During a recent city council meeting, community concerns regarding family housing and traffic safety on First Avenue were at the forefront of discussions. A resident, who identified himself as an 80-year-old former city official, expressed his support for the proposed family housing initiative but urged the council to clarify the definition of \"temporary\" housing and consider the associated costs for cleanup and utilities. He emphasized the importance of careful planning, especially regarding funding, as competition for grant money is high.

Following this, city staff presented a detailed report on First Avenue, which has been a longstanding traffic concern due to its residential nature and proximity to two major highways. The police department has received complaints about speeding and heavy commercial vehicle use, prompting a review of traffic data. Recent counts indicated daily traffic volumes ranging from 1,477 to 1,984 vehicles, with peak hours exceeding 80 vehicles.

The staff highlighted a significant safety incident involving a distracted driver that raised alarms about the potential dangers for residents, particularly children. In response, staff proposed four options to address the traffic issues, with a recommended solution involving the installation of speed tables. Two types of speed tables were discussed: costly concrete models priced between $10,000 and $15,000, and more affordable bolted versions at around $800, though the latter come with concerns about theft and safety.

The council is expected to deliberate on these options in upcoming meetings, as community safety and effective housing solutions remain critical priorities for local governance.