2023/10/30 - Mayor's Column: Holidays

“AN OPEN DOOR TO O’FALLON”
A WEEKLY NOTE FROM MAYOR HERB ROACH
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As we move into the busy Holiday Season, I would like to take a moment to say THANK YOU to all the churches, individuals and other organizations that offer meals, clothing, gifts and other assistance to families and individuals that need a helping hand. There are many families right here in our community that need a helping hand from time to time. It is so nice to see our citizens and different organizations step up to lend assistance.

For example, two years ago our city reached out to talk with local churches and organizations and formed a Resident Assistance Task Force to see what were some things that we could do to help those that truly needed some assistance. In cooperation with the others, the city established criteria that is used to qualify individuals or families for assistance with electrical and water bills.

During the first two years of the program, we have received some good assistance from the churches, St. Clair County, St. Vincent de Paul and others to identify and work together to help those of need.

This past year, the city has assisted over 180 individuals/families in our community through assistance with water and / or electric bills.

I hope that more of our citizens will do what they feel is appropriate during the coming holidays to make this holiday season a little brighter for those that are going through a rough stretch.

I know that our family has over the years helped with several different activities to help others over the Holidays and will do so again this year. We even have some of our oldest grandchildren now getting involved.

As residents of O’Fallon, you should always be able to reach out to your elected officials and ask questions about what is happening in O’Fallon. Having open communications is important to me and something I care very deeply about. Thank you for reading, and please remember, my door is always open.