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Residents press the council on term limits, Millsdale Road safety and water access in public comments
Summary
Multiple residents used the public-comment period to press for term limits on elected officials, to ask for action on dangerous traffic at Millsdale Road, to urge greater recognition of south-side Chicago Street history, and to report a denial of water access at a private property.
During the March 18 public-comment period, a range of residents raised three recurring civic concerns: support for term limits for elected officials, traffic and safety problems on Millsdale Road, and local representation and historical recognition along Chicago Street. Separately, one resident said city crews had obstructed his water access and asked for immediate help.
Term limits: Multiple speakers urged the council to place term limits on the ballot or otherwise support an ordinance. George Sheridan and other commenters said surveys and research they have collected show broad voter support; Dr. Glenda Wright McComb, a candidate for council at large, asked the council to “hear the voice of the people” and respect residents’ wishes. Speakers suggested potential changes to the city’s ethics and disclosure rules and said a ballot measure would not affect incumbents already seated.
Millsdale Road safety: Joe Jenkins said truck and cut-through traffic on Millsdale Road remains hazardous and urged a permanent closure or other remedies. Council and staff replied that the city owns the road, that a turnaround is the intended long-term fix, but that ongoing litigation with HRE Partners is delaying construction of a permanent solution. Police enforcement actions were cited: staff said the police department previously issued nearly 70 tickets during a 48-hour enforcement period, but sustained enforcement is limited.
Chicago Street legacy and representation: Trista Brown and others urged city leaders to do more to celebrate and preserve African American heritage on Chicago Street, including banners and markers honoring local figures. Council members said a consultant workshop tied to a grant will meet stakeholders to gather ideas and implement elements of the grant project.
Water access complaint: Brian Bentonhausen said a concrete block had been placed above his water valve and that the city had denied him access to water; he asked for immediate restoration of service. Council and staff asked for his contact details so staff could follow up and indicated they would have personnel check the situation after the meeting.
Other: A resident reported repeated early garbage pickups and rude behavior by collection crews; staff asked for the resident’s address to investigate with the contractor. The council reiterated it will follow up on these operational complaints.
Ending: City staff committed to follow up on specific operational complaints (water access, garbage collection) and to continue negotiating a Millsdale Road fix while litigation is pending. Speakers urged structural changes such as term limits and greater cultural recognition; council members said those policy ideas can be pursued in committee and encouraged further public participation.
