courtyard by Marriott Hotel, 15,000 square feet of foot retail, entertainment, and office buildings. Two 9,000 square feet restaurants as well as a parking garage to accommodate 750 cars.
The Urology Group is a 55,000 square foot facility off Montgomery Road at the Norwood Lateral. It opened in August of 2012.
Messer Construction/Ackerman Group say they need federal approval for up to 40 million in new market tax credits to complete the financing for the first phase of new development at the corner of Dana and Montgomery Road. The company hopes to have on this site a XU Book Store, 400 student apartment complex, health center, and a potential hotel.
Paycor Pointe(temporary name) new Corporate Headquarters will be located at Linden Pointe. It is slated to open in the spring of 2014. This company is single resource for employee data.
Do you know of any more new development coming to Norwood? Do you like what you are seeing? Is there any development you disagree with? If you could develop any project what would it be to help improve Norwood? Let Norwood News and View hear your opinions. I know what I would like to see but I'll wait to hear what you got.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)