Resident group reports walk audit, urges survey responses to support local home services

Marie Halava brought an update to the council about a walk audit conducted Sept. 15 by Pine Island Age‑Friendly. “We had 35 people that attended — nine of which were under 18, 14 were 19 to 54 years old and 12 were over 55,” Halava said, describing a cross‑section of ages who tested routes and identified hazards.

Halava said participants focused on Main Street traffic speed, incorrect turns by drivers and a “big intersection down at Island Market Quick Trip.” The walk began at the senior center and covered downtown blocks, the 301 apartments, the fire department, the old Better Brew corner and sidewalks adjacent to the Lutheran church, she said.

The event included representatives from area organizations, Halava added: “Mayor Freeze was there, Commissioner Todd, Miss Angie’s Place, Sarah Dawson from Good Hue County, Dana Bergner from Three Rivers, and aroko Age‑Friendly Jessica Thornton from Family Services Rochester.” She also noted students involved through FCCLA were considering a teen road‑safety report tied to a national FCCLA program that could bring $1,000 in awards if selected.

Halava urged residents to complete a survey from Pine Island Area Home Services by Nov. 8 so the organization can secure funding. “If you receive their newsletter even if you’re not an older adult please complete the survey inside that survey is going to allow them to apply for the money that they have now to keep that funding,” she said.

Council members thanked Halava and other volunteers for organizing the audit and staff indicated they will review the compiled comments to identify priorities for city and county follow‑up. The council did not take any formal action at the meeting beyond accepting the report into the public record.