During a recent government meeting, community members voiced concerns regarding local environmental issues, park lighting, and regulations on bed and breakfast establishments.

Rhonda highlighted the troubling state of newly planted trees and shrubs, noting that out of 275 new trees, approximately 20 have died. She criticized the lack of proper plant care, particularly the absence of water bags for street trees, which has contributed to the decline in plant health. Rhonda pointed out discrepancies in the size and quality of the shrubbery, stating that what was advertised as a 24-inch diameter plant was actually much smaller and poorly maintained.

Donna Stroma addressed the lighting situation at Mickey Gordon Park, advocating for the elimination of lights from dawn to dusk, arguing that they are unnecessary until midnight. She also supported limiting bed and breakfast accommodations to three bedrooms, echoing sentiments shared by other residents.

Laura Francis raised concerns about speeding in her neighborhood, suggesting the installation of speed bumps on Stonewall Avenue to curb excessive speeds, which she attributed to drivers bypassing traffic on Washington. She also reiterated support for maintaining the three-bedroom limit for bed and breakfasts and opposed the park lighting.

Nancy Gardner joined the discussion, reinforcing the call to remove the lights at Mickey Gordon Park and expressing her opposition to increasing the bed and breakfast limit to five bedrooms.

The meeting underscored a collective community effort to address local environmental sustainability, safety, and residential regulations, reflecting a proactive approach to maintaining the quality of life in the area.