June, 2010 City Council Message
By: Gerri Harbison, Contact this Councilmember
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“Summer Breeze, makes me feel fine!” So go the lyrics of one of my favorite summer songs. It is wonderful to feel the warm summer breezes, view the beautiful flowers and fountains, the long days of sunshine and to enjoy our beautiful city and all it has to offer during the summertime. We occasionally get questions about why we choose to spend city dollars – your money - for parks, flowers, festivals, and the pool. Three words: Quality of Life!
Can you imagine “your” Montgomery without your favorite summer event or community pool or without the beautiful medians filled with flowers – or whatever special amenity makes you proud to call Montgomery home? I sure can’t! As we prepare our budget and Five Year Capital Improvement Plan, City Council and Staff review revenues and expenses and make the decision based on our Strategic Plan where to put your money for what is best to continually improve our city and keep it the premier community we have all come to know and love.
Even though we are seeing slight signs of improvement in the overall national economy, perhaps this is the year your family decides to stay home and create your very own Montgomery “stay-cation”! There is so much to do here and a variety of programs to suit all ages and tastes. Of course, there are lots of programs for kids that are available for a nominal cost, but there is lots to do here without spending a dime.
Interested in history? Plan a self-guided walking tour of our Heritage District and Pioneer Cemetery. Love nature? Spend an afternoon at Johnson Nature Preserve. The Preserve has very few man-made amenities and focuses on the scenic and natural aspects of our area. Plan a picnic lunch in one of our many parks and go fishin’ in Swaim or Pioneer Park – or plan a picnic dinner at Weller Park and stay for Outdoor Movie Night! Plan your weekend around Bastille Day or our many July 4 events starting with the July 3 Blue Ash Montgomery Concert and ending on July 5th with the Parade and Festival in Montgomery Park.
And what would summer be without hanging out at our sparkling and refreshing Montgomery Community Pool! Join today and take advantage of our referral program for an even bigger savings. Your entire family can join for under $200! Enjoy the Makos Swim Team, take swimming lessons, or just hang out, catch some sun and relax and take a snooze as you read that novel.
With all the money you save by staying in town this year, you could enjoy a meal or two at one of our fabulous Montgomery restaurants. I am all about not cooking on vacation – and why should a “stay-cation” be any different? Whether looking for breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can find any type of cuisine you desire in all price ranges. Indian, Chinese, Italian, Greek – or just plain old USA, it is here for your dining pleasure. And I know the local businesses would love to see you!
Maybe you have already planned a vacation elsewhere, but there is still so much to take advantage of in your recreation time. I hope to see you throughout the summer as I enjoy all that Montgomery has to see and do! Enjoy!