During a recent city council meeting, community members voiced pressing concerns regarding urban infrastructure and homelessness, highlighting the need for strategic reforms.

Peter, representing Citizens United to Repair Broken Sidewalks (CURBS), emphasized the disproportionate allocation of city funds, noting that only 1% of the $1 million budget for street repairs is dedicated to pedestrian projects. He argued that this funding imbalance reflects a lack of consideration for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and young children who rely on safe sidewalks. Peter proposed a model from Edmonton, Alberta, where homeowners are required to repair sidewalks during property sales or renovations. He suggested that adopting a similar policy could alleviate sidewalk issues without imposing additional taxes on the city, which is currently facing budget constraints.

Curtis Blankenship, a long-time resident, addressed the issue of \"zombie properties\"—abandoned commercial buildings that depress local property values and tax revenues. He proposed offering tax breaks to owners of these properties to convert them into temporary shelters for the homeless. Blankenship, who holds a degree in sustainable design, suggested innovative solutions such as incinerating toilets and on-demand water heaters to facilitate this transition. He criticized the city’s past decisions to support large corporations, like Walmart, at the expense of local businesses and urged the council to reconsider its priorities.

Both speakers called for a reevaluation of city policies to better serve the community's needs, advocating for practical solutions to improve infrastructure and address homelessness. The discussions reflect a growing demand for more inclusive urban planning and resource allocation that prioritizes the well-being of all residents.