MM2012_OctNov.pdf

Mason Matters October / November 2012

Inside This Issue: 2 3 4 5 5 7 7

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Charter Amendments On November Ballot

oters in Mason will be asked to consider two changes to the city’s charter this November 6.

One amendment, if approved, will help military and other voters by altering d teoverseas : rafiling ofor i h the deadline candidate petitions.

O , son Maother The amendment will provide funding h 24temergency for the city’s LACE services.

P BEST IVE e 201Amendment 1 O Overseas T LaVoter gazin

At the recommendation of the Veterans ney m

by Mo of Council, Council voted to place Committee this amendment on the ballot on November 6.

If voters approve it, the deadline to file candidate petitions will change from 75 days before an election to 90 days before an election.

With the change, the city’s deadline will correspond with the State of Ohio deadline.

Election law changes in Ohio in 2010 directed Ohio Election Boards to have ballots prepared 45 days prior to an election to accommodate citizens living overseas, including those in the military.

The earlier deadline allows time for ballots to be prepared, sent to distant military and overseas voters, and be returned to the elections board by the voting deadline.

Safety Services Amendment

Mason Matters

If voters approve this amendment, it will create ongoing funding for safety, fire, and EMS services in Mason.

Council members and staff have been keeping a close watch on the city’s Fire Fund for years. In 2008, a 5-year renewal of the 2003 fire levy was approved by voters. The renewal included no adjustment for inflation, a reduction of $1 million a year in anticipated funds. It was understood when it was placed on the ballot that, by itself, it would not sustain operating expenses through 2013 when the levy expires.

In 2011, Mason City Council resolved to avoid placing a fire levy on

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FAQs About the Proposed Charter Amendments Proposed November Ballot Recycling Tax Payments Fire Department Open House Around Mason Annual Leaf Pickup

October / November 2012

the ballot. Council felt that since the Fire Fund balance was sufficient to last a little longer, it was not the time to ask residents for additional funding. The delay also allowed time to look at alternative methods of funding and determine the best long-term solution. Council has met numerous times in committee and work sessions to discuss the issue.

The urgency of the situation was stepped up in 2011 when the state announced that due to economic conditions, promised reimbursements to offset the termination of tangible personal property taxes on businesses would end much sooner than expected.

The termination of this tax meant that over $700,000 a year would not be received in the future. Additionally, because the levy has not been adjusted for inflation for nine years, $1 million less in revenue is collected. Together with $300,000 in lower interest earnings due to declining reserves and low interest rates, the Fire Fund is short $2 million each year in revenues.

Council members have continually expressed their desire to provide for the safety of the Mason community, including maintaining staffing levels in compliance with the National Fire Protection Association’s standards. Minimum recommended staffing levels are in place both to ensure an adequate level of response as well as to ensure the safety of the personnel. To date, careful budgeting, partnerships such as the Northeast Fire Collaborative that facilitate bulk purchasing discounts and joint training, cost-containment efforts, postponing major purchases, cooperation with Deerfield Township in sharing services, and other measures taken by the Fire Department over the years have helped delay the need for an additional fire levy. Coupled with dipping into the Fire Fund balance, the city has been able to maintain effective service levels.

The proposed amendment to the city’s charter, if approved, will pay for safety, fire, and EMS services through two revenue sources. A continuous real estate tax levy of

Fire & EMS Services Who Benefits?

37% 40%

17% 6% EMS for Residents - 37% Fire Protection for Residents - 17% EMS for Business Employees - 40% Fire Protection for Businesses - 6% Fire and EMS benefits are almost evenly split between residents and businesses. up to 5 mills would be paired with a slight income tax change.

The real estate tax levy that would begin when the current 5-mill levy expires is initially set at 5 mills. Council can adjust this rate annually, as long as it does not exceed 5 mills.

Five mills has been the rate since 1998.

The income tax change is to include a tax that cannot exceed 15 hundredths of one percent (a multiplier of .0015). Property owners who own and live in homes in Mason, as well as their dependents, can receive a refund of this tax when they file their income tax return each year. Initially, the new rate for safety services will be .0012 beginning with calendar year 2013. Council can adjust this rate as economic conditions merit, as long as it does not exceed .0015. The tax would be in

addition to the one percent already in effect.

Residents who work in another jurisdiction that has an income tax may already receive a full credit of the one percent.

Council chose two revenue sources as a way to maintain the same level of safety, fire, and EMS services now provided without increasing property tax rates. The proposed charter amendment does not increase tax rates for Mason homeowners and their dependents. It also allows Council to lower tax rates as economic conditions improve.

Current Fire & EMS Funding Sources 0%

10%

14% 22%

21%

November 3

The city’s charter was approved by voters in 1969 and requires that changes to its provisions be approved by voters before they can be enacted. Because the charter includes, among other items, when candidate petitions must be filed with the Board of Elections and limitations on income taxes, voters will decide these two changes on November 6.

Please carefully consider these two issues before you go to the polls to vote on November 6. If you have any questions about the two charter amendments, please call the city offices at 513.229.8500 or look for additional information at www.imaginemason.org.

Proposed Fire & EMS Funding Sources

52% 65% 16%

Resident Property Tax - 65%

Resident Property Tax - 52%

Business Property Tax - 21%

Business Property Tax - 16%

Business Employees - 0%

Business Employees - 22%

EMS Reimbursment - 14%

EMS Reimbursment - 10%

Residents currently provide about two thirds of the funding for fire and EMS services.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Ballot Issues Q: Fire department funding has always been through a property tax. Why should we add an income tax component?

A: Presently, non-resident employees of businesses in the city do not contribute to the fire fund because they don’t pay property taxes. Sharing the funding with all individuals who have emergency services available to them will help maintain the long-term financing for these critical life and property safety services.

Q: Why does the fire department need more money?

A: The fire department lost $700,000 of local tax revenue when the state changed taxing laws several years ago. In addition, the current levy has not been adjusted for inflation since 2003, causing $1 million less to be collected each year. Costs, however, have continued to rise with inflation. Further, the city has lost $300,000 in interest due to declining reserves and lower interest rates.

Totaled, the city is receiving $2 million less in revenues each year.

The department has done several things over the years to reduce expenditures (see cover story.) Even so, the cost of providing services and the loss of revenue has caused a funding shortfall.

Q: Will the safety services amendment increase my taxes?

Q: Would working more closely with Deerfield Township solve funding problems?

A: Mason and Deerfield Township Fire Departments already work cooperatively on a daily basis through mutual aid response, training, and sharing of resources. The city’s newest fire station

was built to co-locate resources from both Mason and Deerfield Township to better serve the northern area at the lowest cost for both entities. Working with the township is important to current operations and will continue to be important in the future for saving costs.

Q: How would the new income tax be collected?

A: Employees working in the City of Mason and residents who work outside the city who have their employers withhold their city tax will continue to have their taxes deducted from their pay, but at the new rate. Mason residents who work are required to file an income tax return each year. On that return, residents who own their homes and pay property taxes may request a refund for the tax collected above 1%. Their dependents are also eligible for a refund on the amount above 1%.

Q: What would the income tax rate be?

A: The proposed amendment defines an initial income tax rate of .0012. (Multiply income times .0012 to determine the amount to be collected.) Council can adjust this rate each year for the following year depending on need, as long as it does not exceed .0015.

Q: Will my property tax rate change?

A: The current property tax rate is 5 mills as originally approved by voters in 1998 and renewed in 2003 and 2008. Just like for the income tax, the proposed amendment will allow Council to adjust the property tax rate each year depending on the need for funding, as long as it does not exceed 5 mills.

Q: When would the income tax change go into effect?

A: If voters approve the safety services amendment, employees will see the rate change in their paychecks beginning in January 2013. Residents who pay property taxes, and their dependents, will be able to apply for a refund with their 2013 tax return, filed in 2014. The amendment defines an initial tax rate of .0012, less than the stated maximum of .0015.

Mason Matters

A: Most Mason citizens will not see an increase. Individual situations vary and must be evaluated separately. Your combined tax bill is a factor of the tax rates, your income and where it was earned, your property valuation and reappraisals, and the local property market.

If the proposed charter amendment passes, residents’ share of the funding will be about the same as the percentage of benefits for residents.

—see AMENDMENTS on pg. 3 www.imaginemason.org

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Your Proposed November 6 Ballot

Amendments from pg. 2 Q: When would the property tax change go into effect?

A: The property tax provision of the charter amendment would take effect in tax year 2013, collected in 2014. Though the amendment defines a maximum rate of 5 mills, the actual rate will be determined

by City Council in mid-2013 and may be set lower.

Q: What will happen to safety services if the safety services amendment fails?

A: For some time, funding for the current service levels of fire and EMS has fallen short of expenses. The city’s effort to contain expenses helped delay the need go to voters for additional revenue.

Fire Department reserves are being depleted and may sustain operations for only a short time. Without action in 2014, there will be no revenues for fire and EMS services. Difficult choices will need to be made about service and safety levels for fire, EMS, and the city; how those choices will affect services provided by other departments; and how or when to return to voters for funding approval.

Q: Are Mason fire and EMS expenses in line with other jurisdictions?

A: The chart below shows information for Mason and some of our neighbors. Differences in the number of square miles to cover, number of stations, number of full-time vs. part-time personnel, population (both during the day while businesses are full and nighttime), number of calls, and other factors make it difficult to make exact comparisons.

Mason’s efforts to budget carefully, contain expenses, and take advantage of partnership opportunities place the city in the lower categories in terms of expenditures per call.

2010

Funding Source

Voted Rate†

Expenditure per Call

Number of Employees (FTE/FT)*

Square Miles/ Number of Stations

Lebanon

property tax

5.5 mills

$704

not provided/8

13/2

Mason

property tax

5 mills

$1,312

46/33

19/2

Monroe

property tax and General Fund

4.5 mills, 1.5% income tax

$1,404

33/33

16/2

Deerfield Township

property tax

6.8 mills

$1,484

67/29

19/3

West Chester Township

property tax

6 mills

$1,712

99/66

36/5

Blue Ash

General Fund

1.25% income $1,733 tax

39/29

8/2

Sharonville

General Fund

1.5% income tax

54/38

11/3

$1,763

Mason Matters

† Some jurisdictions support Fire and EMS through the General Fund, which is largely made up of income taxes. Income tax rate shown is the total tax rate for all GF services. *Full-time equivalent (FTE) includes full-time employees.

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Q: How will the overseas voter amendment affect my right to vote?

A: If you are voting at your home polling location, it will have no effect at all. If you are living overseas for military service, a temporary job assignment, or another reason, the change will allow more time for the Warren County Board of Elections to prepare your ballot, send it to you, and receive it via return mail. Overseas mail can sometimes take a long time, particularly for military personnel. This provision will help ensure that overseas voters’ ballots are received before the deadline.

October / November 2012

Issue: Overseas Voter Amendment

A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.

Shall section 8.01 of the Charter of the City of Mason be amended to read as follows: 8.01 NOMINATIONS Nominations for members of Council shall be made only by petition signed by qualified electors of the Municipality not less in number than twentyfive. Such petitions shall be accompanied by a declaration of candidacy and shall be filed with the election authorities no later than 4:00 p.m. of the seventy-fifth ninetieth (90th) day before the date of the regular Municipal election.

If the nominating petition or declaration of candidacy is found by the election authorities to contain any defect that would prevent the candidate’s name from being placed on the ballot, the election authorities shall immediately notify the candidate who shall then have ten days to correct any such defect.

No primary election shall be held for Council candidates.

YES NO

Issue: Safety Services Amendment

PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT CITY OF MASON

The proposed Charter amendment funds the City’s Fire, EMS and Safety Services and replaces the City’s current real estate tax levy for Fire and EMS Services: • The proposed Charter amendment does not increase tax rates for Mason homeowners or their dependents; and • The State of Ohio has stopped giving Mason $700,000 of Fire and EMS funding per year.

• M ason wants to maintain the same level of Fire and EMS Services it now has.

• Mason has not increased its Fire and EMS Levy rate since 1998.

• Mason does not want to increase, but to retain the same real estate tax rate as exists now for its residents.

• Th e proposed Charter amendment restricts Council from raising tax rates.

• The proposed Charter amendment allows Council to lower tax rates.

Section 10.05 FUNDING OF SAFETY, FIRE AND EMS SERVICES Mason shall raise funds to pay for safety, fire and EMS services through two revenue sources. First, a continuing real estate tax levy not to exceed 5.0 mills may be imposed on Mason real estate commencing in tax year 2013 for collection beginning in 2014. This levy shall continue until changed by the electors of Mason through an amendment to this charter provision.

Second, a not to exceed .0015 tax on income shall be collected by Mason in the same manner as the income tax set forth in section 10.04 of the Charter, with the exception that those who own and live in homes in Mason, and who therefore pay the real estate tax set forth above, shall be exempted from the not to exceed .0015 income tax along with their dependents.

This income tax shall be imposed starting on January 1, 2013 and shall be at a rate of .0012 during calendar year 2013, and cannot be changed except by legislative action receiving an affirmative vote of at least five council members, and can only take effect on January 1 of the calendar year following legislative action, provided that such legislative action takes place at least six months prior to the effective date and shall not exceed .0015.

If any portion of this section is deemed to be unenforceable, only the unenforceable portions of this section shall be deleted and the remainder shall remain in force.

Shall the proposed amendment of section 10.05 of the Charter for the City of Mason be Adopted?

YES NO

From the City Manager

Eric Hansen, City Manager We appreciate your calls, visits and e-mails to the Mason Municipal Center to discuss what is going on in the city. I encourage you to call 513.229.8500 or stop in any time during business hours if you need information or assistance.

Dear Mason Resident, The city’s strategy of business growth and retention has been highlighted by several recent successes that bring benefits to the businesses, the city, and residents.

In late summer, business growth led to the relocation of several companies in Mason. One story begins about a year ago, when eMerge, a bio health company specializing in gastroenterology (GI) solutions, leased space in the Municipal Center Business Suite. The arrangement was part of a Mason-CincyTech partnership initiative that focuses on attracting innovative startup companies to Mason. In August, eMerge became the first growth company to move out of the Municipal Center Business Suite to a different, larger, location in Mason. To accommodate its growing staff, the company moved to Columbia Commons on Columbia Drive in Mason.

The Columbia Commons space had been occupied by AssureRx before it moved to larger corporate headquarters in the tenant space at Mason Community Center. AssureRx is continuing to expand and has leased additional space on the Community Campus as the company’s business growth exceeds expectations.

Also in August, Rhinestahl celebrated the completion of its second Mason location on Western Row Road, just a few miles from their headquarters on Innovation Way. The new location brings about 85 employees with a payroll of $8.5 million to Mason. The company expects employment to grow over the next three years to a staff of 155 employees.

Mason’s quality of life has been a key factor in helping these companies retain their operations in Mason and expand their workforce. The city’s ability to create innovative recruitment packages that include membership incentives at Mason Community Center and/or the Golf Center at Kings Island benefits the companies’ existing workforces, the ability of the companies to recruit additional talented workers, and the overall health of the Community Center and Golf Center.

Ultimately, the residents are the ones who reap the rewards. Increased memberships and program participation at the community and golf centers through employee participation has a positive impact on the financial standings of these city amenities. In addition, the earnings taxes paid by the employees of these companies support other city services that contribute to quality of life, such as city parks, brush collection, leaf pickup, police services, road maintenance, and more.

Council’s Economic Development Committee continues to work with the other members of Council, city staff, Mason Port Authority, CincyTech, and businesses to strengthen the business portfolio in Mason. We are fortunate that our business recruitment and retention efforts continue to generate high levels of interest in business investment in Mason, both in new construction and absorption of existing space. In the end, it is the residents who benefit.

Mason Matters

Recycle! Rumpke Recycling carts were delivered to Mason residents beginning in late August. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about your new cart.

Q: Will I be charged a fee for using the new recycling cart?

A: No. There is no additional charge for the use of your recently delivered Rumpke recycling cart or for weekly recycling collection.

Q: Can I get more than one cart?

A: Yes. Additional recycling carts can be leased for $2.50 per month, billed quarterly. To order, please call Rumpke.

Q: What should I do with my old red bin?

A: Please use it for an indoor recycling station or for storage. Rumpke will not be collecting old bins. If it is broken, please place it in your new recycling cart so that it may be collected and recycled.

Q: What if my new recycling cart breaks?

A: The carts are under warranty. If your cart needs repairs or replacement, please call Mason Utility Customer Service. Rumpke will exchange your cart on your normal collection day in 2 to 3 weeks, at no charge to you. Once you have called for a replacement, please leave your damaged recycling cart at the curb on your normal collection day after it is emptied so a Rumpke driver can exchange it. A new cart will not be delivered unless the old cart can be retrieved from the curb.

Q: If I need a recycling cart, can I pick one up at Mason Municipal Center?

A: The city does not keep a supply of the recycling carts; however, we can assist in ordering you a new cart through Rumpke. Please note that there is an additional monthly charge for the use of multiple recycling carts.

Q: If I move, can I take the recycling cart to my new address?

A: No. The recycling cart should stay at the address where it was delivered.

If you move to a new location within Mason and it doesn’t have a recycling

cart, please contact Mason Utility Customer Service to Mason Utility have a new one delivered.

Customer Service Q: I just moved into Mason and there is no recycling 513.229.8533 cart at my address. What should I do?

A: Please call Mason Utility Customer Service to order Rumpke a new cart. Rumpke will deliver the cart in 2 to 3 weeks.

513.792.2900 There is no charge for the use of the cart.

Q: If my cart is lost, stolen or damaged, what should I do?

A: To report a lost or stolen recycling cart, please complete a police report and provide the report to Rumpke. Rumpke will issue a new cart to your residence in 2 to 3 weeks at no additional cost.

Q: I chose not to upgrade to the recycling cart, but I would like one after all. Can I still get one?

A: Yes. To order a recycling cart for your residence, please contact Mason Utility Customer Service. There is no additional cost.

Q: Do I need to separate recycled paper from cans and bottles?

A: No separation is needed. Everything can be placed loose in the same container. Rumpke uses single stream technology at its plant to separate materials collected at the curb. To learn more about the recycling process, please visit RumpkeCleanAndGreen.com.

Q: I live in an apartment or condominium complex. What should I do with my recyclables?

A: The manner of recycling for your apartment or condominium complex depends on the waste contract your property manager has in place. Please check with your property manager for information.

Q: I don’t recycle but a recycling cart was delivered to me. What should I do?

A: The City of Mason’s contract with Rumpke includes curbside recycling for all residents. We encourage you to start recycling by trying the cart for 90 days. If you still do not wish to recycle after November 1, 2012, please call Mason Utility Customer Service to request that the cart be picked up

by Rumpke.

www.imaginemason.org

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Mason Firefighters Say: Have Two Ways Out!

I

f you woke up to a fire in your home, how much time do you think you would have to get to safety? According to the nonprofit National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), one-third of American households estimate they thought they would have at least six minutes before a fire in their home would become life threatening. Unfortunately, the time available is often far less.

That’s why the City of Mason Fire Department is teaming up with NFPA during Fire Prevention Week, October 7-13, 2012, to urge residents to “Have Two Ways Out!” This year’s theme focuses on the importance of fire escape planning and practice.

In 2010, U.S. fire departments responded to 369,500 home structure fires. These fires caused 13,350 injuries, 2,640 deaths, and $6.9 billion in direct damage.

“One home structure fire was reported every 85 seconds in 2010,” says Mason’s Fire Chief John Moore. “Fire is unpredictable and moves faster than most people realize. Having a tried and true escape plan with two ways out is essential to ensuring your family’s safety should fire break out in your home.”

City of Mason firefighters offer the following tips for planning your family’s escape: • Make a map of your home. Mark a door and a window that can be used to get out of every room.

• Choose a meeting place outside in front of your home. This is where everyone can meet once they’ve escaped.

• Periodically sound the smoke alarm and practice your escape plan with everyone living in your home.

• Keep your escape plan on the refrigerator and schedule times when your family is together to practice the plan, such as a

You’re invited!

Mason Fire Department Open House and Fire Prevention Week October 7 - 13, 2012 Station 51 – 4420 Mason-Montgomery Road Station 52 – 5500 Cedar Village Drive Sunday: noon - 6:00 p.m.

Station tours, fire safety smoke house (Station 51) Monday - Friday: 4 - 8 p.m. station tours, safety literature Saturday: noon - 6 p.m.

Station tours, fire safety smoke house (Station 52)

I

Expect To Owe 2012 Taxes?

f you expect to owe Mason city income taxes for 2012 and city taxes are not deducted from your paycheck, the Tax Office would like to remind you that it’s time to make a quarterly payment.

Please remember that ninety per cent of your 2012 tax liability is due by January 31, 2013. Please make your quarterly payment by October 31.

To assist you in making your payment, quarterly estimated payment vouchers are available online. You may also choose to pay your quarterly estimate via the online tax tool. Please visit www.imaginemason.org/ residents/tax-information to find these forms and tools.

If you need assistance in determining whether you need to make estimated payments or if you need to adjust your declaration, the Tax Office is glad to help.

Please call 513.229.8535 for assistance.

Also, if you filed an extension with the tax office for your 2011 City of Mason Income Tax Return, please remember to file by October 31, 2012.

birthday celebration or another type of family event.

• Learn more about “Have Two Ways Out!” by visiting one of the Mason fire stations during Fire Prevention Week (see inset.)

If you would like to have a firefighter visit your classroom or organization to talk about “Have Two Ways Out!” or other safety topics, please contact Mason Fire Administration at 513.229.8540.

Plaque Dedicated to Mason Volunteer Fire Company

Mason Matters

A

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Mayor Nichols (back row, right) and Mason Fire Chief John Moore (middle row, right) join past volunteer and current firefighters at the dedication of a plaque honoring the Mason Volunteer Fire Company.

October / November 2012

plaque to honor the members of the Mason Volunteer Fire Company was dedicated during the Heritage Festival on August 18.

Past members of the volunteer fire company joined Mayor David F. Nichols and city officials, current firefighter/ paramedics, and residents for the dedication.

From October 1948 to April 1995, the Mason Volunteer Fire Company provided emergency fire services to Mason, Deerfield Township, and the surrounding area. In 1953, the company purchased its first ambulance and added life squad services to their activities. In 1964, the company moved out of the old municipal building at 202 West Main Street to new, larger quarters at the corner of Church Street and MasonMontgomery Road. The building, Station 51, served the city until 2010, when it was replaced by a new station at 4420 Mason-Montgomery Road.

Stop by the new plaque at the site of the former Station 51 at Church Street and Mason-Montgomery Road. You’ll be treated to a brief history of the Mason Volunteer Fire Company.

H

Pre-Fire Planning Creates a Safer Community

ave you seen firefighters from the City of Mason Fire Department walking in and around a business when there doesn’t seem to be an emergency?

If you answered “yes,” then you have seen the department’s Pre-Fire Planning Program in action! Pre-fire planning allows firefighters to gather and record information about a business and its building that would be useful in responding to fires or other emergencies.

This information includes: • How the building was constructed and what types of materials were used • W hether the building is protected by sprinklers or other fire extinguishing systems • W hether the building has a fire alarm system and other firefighting systems

Y

• Th e number of people who might be in the building • Locations of utility shut-offs and fire system connections • Pictures of the building floor plans • Pictures giving a 360-degree view of the building’s exterior • The location of dangerous chemicals, if any • Special circumstances that could affect how firefighters respond to an emergency • Names and numbers of the business personnel to contact in the event of an emergency Firefighters contact the business owners to schedule a meeting to tour the facility. This tour provides the firefighters with a first-hand look at the building without smoke or fire,

with the lights on, and in good weather— conditions they would likely not have when responding to an emergency.

Everything learned in the meeting and on the tour is recorded into tables, onto building plans, and pictures. This information is then entered into a computer at the fire station and can be accessed on the Mobile Data Computers in the fire department vehicles as they respond to an emergency. Crews arriving on the scene then have a better understanding of how to address the emergency and keep the public safer.

Pre-fire planning is an important component of the Mason Fire Department’s efforts to create a safer community. If your business has not had a pre-fire plan assessment and you would like one, please call Mason Fire Administration at 513.229.8540.

Cured-in-Place Pipe Reduces Costs and Disruptions

The CIPP process results in significant savings. When compared to a conventional open-cut pipe replacement, a cured-in-placepipe repair can be done in much less time as well. A conventional open-cut sewer line replacement takes more than two weeks per block, with significant disruption to traffic and service. A CIPP project can take only two days and be completed with little or no excavation. Because of the reduced impact from the construction process, costs can be as much as 50% lower in comparison to open cut replacement.

This is the first project of this type to be completed in the city and several other areas have been targeted in the future for completion. CIPP doesn’t work in every situation. When pipes are damaged beyond repair or need to be increased in size, CIPP is not an option. This fall and if conditions

merit, additional sections in the Olympia Fields, Mason Meadows, and Mason Heights subdivisions will be repaired using the same process. Others may follow in 2013.

The work is part of a multi-year project to repair or replace aging sewer lines in the city. Since the work began in 1998, the amount of rain and ground water that infiltrates the sewer system, particularly during heavy rainfall, has decreased by 28 per cent. This reduction helps lower the peak processing capacity at the Water Reclamation Plant. This, in turn, reduces operating costs and postpones the need to build more capacity at the plant and in the collection system, which helps keep increases in your utility rates at a minimum.

Mason Matters

ou have probably been inconvenienced at some time or other by a sanitary sewer construction project. Backhoes, trenchers, open trenches, detours, road closures, and disturbed landscaping are typical of traditional “dig and replace” repair projects.

In 2012, the City of Mason Public Utilities Department did away with these inconveniences by completing its first ever CIPP slip-lining project. Homeowners and visitors to the Manhasset Village and Olympia Fields subdivisions of Mason may have been unaware that this trenchless technology was being used to upgrade the sanitary sewer system in their area.

The cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) slip-lining process that was used is one of the most widely implemented trenchless methods. It can be used in water, sewer, gas, and chemical pipelines where the pipeline is leaking or has separated joints.

CIPP is a jointless, seamless, pipe within a pipe. A resin-saturated felt tube made of polyester is pulled into an existing pipe. This is usually done from an access point, such as a manhole or excavated pit. Once the lining is in place, connections to service laterals (smaller lines branching off the main line, such as the pipe from your house to the main sewer line) are restored internally with robotically controlled cutting devices. The rehabilitated pipe is then inspected by closedcircuit television (CCTV).

Little to no digging is involved, making for a more environmentally friendly method than traditional “dig and replace” pipe repair methods. And with significantly less excavation required, road pavement, landscaping, and lawns remain undisturbed.

That means no bumpy pavement and no straw or bare dirt everywhere, waiting for grass and plants to grow back.

www.imaginemason.org

67

Around

Mason

Soldiers, Sabres and Spyes

Mason-Deerfield Arts Alliance

Revolutionaries, orators, Indians, artisans, traders, entertainers, and soldiers from the Revolutionary War through World War II will gather at Mason Municipal Center on Saturday, October 6. Watch American history come to life at this free event from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You’re invited!

Anyone interested in espionage will surely want to join Washington’s Culper gang. Your help is needed to root out the enemy “spyes!” Mystery pervades when a female soldier disguised as a man appears! The War of 1812 is celebrated through Francis Scott Key’s riveting story of the Star Spangled Banner. You can also see a panel of founding fathers debating our Constitution. Abraham Lincoln will then lend his thoughts on how our founding documents affected the decisions he made during the Civil War. Ladies young and old will all enjoy meeting America’s first ladies at the All American “first-lady” tea party. That could bring a surprise!

Featured guests from Colonial Williamsburg include Joyce Henry (the mystery soldier) and George Wythe, signer of the Declaration of Independence and lifelong mentor to Thomas Jefferson. Other traveling guests include Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, and Abraham Lincoln.

The event is sponsored by the American Spirit Education Alliance, a non-profit, 501-c3 organization dedicated to fostering an appreciation for our American heritage. Learn more at www.aseaohio.com.

The Mason-Deerfield Arts Alliance is bringing the arts to Mason Community Center this fall. The “FACE” Photography Exhibition, part of the Cincinnati city-wide FotoFocus Photography exhibition taking place throughout the tri-state, will be at Mason Community Center during the month of October.

One of the few exhibitions that conducted a “Call to Artists,” “FACE” will feature the work of both amateurs and professionals.

All are welcome at the opening night celebration from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 3. The photos will be on display at Mason Community Center from October 3 through the end of the month.

In November, the “Winter” Painting Exhibition is a holiday card contest for State Representative Peter Beck. The winner of this exhibition will win $500, have their image used as the holiday card for Rep. Beck, and have their painting hung at the State Capitol in Columbus. Entries are due by November 19.

Local and regional painters will enter this lovely exhibition.

Their work will depict winter scenes of the Warren County region and will be on display at Mason Community Center from November 26 through December 14. Plan to visit from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Monday, November 26, for opening night.

The award presentation will be at 6 p.m.

Both of these exhibits are free and open to the public whenever the Mason Community Center is open. Come and enjoy the work of local artists.

For more information about the Mason-Deerfield Arts Alliance or to download an application for the holiday card contest, please visit www.masonarts.org or call 513.309.8585.

Mason Historical Society for non-members. Please call the museum to inquire about availability.

Mason Historical Society’s museum is located at 207 West Church Street. It is open every Thursday and Friday from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and by appointment for tours. Please call the museum at 513.398.6750 or visit the web site at www.masonhistoricalsociety.org for information.

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Mason Historical Society will present a “Cemetery Walk” at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, October 16. This is a new tradition in Mason and will be held at Rose Hill Cemetery on Mason-Montgomery Road. People in costume will be located at different spots throughout Rose Hill Cemetery and will tell of the people who lived in this area 200 years ago. The cemetery tour is expected to be a popular event. Tickets may be sold out in advance so don’t wait to get yours. Tickets are $20 for members and $25

Mason

Annual Leaf Pickup Program

Mason Matters

Monday, October 8 - Friday, December 14

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FOR THE BEST SERVICE • Watch for orange and black signs at the entrance to your neighborhood at least two days prior to leaf collection.

• R ake the leaves as close to the curb as possible and cover them with some type of tarp.

• Please avoid raking leaves onto the sidewalk or into the street or storm sewers. Wet leaves are slippery and are dangerous to pedestrians, bicycle riders, and cars. Leaves clogging the storm sewers can cause flooding during heavy rains.

• Please do not rake twigs, branches, sticks, rocks, bottles, garden debris, etc., in with the leaves. These items can clog the machine and cause considerable delay to the leaf collection.

• Please avoid parking in front of large piles of leaves. It is difficult for the raking crew to work around parked cars.

October / November 2012

• I f you would like a load of leaves delivered to your property for compost, please contact the Public Works Department at 513.229.8580.

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Reading Road Work Coming To A Close

onstruction on U.S. 42 will soon be coming to an end now that most of the work has been completed. The improvements included widening U.S. 42 to two lanes in each direction, plus a turn lane, from Tylersville Road to Western Row Road and to one lane in each direction, plus a turn lane, south of Western Row to ButlerWarren Road.

New storm sewers, curbs and gutters, sidewalks and bike path have been installed.

Any remaining sections of bike path will be paved soon. Final pavement surface and striping of the road will follow the bike path paving. The remaining restoration and tree planting is expected to be completed in early fall.

During construction, two-way traffic has been maintained and is planned to be maintained in both directions for the remainder of the work. To reduce the impact on businesses, most of the water main shutdowns and paving work were completed at night.

The city is currently working with the Indiana & Ohio Railway to upgrade the rough railroad crossing at the Tylersville Road and U.S. 42 intersection. This work is expected to be complete in October of this year. It will be necessary to close portions of

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By late August, the sidewalk on the west side of U.S. 42 (at left in the photo) was in place, the bike path on the east side was ready for asphalt, and work on the medians was taking place south of Snider Road.

the intersection for about four days in order to complete the work as quickly as possible.

Signs will be posted in advance of the work.

The entire project is expected to be complete

and open to traffic by the end of 2012. The city appreciates the cooperation and patience of businesses, residents, and driving motorists while this project has been underway.

Mason Fire Department Offers CPR Classes to Mason Residents can be done by phone at 513.229.8555, in person, or online at www.imaginemason.org if you already have an account. (Select type of “enrichment” and subtype of “personal development.”)

In addition to the bi-monthly classes for residents, the Mason Fire Department also offers CPR classes to local businesses.

Please contact Mason Fire Administration at 513.229.8540 during regular business hours (8-4:30, M-F) to learn more about CPR classes for your business.

Mason Matters

hen a sudden illness happens, time is important. Could you help save a family member, a friend or a complete stranger? The City of Mason Fire Department can help you help someone else.

As part of its effort to make the community a safer place to live and work, the department offers bi-monthly CPR training for residents of Mason. The remaining 2012 classes will be held on the first Wednesday in October and December.

The course is free to Mason residents.

All CPR instructors are Mason Firefighter/ Paramedics and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) members. Adult and child CPR are taught as well as the proper operation of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). After completing the course, participants will receive a 2-year certification from the American Heart Association.

Classes will be held in the community room at Fire Station 51 at 4420 MasonMontgomery Road. Please register through the Mason Community Center. Registration

www.imaginemason.org

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Bike Safety

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walking, announce that you are coming and make sure the pedestrian hears and understands you. If they don’t seem to hear you, slow down and get off your bike, go around them, and then proceed on your ride. Doing this will prevent a collision with the pedestrian and possible injuries to both the pedestrian and you.

hen construction on U.S. 42 is completed later this year, the City of Mason will have over 20 miles of bike paths in addition to many miles of sidewalks. Pedestrians, runners, skateboarders, and bicyclists all benefit from the connections to many parts of the city.

Motorist vs. Bicyclist

Unfortunately, in the past couple of months, the City of Mason Police Department was called to several crashes involving motorists and bicyclists. Some of these incidents were the fault of the motorist, some were the bicyclist’s fault, and some have been both.

Most of the crashes have occurred in a crosswalk. Bicyclists who ride on the city’s sidewalks and bike paths have some responsibilities, as described in city ordinance 373.14. When coming to an intersection, the bicyclist is required to cross by WALKING the bicycle across or through the intersection.

Some of the crashes could have been avoided if the bicyclist would have adhered to this ordinance.

Motorists also have certain responsibilities when traveling through an intersection. When making a right turn on red, motorists should be sure they are allowed to make the turn and that the intersection is clear of all obstructions

The Serious Cyclist

prior to making the turn. Some of the crashes have been caused by the motorist not making these simple checks before turning.

Motorists and bicyclists should use extra precautions when going through an intersection. Most of the serious crashes occur in or near intersections. As mom always said, “Look both ways to make sure the roadway is clear before you cross.”

Bicyclist Meets Pedestrian

Pedestrians have the right of way over bicyclists on sidewalks and paths. When you are riding a bike and nearing a person

2013 Calendar Winners Honored

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Mason Matters

ongratulations to the 13 winners of the City of Mason’s 2013 Calendar Photo Contest! The winners were recognized at the August Council meeting. Shown (from left) are Vice Mayor Victor Kidd, Cliff Turrell - cover photo entitled “Proud of our Heritage and Town”, Praba Sundarajan - “Misty Morning” (February), Rosemary Wells “Winter Beauty” ( January), Fran Turrell - “Heros Remembered” (May), Leslie Kauffman - “Autumn Journey” (September), Harrison Baumbaugh - “Light the Night” ( June), Jackie Chunko “Mason – A Little Bit Country” ( July), Jim Simpson - “Autumn Splendor” (November), Barbara Lokar - “Breakfast This Way” (August), and Mayor David F. Nichols. Not shown: Ron Ferrell - “Memories in Mist” (March), Ernie Martin - “Spring Soccer” (April), Kathy Lawson - an untitled photo (October), and Janet Gay - “Snowy Morning on the Plaza” (December).

The 2013 calendars were distributed at the city’s booth at the Mason Heritage Festival. Remaining copies are available at Mason Municipal Center and Mason Community Center while the supply lasts. The city is grateful to Karaman Jewelers, TriHealth, Angilo’s, Yost

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For the serious bicyclist, the street may be the best solution.

When riding on the street, ride with the flow of traffic and obey traffic laws and regulations.

Motorists, use caution when coming upon a bicyclist and make sure there is enough distance between you and the rider to prevent any type of collision. The bicyclist also needs to use caution when riding on the street and with traffic. Keep in mind that you are not as visible as a motor vehicle so use extra precautions to make yourself visible. This can be done by wearing reflective gear when you ride. Just because you can see a vehicle approaching, it doesn’t mean the driver of that vehicle sees you.

Here’s one final and very important tip: ALWAYS WEAR YOUR HELMET WHEN CYCLING.

October / November 2012

Pharmacy, Mason Bowl, Mason Sign Company, Fifth Third Bank, Mason Dance Center, Westshore Pizza, Al’s Heating & Cooling, Quatman Café, Shorten & Ryan Funeral Home, Mason Coin, Mim’s Off Main, El Caporal, Tylersville Dental, and Subway. Because of their support of the calendar, the city is able to provide copies to residents at no cost to the city.