3 minute read
Mayor Jermaine Wilson
As we move into the second half of 2023, I am proud of what has been accomplished and what is still ahead of us.
The City's new trash cart program is now fully in operation. This summer, residents received roughly 9,000 new trash carts for the first time in the First City of Kansas. Those who wished to continue using trash bags have been allowed to opt out. This entire program was paid using a federal grant program at no additional fee increase and no tax increases for Leavenworth residents. The goal of the program was to help clean up neighborhoods, respond to years of requests from residents, and to streamline work for our refuse collection team.
We are now several months into the new transportation program, RideLV, providing $2 rides to anywhere in the City. This project is operated by the Guidance Center and runs 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Ridership has been steadily growing with an average of about 300 rides weekly. Top locations include grocery stores, medical offices, the Leavenworth Public Library and many other places of work.
I’m happy to announce Leavenworth's Big Brothers and Big Sisters Mentoring Program is up and running. Our first match took place on August 7, 2023.
The Hawthorn Park Splash Pad officially opened in May and has provided a nocost option for children and families to cool off during one of the hottest summers on record.
As we write this article, the City Commission is finalizing adoption of the annual budget for the year 2024, scheduled to be approved after a public hearing August 22. The proposed budget includes a 2.689 drop in the local mill levy while maintaining service levels. It also includes the 5-Year Capital Improvements Project funding for
several needed projects such as replacing Fire Station 3, new playground equipment at Southside Park and a completely new sports court project at Cody Park, to include pickle ball and basketball courts. We feel so fortunate to be able to provide these things to the community we all call home. Fall is packed with family-friendly activities including our signature festival, Camp Leavenworth. I know your family will find something fun at this event taking place September 22-23. Be sure to stick around for the fireworks at 8 p.m. Friday. Other events include:
- Trunk-or-Treat 5 - 7 p.m. Saturday Oct. 21 at Sportsfield Park
- Safe Trick or Treat Downtown Leavenworth at participating businesses, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday Oct. 28.
- Leavenworth County Veterans Day Parade 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Saturday Nov. 11.
- Mayor's Holiday Tree Lighting Leavenworth 4 - 7 p.m. Friday Nov. 17 at Haymarket Square, Seventh and Cherokee Streets.
Together we will continue to grow forward as a community. God bless and Happy Fall!
