During a recent city council meeting, residents raised significant concerns regarding local construction projects and traffic safety. Gary Kozak, a long-time resident, addressed the council about the ongoing Sam's Automotive Project, questioning whether proper asbestos abatement procedures were followed during construction. He expressed worries about dust and debris affecting the health of neighborhood children and urged the council to take action to protect residents from potential health hazards.

Kozak's comments highlighted the lack of dust control measures at the construction site, which he claimed has resulted in excessive dust accumulation on vehicles and in the air. He called for the city to investigate the situation and ensure that safety protocols are being adhered to, particularly regarding asbestos, which was commonly used in buildings constructed before its ban.

Another resident, Ivan Erwin, spoke about traffic safety issues on Jason Street, where recent construction has led to confusion among drivers. He criticized the city for not implementing the promised raised crosswalk, which was intended to slow down traffic. Erwin emphasized the need for physical traffic calming measures, such as speed bumps or a properly elevated crosswalk, to enhance safety for pedestrians.

The council members acknowledged the residents' concerns and committed to investigating the issues raised. They discussed the need for further information regarding the asbestos abatement process and the traffic calming measures that were initially proposed for Jason Street. The city manager assured residents that complaints would be taken seriously and that enforcement measures would be implemented if necessary.

The meeting also touched on other community issues, including library hours and affordable housing initiatives, with council members expressing a desire to address residents' needs more effectively. Overall, the discussions underscored the council's commitment to community health and safety, as well as the importance of responsive governance in addressing resident concerns.