We Need Snow Buddies Volunteers!
RecAssist Offers Discounts on Eligible Recreation Programs
The City of Cedar Rapids needs volunteers for the Snow Buddies snow removal program, which pairs residents in need of assistance with “Snow Heroes” volunteers who help clear public sidewalks of snow and ice accumulations. While the sign-up for those needing assistance is closed, we still need Snow Heroes, especially for the Taylor and Cleveland Park neighborhoods, as well as the northwest quadrant.
The Parks and Recreation Department has updated the low-income assistance program, offering discounts to individuals and families with financial need. The program is called RecAssist.
The Snow Buddies program benefits residents who are not physically able to remove snow from public sidewalks and do not have other resources to do so. Snow Heroes must be at least 18 years old and provide their own snow-removal equipment — though loaner snow blowers and shovels are available from the Matthew 25 Tool Library, located at 201 3rd Avenue SW, at no cost for Snow Buddies program volunteers. Snow Heroes will be paired with residents based on factors such as location and availability. They are only asked to clear public sidewalks after a snowfall of two inches or more, and they will not be allowed to solicit or accept money, tips, or gifts for their volunteer activities. Our City’s vision includes ensuring we all have access to basic needs, asking our residents to come together to help one another, and helping our residents get connected to community resources. Removing snow and ice keeps our community safe and accessible. Municipal Code Chapter 9.11 — Clearing Snow & Ice from Sidewalks — requires property owners and residents to clear snow and ice from public sidewalks within 24 hours after a snow event. It is important to the City to provide a safe, walkable community for all residents, regardless of age and ability. Snow Buddies is a great way to help others and to keep our sidewalks clear in the winter months.
ReAssist provides qualifying families and individuals, living in Cedar Rapids, with a 50 percent reduction on swim passes and up to eight eligible recreation programs per year. Non-eligible programs include pavilion or facility rentals, daily admission to the pools, team entry fees, garden plots, trips, and punch passes. Applications must be completed each calendar year with participation ending December 31.
Find eligibility requirements and application information at CityofCR.com/RecAssist.
Reminder: Yard Sign Regulations Election season is over, yard sales are (mostly) done and the leaves are getting sent to the curb. It’s time to pick up yard signs, too. You’re encouraged to remove signs when they’re no longer relevant. If you’ve ever wondered, the basic rules for yard signs are quite simple: • Signs must be on the property owner’s side of the sidewalk and not impede normal foot traffic. • Signs should be placed a minimum of 10-12 feet from the road when no sidewalk is present. Improperly placed signs can be reported using the My CR reporting tool online or through the Mobile CR application on your smart phone.
Find out more and sign up at CityofCR.com/SnowBuddies.
Report a sign concern at CityofCR.com/MyCR.
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