Cedar Rapids Residents Speak Their Minds
By Dave Franzman, Reporter
By
Becky Ogann
Story Created:
Jan 23, 2007
Story Updated:
Jan 24, 2007
CEDAR RAPIDS - Cedar Rapids city residents turned out to share ideas with city leaders on Tuesday.
If you had something to say to the mayor or Cedar Rapids' new city manager, you could just walk right up, introduce yourself and speak.
The first of three "Blueprint for the Future" open houses events drew a good crowd.
“This is the first time we've had a forum where you had unlimited access to city government, every department is represented here,” said John Helbling, Blueprint Task Force.
City leaders expected questions about recent controversial decisions like eliminating police helicopters or ending curbside leaf pickup.
“I talked to a man from the Parks Department about Green Square Meals, I thought that was a very worthwhile discussion,” said Susan Nachazel, an open house participant.
For some who turned out for this first blueprint meeting, the opportunity was there to gripe about something they didn't like, but the city also wanted some ideas and suggestions, and they weren't disappointed.
Nearly 100 participants filled out comment cards in just the first hour, and many comments came from people who don't regularly attend city council meetings.
“I have some concern that the nay-sayers receive a lot of attention and those who believe in possibilities are not heard, so this is my chance to be heard,” said Sue Olson, who participated in the open house.
Organizers hoped an informal atmosphere would make participants comfortable and a comfortable crowd may be more willing to share ideas.
City leaders say 265 people turned out on Tuesday for the first of three open house events.
Participants who have something to say will get two more chances on Thursday and Saturday.
There are two more open houses this week:
Thursday Jan. 25 5-8 p.m.
Washington High School
Saturday Jan. 27 10 a.m.-1p.m.
Jefferson High School
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