During a recent city council meeting, residents voiced significant concerns regarding local safety and taxation issues. Tony Shofalo, a resident since 2017, highlighted two primary safety concerns affecting the community.

Shofalo commended the city for its maintenance of parks and public spaces, contrasting it with his recent experience in Baltimore, where he felt the upkeep was lacking. However, he raised alarms about the dangers posed by cyclists on the Ringling Bridge walkway. He noted that many cyclists ignore existing signage, creating hazardous conditions for pedestrians, particularly those who may be distracted by music through earphones. Shofalo suggested enhancing signage and encouraging local hotels to inform tourists about the rules regarding cycling on the bridge to mitigate these risks.

Additionally, Shofalo expressed concern about frequent accidents at the Ringling 41 roundabout, estimating that incidents occur weekly, often resulting in minor fender benders. He urged the council to address these safety issues to protect both residents and visitors.

The discussions reflect ongoing community concerns about public safety and the need for improved communication and infrastructure to ensure a safer environment for all.