Texting While Driving

Council initially addressed the issue in 2010, but failed to agree on a local agenda that would mesh with laws in surrounding municipalities, including a ban in force in Columbus.

There is some movement now on the state level to enact an umbrella law. Senate hearings were scheduled for November on the proposed legislation, House Bill 99. The bill passed the Ohio House of Representatives in early 2011.

Pickerington City officials have decided to pursue a solution to a problem at the state level, instead of initiating a local enforcement policy.

The problem in question is texting while driving.

The City Council feels that a statewide ban on the practice would provide blanket protection of an appropriate nature, and would eliminate confusion caused when drivers encounter different interpretations and penalties driving from community to community.

Thirty-four states currently ban texting while driving. Some Ohio communities have developed their own policies.

Mayor Mitch O’Brien and the City Council voted unanimously to send letters indicating support for House Bill 99 to the chairman of the Ohio Senate Highway Committee, Tom Patton; Vice Chairman Frank LaRose; Sen. Tim Schaffer; and Rep. Gerald Stebelton.

Part of the language of the letter states, “As a community, we have suffered the loss of at least one young man as a result of an accident caused by the other driver being distracted while texting.” The letter concludes that, “It is imperative that we as a State enact such a ban in order to allow for consistent enforcement on our roadways.”

Ice Rink Opens Mid-December

The ice rink in Victory Park will be functional sometime in mid-December, as long as the surface is frozen.

Last year, the City tested ice skating interest levels by constructing a mini-rink in Victory Park. Consistent use convinced officials to install a bigger, more stable frame for this winter.

Current plans call for the rink to be situated on the tennis courts, near the O’Brien shelter. Recreation officials feel that the proximity of the shelter will en- courage hot chocolate, spectators and more skaters. There is also a fireplace that can be utilized.

There are no plans to rent the rink. It will be used on a first-come, first-served basis throughout the winter, closing on those days when the surface is not icy.

The rink will be open from dawn to dusk. No equipment is provided. Participants will skate at their own risk.

Letters to Santa

A North Pole Express mailbox has been placed in front of City Hall to collect letters addressed to Santa Claus by area children. Santa’s helpers will respond to each letter. The deadline for dropping letters will be Sunday, Dec. 11.

The Recreation Department is aided in the adventure by “helpers” at the Pickerington Senior Center. Each letter must include the child’s name and return address so Santa can respond.

Questions about the project should be directed to the Recreation Department at 614-833-2211.