Gahanna in the News

Mayor: City Needs Residents to Move Cars,
Shovel Sidewalks

Original story by Marla K. Kuhlman, ThisWeek Community News

City officials considering ideas to address the aftermath of large snowfalls when it comes to clearing sidewalks and moving vehicles so plows are able to clear streets.

During the Feb. 10 council committee meeting, Mayor Becky Stinchcomb said some warnings were issued to residents who didn't move vehicles so plows could clear streets following the storm that dumped about 10 inches of snow.

"Some people don't have anywhere else to park," she said. "It would be nice if people could move their cars after a snowstorm. We also have a poor compliance (with sidewalks). We went door to door on Granville (Street), trying to get people to clear sidewalks. A lot of places the sidewalks are close to the road. I understand it's a real challenge."

Gahanna police fielded numerous reports about people walking in roadways because sidewalks weren't shoveled.

Stinchcomb said many students weren't able to use sidewalks because of the snow.

"We've had senior citizens with walkers who literally can't get to where they need to go," she said.

Council member Brian Larick asked how the city handled residents who hadn't moved vehicles. He said several people didn't move cars on his street.

Service director Dottie Franey said the worst-case scenario is when cars are parked on the street across from each other, leaving no room for plows to pass.

Click here to read the complete story.

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Council Mulls Ways to Hasten Business Growth

Original Story by Marla K. Kuhlman, ThisWeek Community News

This Week news logo Gahanna City Council is focusing heavily on ways to improve economic development.

Council member Brian Larick asked development director Anthony Jones on Feb. 10 how the city could be successful in retaining businesses and attracting others with the highest positive return.

He also asked how to best fund activities the city needs.

Jones pointed to the importance of existing staff members, including economic development manager Emanuel Torres, and of filling the position of deputy development director. He said a second round of interviews was scheduled for Feb. 14 for the vacant position.

Jones said he has received positive feedback from companies about Gahanna bringing pertinent players to the table when the city is being considered as a home for businesses.

Click here to read the complete story.

Upcoming City Events & Information

City Offers Helpful Tips for Keeping Storm Drains Clear

After receiving heavy snow falls over the past few weeks, meteorologists are forecasting warmer temperatures over the next few days. As snow and ice melt, the City of Gahanna is asking residents, who are physically able, to assist crews by making sure storm drains and catch basins around your home are clear of snow and ice.

Clearing these areas will allow water to flow into the drains and away from the streets. Although storm drains will open up naturally from the heat of the earth underground, it may not happen fast enough to avoid potential flooding of streets and water back-ups into basements.

Below are a few helpful tips on how you can remove impacted snow around your home:

DO clear a path around the drain with a shovel and brush away any snow that is left.

DO NOT push impacted snow into the storm drain.

DO have salt on hand, apply salt to the area around the drain. This will help melt any ice that remains around the drain surface.

DO place the snow onto a grassy area like the tree lawn or in your yard.

DO NOT place the snow from around storm drains back into the street. This might create a driving hazard.

DO clear the snow and ice away from your curb cut to allow your sump pump to drain water away from your house and into the storm drain outlets.

DO NOT pour hot water into areas around a storm drain. The water will freeze and create a slipping hazard.

DO NOT open or move steel grates that cover storm drain openings and NEVER enter a storm drain.

DO call the Department of Public Service if you have any questions or concerns at 342-4005.

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Please Mark your Calendar!

FREE EVENT - OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Mayor Becky Stinchcomb will deliver the annual State of the City address. This year's presentation will highlight 2013 accomplishments and discuss progress and plans for 2014. Additionally, the Mayor will discuss the administration's outlook to address current and future challenges for the City.

Prior to the address, attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about City departments and meet directors during the open house. Additionally, Winners of the '2014 Best Hometown' photo contest will be unveiled and displayed in City Hall.

We hope to see you there!

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Spring/Summer Gateway Coming Soon!

The Gahanna Parks & Recreation Department will release its 2014 Spring/Summer Gateway Program Guide.

Copies of the program guide will be distributed during the week of February 24, 2013 through Gahanna Jefferson Schools. Additionally, copies will be available at Gahanna City Hall, Gahanna Metro Library, Gahanna/John E. Bickley YMCA and various businesses throughout city.

Important reminders:

March 3 -- Program registration begins and season passes will also be available.
March 8 -- Registration for summer camp will take place from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. at City Hall.
Also, pool memberships are NOW available!

For more information, contact the Parks & Recreation office at 614-342-4250.

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"Jump Start" Spring Break with Camp!

March 24 - March 28, 2014

Looking for activities to get your child involved in over Spring Break? Check out our Spring Break Camp hosted by Jump Start Sports.

During the structured camp hours of 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., youth will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of sports including baseball, basketball, lacrosse, flag football, soccer and the ultimate Frisbee in the morning.

In addition to these fun activities, campers will also have a chance to take part in more traditional "camp games" such as capture the flag, dodgeball and kickball.

Optional before (8-9 a.m.) and after camp hours (3-5 p.m.) are available. During these times, youth will participate in additional supervised activities.

To register your child for camp or for more information click here. You may also contact the Parks & Recreation Department at 614.342.4250.