 |
FROM THE MAYOR...
Hats Off to Main Street
On June 8th, a storm roared through the Glenview subdivision on Main Street. Our excellent fire department arrived immediately after the storm to assess the damage. They were in constant contact with AmerenIP to restore electrical service and fix gas leaks. I toured the area after the storm and stopped to talk to several residents concerning storm damage and to discuss when electrical power would be restored. I asked many of them what I could do to help. They had started the clean-up and the most important thing to them was that no one was hurt. I can’t tell you how proud I was of the attitude and generosity, as they helped each other.
At the time of my tour, the gas and electric had been off for about three hours. Most of the residents hadn’t eaten since the storm hit a little after 5 p.m. (right at suppertime). Residents were outside their homes; hot, hungry and tired. I asked a few citizens if pizza would help, and they told me it wasn’t necessary, but it would be nice. The only complaint I received, and they were kidding, is that I only sent 40 pizzas. Of course, they didn’t know there was only one pizza store that had power, and they stayed open to make pizzas for us. This neighborhood stood together to help each other. These types of citizens are what separates us from other communities. We are a “can-do” city with citizens who believe in individual
responsibility. They do not wait for someone else to take care of their problems.
At the same time, we have elderly and disabled citizens who can use a helping hand. Our city handles that through great volunteers who make themselves available for such aid. A call to City Hall generates a call to our unsung heroes who clean up tree limbs, mow grass, clean ditches, paint and build handicap ramps. To each and everyone who volunteers, I applaud your community service!
I am sorry if any resident was upset with the city. It is our belief that trees are private property, in your yard, and your personal responsibility. It isn’t our policy to put City employees to work for private homeowners cleaning up yards.
The City received only one call from Main Street for aid. It was a hardship, and volunteers were called and indeed helped the resident. Thank you, residents, for your American tradition of personal freedom and taking care of yourself.
It is an honor to serve you, and I appreciate being given the opportunity to work for the residents of O’Fallon. I am willing to meet one on one with anyone who has a concern about any issues related to our city. I welcome your suggestions and comments and encourage you to contact me at 624-4500. It is through your input and dialog on important issues that we will make O’Fallon an even better place to live and work.
Gary L. Graham
The six short videos showcase our quality of life, great schools, awesome parks, new conference center and real estate and relocation options. The O’Fallon Video Tour Book is located on the left side of our homepage. |
| |
