JULY 2013
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SUMMER, A Time For Fun And Safety By Mayor Eric H. Jones Jr.
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In City Government
WHO’S WHO
chool’s out, the days are longer, and the weather is warmer. It is a perfect time for children to head outside and play but along with the fun comes the potential for more injury. As a word of caution, I admonish you to watch small children around water, sunny afternoons by the pool, cookouts with family and friends, a family road trip, and camp; the sacred rituals of childhood summer. But as parents relax, pediatricians are warning them to be on high alert, in a commentary published in the journal Pediatrics. Injuries - injuries that parents can prevent - are the leading cause of death in children, according to the report. One in three pediatric deaths worldwide, and more than 12,000 pediatric yearly deaths in United States children, comes from unintentional accidents. Think of it this way: More than 30 children die every day in the United States and those who do not die from their injuries still account for 9.2 million medical visits by children every year. "Many parents do not realize that injuries are the leading cause of death in children and most of these are preventable," said ABC News Chief Health and Medical Editor Dr. Richard Besser, who is also the author of "Tell Me the Truth, Doctor" and a practicing pediatrician. Pediatricians warn parents to be vigilant as well as informed. "The most important thing for the parents to do is to get the appro-
WEST
Mayor Eric H. Jones, Jr.
priate information and possibilities of how to prevent it," lead commentary author Dr. Michael Höllwarth, professor in the Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Surgery at the Medical University, Graz, Austria, said via e-mail. So here they are the leading causes of unintentional deaths, and a few tips to keep your kids safe, and remember that there is no need to be paranoid. But there is also no reason to lose a child when you can stop it from happening. Based upon the article that I read there were listed five summer injury risks for kids:
Drowning BIGGEST DANGER: Home swimming
pools. Thirty percent of all unintentional deaths for toddlers one to four years old were drowning’s, most in that backyard we consider so safe. "The most effective means of prevention is to never leave children unsupervised when they are in water". Other tips include keeping a four-sided fence around larger pools to prevent unsupervised access and using lifejackets when you are in lakes, ponds or the ocean. Take swimming lessons. Even tiny children can learn to swim to the side and hold on but constant, careful supervision is key.
Burns BIGGEST DANGER: Indoor cooking.
Fire-related injuries are responsible for 9.1 percent of unintentional deaths among kids
PARK
Vice Mayor Felicia M. Brunson
CITY ,
––––––––––See SUMMER page 4
Commissioner Thomas Dorsett
The Commission Recognized The Youth Council Committee Graduates
(Pictured from Left to Right): Commissioner Thomas Dorsett, Vice Mayor Felicia M. Brunson, Tianna Campbell, Anissa Gaskin, Woodlean Ambroise, Mayor Eric H. Jones, Sheneil Wesley, Lathania Richards, Commissioner Rita “Peaches” Mack, and Commissioner Sharon Fyffe.
Commissioner Thomas Dorsett presents Proclamation for Small Cities Month to National League of Cities (NLC), during the Small Cities Steering Council event in Canandaigua, NY in June.
(Pictured from Left to Right): Mr. Chris Coleman, Mayor of St. Paul, MN, & Incoming President of NLC, Ms. Ellen Polimeni, Mayor of Canandaigua, NY & Outgoing President of NLC Small Cities Steering Committee, Mr. Stuart Glespy, Incoming President of NLC Small Cities Steering Committee, and Commissioner Thomas Dorsett.
OFFICIALS
Commissioner Sharon Fyffe
Commissioner Rita “Peaches” Mack
City Manager W. Ajibola Balogun
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Summer Water Safety By Vice Mayor Felicia M. Brunson
W
hen the wea ther turns w a r m , everyone wants to be in or around the water. Hanging out at the pool or the beach on a hot day is a great way to beat the heat. But with the recent rise in tragedies surrounding swimming, I wanted to provide some summer water safety tips for residents. Between having fun and soaking up some sun, most people don't think much about water safety — but they should. For people between the ages of 5 and 24, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death. It doesn't have to be that way, though. Most water-related accidents can be avoided by knowing how to stay safe and following a few simple guidelines. Learning how to swim is essential if you plan on being on or near water. Many organizations provide swim instruction to people of all ages, check with West Park’s Parks and Recreation Department to see what classes are available in our area.
Swimming Smarts "Buddy up!" That's what swimming instructors say. Always swim with a partner, every time — whether you're swimming in a backyard pool or in a lake. Even experienced swimmers can become tired or get muscle cramps, which might make it difficult to get out of the water. When people swim together, they can help each other or go for help in case of an emergency. Get skilled. Speaking of emergencies, it's good to be prepared. Learning some life-saving skills, such as CPR and rescue techniques, can help you save a life. A number of organizations offer free classes for both beginning and experienced swimmers.
Know your limits. Swimming can be a lot of fun — and you might want to stay in the water as long as possible. If you're not a good swimmer or you're just learning to swim, don't go in water that's so deep you can't touch the bottom and don't try to keep up with skilled swimmers. That can be hard, especially when your friends are challenging you — but it's a pretty sure bet they'd rather have you safe and alive. If you are a good swimmer and have had lessons, keep an eye on friends who aren't as comfortable or as skilled as you are. If it seems like they (or you) are getting tired or a little uneasy, suggest that you take a break from swimming for a while. Swim in safe areas only. It's a good idea to swim only in places that are supervised by a lifeguard. No one can anticipate changing ocean currents, rip currents, sudden storms, or other hidden dangers. In the event that something does go wrong, lifeguards are trained in rescue techniques. Swimming in an open body of water (like a river, lake, or ocean) is different from swimming in a pool. You need more energy to handle the currents and other changing conditions in the open water. If you do find yourself caught in a current, don't panic and don't fight the current. Try to swim parallel to the shore until you are able to get out of the current, which is usually a narrow channel of water. Gradually try to make your way back to shore as you do so. If you're unable to swim away from the current, stay calm and float with the current. The current will usually slow down, then you can swim to shore. Even a very good swimmer who tries to swim against a strong current will get worn out. If you're going to be swimming in an open body of water, it's a great idea to take swimming lessons that provide you with tips on handling unexpected hazards. Some areas with extremely strong currents are off limits when it comes to
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swimming. Do your research so you know where not to swim, and pay attention to any warning signs posted in the area. Be careful about diving. Diving injuries can cause permanent spinal cord damage, paralysis, and sometimes even death. Protect yourself by only diving in areas that are known to be safe, such as the deep end of a supervised pool. If an area is posted with "No Diving" or "No Swimming" signs, pay attention to them. A "No Diving" sign means the water isn't safe for a head-first entry. Even if you plan to jump in feet first, check the water's depth before you leap to make sure there are no hidden rocks or other hazards. Lakes or rivers can be cloudy and hazards may be hard to see. Watch the sun. Sun reflecting off the water or off sand can intensify the burning rays. You might not feel sunburned when the water feels cool and refreshing, but the pain will catch up with you later — so remember to reapply sunscreen frequently and cover up much of the time. Don't forget your hat, UV protection sunglasses, and protective clothing. Drink plenty of fluids. It's easy to get dehydrated in the sun, particularly if you're active and sweating. Keep up with fluids — particularly water — to prevent dehydration. Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or nausea can be signs of dehydration and overheating. Getting too cool. Speaking of temperature, it's possible to get too cool. How? Staying in very cool water for long periods can lower your body temperature. A temperature of 70°F (20°C) is positively balmy on land, but did you know that water below that temperature will feel cold to most swimmers? Your body temperature drops far more quickly in water than it does on land. And if you're swimming, you're using energy and losing body heat even faster than if you were keeping still. Monitor yourself when swimming in cold water and
stay close to shore. If feel your body start to shiver or your muscles cramp up, get out of the water quickly; it doesn't take long for hypothermia to set in. Alcohol and water never mix. Alcohol is involved in numerous waterrelated injuries and up to half of all water-related deaths. The statistics for teenage guys are particularly scary: One half of all adolescent male drownings are tied to alcohol use.
At the Water Park OK, so you do more splashing than swimming, but it's just as important to know your skill level at the water park as it is at the pool. Take a moment to read warnings and other signs. Each area in the water park can have different depths of water, so make sure you pay attention. If you don't know how to swim be sure to wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket when necessary, and be sure there is lifeguard supervision. And make sure you do slide runs feet first or you'll put yourself at risk for a ride that's a lot less fun — one to your doctor or dentist.
Now Have Fun! The pool and the beach are great places to learn new skills, socialize, and check out everyone's new bathing suit. So don't let paying attention to safety turn you off. Being prepared will make you feel more comfortable and in charge. Have a safe summer West Park! Remember to contact me at City Hall with your ideas, suggestions or concerns. I represent you and appreciate your input into the continued success of our beloved city. I can be reached at (954) 889-4164
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SUMMER, from page 1 ––––––––– worldwide, according to the Pediatrics article. Maintain your smoke alarms to give children time to escape. Use stoveguards to keep a child's curiosity (and hands) from getting in the wrong place, and prevent scalding injuries. Camp fires and barbecues are delightful, but parents should keep a close eye on potential hazards outdoors. Give your kids a chance to play out a fire emergency and get to a meeting point under your watchful eye. It could save their lives.
Falls BIGGEST DANGER: For little
kids, its changing-tables; for bigger kids, it is summer sports and bikes. Globally, more than four percent of pediatric deaths are associated with falls. Almost 2.8 million children a year are injured by them. Bike injuries to children and adolescents? They add up
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July 2013
to 26,000 traumatic brain injuries a year. This one may be the easiest for parents of infants. The routine use of guardrails and stair gates, changing diapers on the floor and using highchairs with safety belts will make a big difference. In older children, make it a family rule to use basic protective sports gear. That means you wear a bike helmet, too.
NHTSA, seats meant a 71% reduction in infant injuries; a 54% reduction for toddlers. The safest spot? The middle of the back seat. That back seat is the best place for all children younger than 13 years old. Front seat airbags can hurt kids. Seat belts are a must. They lead to a 45% reduction in crash deaths.
dents. In 2009, more than 1,300 children ages 14 and younger died as occupants in motor vehicle crashes in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). An additional 179,000 children were injured. "Road traffic injuries with cars are among the leading causes of death and permanent disability beyond the age of 5 years," Dr. Hölllwarth wrote. Use of age-appropriate child safety seats on those summer road trips (or even to the grocery store for more watermelon). In a study by
cleaners, and medications. Globally, poisonings result in 3.9% of all deaths, and here at home more than 300 children are treated every day as a result of being poisoned. Two of these children die. Keep cleaning supplies out of sight and, outdoors, be aware of dangerous chemicals left within the reach of curious children. Keep the toll-free number for the Poison Control Center (1-800222-1222) near the phone. On a personal note I have had the unpleasant tasks of comforting two families that have lost children to
Poisonings BIGGEST DANGER: Unexpected
Road Traffic Injuries poisons like citronella oil in Tiki torchBIGGEST DANGER: Car acci- es, cosmetics, and of course, household
drowning within the last month and the summer has just begun. In closing I want to leave you with a few extra tips. Summertime is a time for fun, but as you can see it is also when more children are injured in accidents. Here are a few extra tips I want to offer for safety: p Always make sure your child is wearing a helmet on a bike, scooter, ATV, etc. p Make sure your child's bicycle or ATV is the appropriate size for them. p Always supervise children when they are swimming, playing near campfires, lighting fireworks, etc. p Never leave a child locked in a car just to run inside, even for a few seconds. p Provide a safe place for your child to play, such as in the backyard.
Enjoy your summer and be safe. God bless you All, God bless o u r C it y, an d Go d b less America.
Happy Fourth of July West Park! By Vice Mayor Felicia M. Brunson
A
s we celebrate 4th of July, I'd like to encourage all West Park residents to cooperate in making this one of the safest and most enjoyable Fourth of Julys ever! Independence Day has always had special significance in our city. All of us are blessed to live in the greatest city, state and country that the world has ever known. We enjoy privileges and freedoms that exemplify the zenith of human civilization. And while each of us has the right to celebrate the birth of our nation in their own way, no one has the right to endanger the lives or safety of others. This year let’s have safe July 4th celebrations and in observing the laws and the rights of others. West Park let’s display true patriotism, and a true appreciation for what it means to be an American.
Let's all work to keep the spirit of mutual respect and love of country alive, not just on Independence Day, but year round in the City of West Park. As you enjoy this holiday with family and friends, I hope you will take a moment to recognize how fortunate we are to live in this country, this state and this very special city. West Park is a community with safe clean neighborhoods, beautiful parks and excellent surrounding schools. This high quality of life doesn’t just happen. It is residents working together to make life better for all. I also urge you to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. Please remember those serving in the military, who are advancing the cause of freedom
around the world. Fly your flag proudly as we celebrate our nation’s birthday, and have a happy and safe 4th of July West Park! Remember to contact me at City Hall with your ideas, suggestions or concerns. I represent you and appreciate your input into the continued success of our beloved city. I can be reached at (954) 889-4164 or email fbrunson@cityofwestpark.org.
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From the Desk of Commissioner Dorsett great City. To ensure that our City benefit from these opportunities, I have provided all the materials from the meeting to our City Manager.
BY COMMISSIONER DORSETT
As a member of the National L e a g u e of Cities’ (NLC) Small Cities Council Steering Committee, I atten ded this year’s s u m m e r meeting. Lots of informative topics discussed during the meeting are: The Overwhelming Importance of Water; Role of Local Agriculture & Relationship to Small Cities; Fiber Ring Presentation; Landfill & Gas Facility; and Sharing of Best Practices with other Small Cities. These types of interesting opportunities are ideas that we use to continue improving our
National League of Cities Small Cities Council Steering Committee Picture taken during 2013 Summer Steering Committee Meeting
NLC's Small Cities Council works to ensure that the interests of small communities are reflected in NLC's overall policies and programs and provides a forum for sharing ideas and best practices among smaller communities. To obtain some of the information presented at the meeting or to find out more about NLC Small Cities Council Steering Committee, please contact the City Manager at 954.989.2688 or me.
Have a wonderful summer!
OUTDOOR FIRE SAFETY TIPS From The Fire Department
Summer Storm Fire Safety
Protect yourself, your family and your home from the potential threat of fire during or after a summer storm. Every year Americans look forward to summer vacations, camping, family reunions, picnics, and the Fourth of July. Summertime, however, also brings fires and injuries due to fireworks and outdoor grills. Annually thousands of Americans are injured by fireworks and almost 5,000 are injured by charcoal/wood-burning and propane grill fires. Families also enjoy camping in the summer. It is important to follow the park's rules for the use and extinguishing of campfires. Fireworks Safety The best way to protect your family is not to use any fireworks at home - period. Attend public fireworks displays and leave the lighting to the professionals. If you ultimately decide to engage in this very dangerous activity, make sure fireworks are legal in your area and follow these safety tips: • Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass. • Always have a bucket of water and/or a fire extin-
guisher nearby. • Know how to operate the fire extinguisher properly. • Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks. • Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. If a devise does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate it. Put it out with water and dispose of it. • Always read the directions and warning labels on fireworks. If a devise is not marked with the contents, direction and a warning label, do not light it. • Supervise children around fireworks at all times.
Barbecue Safety
• Before using a grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line. Make sure the venturi tubes - where the air and gas mix - are not blocked. • Do not overfill the propane tank. • Do not wear loose clothing while cooking at a barbecue. • Be careful when using lighter fluid. Do not add fluid to an already lit fire because the flame can flashback up into the container and explode. • Keep all matches and lighters away from children. Teach your children to report any loose matches or lighters to an adult immediately. Supervise children around outdoor grills.
• Dispose of hot coals properly - douse them with plenty of water, and stir them to ensure that the fire is out. Never place them in plastic, paper or wooden containers. • Never grill/barbecue in enclosed areas - carbon monoxide could be produced. • Make sure everyone knows to Stop, Drop and Roll in case a piece of clothing does catch fire. Call 911 or your local emergency number if a burn warrants serious medical attention. Campfire Safety • Build campfires where they will not spread, away from dry grass and leaves. • Keep campfires small, and don't let them get out of hand. • Keep plenty of water and a shovel around to douse the fire when you're done. Stir it and douse it again with water. • Never leave campfires unattended.
Summertime should be a time for fun and making happy memories. Knowing a few outdoor fire safety tips and following instructions will help everyone have a safe summer.
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CERTIFICATE OF USE: PURPOSE AND PROCESS From Sarah Sinatra, Planning Department Manager
Prior to opening any business in the City of West Park, a Certificate of Use must be obtained. The Certificate of Use assures that the business is allowed in the zoning district where it is located. It also verifies that the structure was built for the proposed type of business. Businesses must also have a Local Business Tax Receipt. The Certificate of Use allows for the occupancy of the structure as well as certifying that the use is permitted. However, the Local Business Tax is a tax on the business activity. After a Certificate of Use has been issued, a business may apply for the Local Business Tax Receipt. In order to receive a Certificate of Use, business owners may submit a Certificate of Use application to the City of West Park. Prior to the formal submittal of the application, the City offers a courtesy, no charge, zoning review. The purpose of this review is to determine if the use is permitted prior to the applicant investing in the property or signing a lease. This is not mandatory and is only a benefit to the potential business owner. The application is first reviewed for compliance with relevant zoning regulations by the Planning and Zoning Department. If the application meets zoning requirements, the Building Department and Fire Department will review the application and inspect the property to ensure building and fire codes are met. If the application passes Building and Fire Department reviews and inspections, the Certificate of Use is issued. Once the Certificate of Use is issued, the property owner can apply for a Business Tax Receipt. If the application does not pass Building and Fire Department review and inspection, the Certificate of Use process goes on hold. The applicant may then apply for a building permit to correct deficiencies. The building permit application is reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Department for compliance with relevant zoning regulations. The Building and Fire Departments also review the application and performs inspections. If the building permit is approved, the Certificate of Use may be issued. Once the Certificate of Use is issued, the applicant may apply for a Business Tax Receipt. An application for the Certificate of Use may be found on the City’s website at www.cityofwestpark.org.
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Business Tax Receipts Frequently Asked Questions What is a Local Business Tax?
What about Zoning requirements?
The Business Tax is a tax for the privilege of engaging in or managing any business, profession or occupation within the city limits. In order to operate a business based in the City of West Park, you will need to pay the Business Tax. Whether your business is operated from a commercial location or is home-based, the Business Tax is required pursuant to both local and state laws.
The City is divided into a variety of commercial and residential zones, which groups similar types of uses together. It is important to check to see if the location you choose allows for the type of business you want to do. You may contact the City Building Department for courtesy zoning review for your proposed business.
How much does a Business Tax Receipt cost?
Why is it required to have a Business Tax Business Tax Receipt fees vary from one classiReceipt? fication to another and many fees are based on Licenses are required for three main purposes: • To identify your business and make sure you are accountable for your actions • To protect the public health and safety • To keep track of your finances for tax purposes
variables like "Type of Business" or "cost of inventory." New business tax receipts are prorated if the business starts on or after April 1. The cost is reduced by 50% of the regular fee.
The City showcases Businesses with current Business Tax Receipt in West Park Newspaper and the City’s website. By having records of the types of businesses in the City, the City is able to seek for and make available incentive for our local businesses. Incentives such as Enterprise zone opportunities. Businesses within the Enterprise zone are able to take advantage of: • EZ Job Tax Credit; • EZ Property Tax Credit; • Building Material Sales Tax Refund; and • Building Equipment Sales Tax Refund.
the nearly 200 business tax receipt classifications and are required to have a business tax receipt for each classification. Additionally, each location of a business is considered a separate business and requires separate business tax receipts.
Do I need just one business tax receipt for What are the benefits for having a my business? Business Tax Receipt? Many businesses operate under more than one of year, to avoid penalties of up to 25%. Failure to receive a notice is not an excuse for nonpayment. Once your payment is received, your tax receipt will be mailed to you. When you receive your tax When will my business tax receipt expire? receipt it must be posted in a conspicuous place, The business tax receipt year is October 1st - visible for public inspection. We except Check, September 30th. All business tax receipts expire Credit Card and Money Order for business tax receipt payments. September 30th.
How do I renew my business tax receipt?
Renewal courtesy notices are mailed August 1 For further information, please contact the and are due no later than September 30th of the Permit and Account Analyst at 954-989-2688.
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2013 Hurricane Preparedness Guide Continued
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2013 Hurricane Preparedness Guide Continued
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2013 Hurricane Preparedness Guide Continued
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