At Tuesday’s City Council meeting our staff shared their usual updates on the city’s COVID-19 response efforts. I say “usual” because we have been doing this every two weeks since the beginning of the pandemic. I am a numbers person by nature, so I really like these updates. But I also like them because it’s a chance to hear from all parts of our city organization and be reminded of the good work happening, a lot of which would otherwise be behind the scenes.
I don’t want to ever take for granted that the Fire Department is managing procurement of personal protective equipment to maintain ample supply for our first responders. Staff working in our planning and building departments have had no break in activity, since construction was deemed from the outset to be an essential activity. We conducted 341 building inspections in the July/August timeframe, compared to 358 last year. Staff even created a video inspection program so inspectors don’t need to have an in person visit for certain types of projects. We’ve issued 72 permits for businesses to move operations outdoors, with 22 more in process.
Even though libraries have been closed until the recent addition of computer hours, we have processed 3,067 new library accounts since March. We started curbside service in July, with 75,524 materials checked out so far. Since we started accepting returns, we’ve had 86,321 items brought back!
As of last week, staff in our Parks & Recreation Department have provided 30,000 free meals to local seniors in need. Fun fact: staff who work at the pick-up location have established themed dress up days to provide a little levity to the process. This is always good for a few extra smiles!
I could go on – these are only examples from one branch of the city – Community Services. There is so much more. I share this not to brag (okay, I do like to brag about our team), but to show the sheer volume of work that goes on every day in your city, all with the goal of making the lives of our residents just a little better. Plus, this week is Customer Service Week, which has me thinking about all of our city workers who provide so many different kinds of service to our community.
