Gardner Pool finished the 2021 season with 490 family pool memberships purchased, 44 single memberships and 76 senior memberships. Family memberships were up from last year by 202, single memberships were up by 14, and senior memberships were up by 31 from the 2020 season.
The 12th annual Dog Splash was a lot of fun. There were 45 dogs and nine vendors that participated in this 2021 event.
This year’s Scarecrow Row and the Family Fall Festival was held on Sunday, October 14. The weather was beautiful for this great community event.
The Johnny Appleseed Street Tree Project began in 1976 in an effort to support Oakwood’s commitment to urban forestry and the environment. To date, this program has been responsible for planting over 3,100 trees. The highlights of the program include: the cost of the selected species are discounted 50% to Oakwood residents and trees must be planted in the City right-of-way; species of trees will be 1 3/4” in diameter and are excellent for planting; the most needy areas of Oakwood, as determined by the City, will be given first priority; tree species selected are well-suited for planting and most are resistant to disease; and, the trees will be guaranteed for one growing season by the nursery that plants them. Ms. Collins displayed pictures of the different trees offered in 2021.
Ms. Collins reviewed the following upcoming events: Oakwood’s 6th Annual Pro-am Art & Photography Exhibitions on Saturday, November 13 and Sunday, November 14; the Candy Cane Hunt in Shafor Park on Saturday, December 4 from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m.; and Lighting Up Oakwood/Holiday of Lights on Sunday, December 12 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Shafor Park.
Mrs. Hilton asked about the poinsettia sale.
Ms. Collins shared that the Friends of Smith Gardens is currently doing a poinsettia fundraiser. Poinsettias can be ordered through the end of this week. The poinsettias will be delivered all around Oakwood the week of December 6. All the proceeds go directly to the care and maintenance of Smith Gardens.
Mr. Stephens asked about the trees along Shroyer Road.
Ms. Collins said that she is happy with the four variety of trees that were selected for Shroyer Road. The trees have all had growth and have done well.
Mayor Duncan commented that the trees along Shroyer Road improve the streetscape. He then thanked Ms. Collins and the Leisure Services department for their good work.
Ms. Collins shared that she is very fortunate to have a wonderful staff.
AN OAKWOOD MOMENT
Mrs. Hilton recognized the American flags displayed throughout Oakwood.
CITY MANAGER’S COMMENTS
Mr. Klopsch thanked Ms. Collins and the Leisure Services Department for all they do to enhance the Oakwood community ambience. He commented on the beautiful canna lilies along the perimeter of the OCC parking lot, and noted that they were one of his mother’s favorite flowers.
The 35-member citizen Budget Review Committee met last month to discuss projects and the proposed 2022 Budget. The 2022 Budget will be presented at the December 13 council meeting. This will be the fourth year in a row that a balanced budget will be presented.
Leaf collection season is in full swing. Property owners are encouraged to view the bi-weekly yard debris collection map and to place leaves into the roadway gutter a day or two before their scheduled pick-up day. The leaf collection schedule is available on the City website and in the Oakwood Scene newsletter.
The relocation of the recycling facility to the entrance of the Public Works Center is on schedule and will open in late November or early December. The new facility is an improved area for citizens to drop-off of green waste, cardboard, and co-mingled recyclables.
Mr. Klopsch closed his comments by sharing that there was a large turnout of trick-or-treaters in the 200 block of Volusia Avenue last Sunday.