A conversation with Lakeside

Councilor Elaine Armstrong, Councilor Tim Crockett, Mayor Orville Nelson

You couldn’t pry me out of Lakeside with a crowbar.” stated one citizen attending the Townhall meeting held on Saturday at the Lion’s hall in Lakeside.

The Townhall meeting/social gathering was moderated by Councilor, Elaine Armstrong. This launched the Council’s conversation with Lakeside.

For the next six months, the first Saturday of every month, two councilors will make themselves available at Lakeside City Hall, from 10 am to 12 pm.

The input from the people in attendance reflected an overall consensus of optimism and gratitude for the life they have in Lakeside.

There were concerns, several people commented on the lack of law enforcement. Armstrong reported that a committee has been formed to look into possible solutions.

It has been suggested that a five-year bond, ear marked specifically for Lakeside law enforcement could be a solution. A report will be given at the regular council meeting.

A questionnaire was circulated asking for input and a list of what should be considered priorities by Lakeside’s elected officials.

Fire department grants

Fire Chief Ted Ross, talked about the grants that the department has received allowing for more efficiency and safety in the town. The department continues to educate volunteers and attract more volunteers to the program.

Chamber of Commerce ramps up publicity

Jonie Reeder, President of the Chamber of Commerce, talked about advances being made in publicizing Lakeside as a tourist destination.

The Chamber of Commerce, as an introduction to the next left turn into Lakeside, plans a new sign for Highway 101.

Beautification plans

Diane O’Bryan, Chamber board member and President of the Parks Advisory/Community Garden Committee, shared the beautification projects planned for the downtown area.

As a start, the plans for spring and summer this year will dress the downtown with planters full of colorful blooms, and blooming trees, in several locations.

There will be benches (sponsored by individuals or organizations) scattered about the three-block area offering welcoming resting spots.

The Parks Advisory/Community Garden will finish the “funscape” located on city property behind city hall. They will continue to maintain the Garden along with the landscaping at city hall in cooperation with Public Works Director, Dennis Langley.

A question came from a participant on how to contact the different organizations.

♦ Lakeside Women’s Club, President Darline Atkins, 541-759-2356

♦ Chamber of Commerce, President Jonie Reeder, 541-404-8207

♦ Parks Advisory/Community Gardens, Diane O’Bryan, 541-759-2526

♦ Watershed, Coordinator, Mike Mader, 541-759-3011

♦ S.T.E.P (Salmon Trout Enhancement) Jerry Cox, 541-290-8597

♦ Fire Fighters Association, Charles Perry, 541-759-3612

♦ Lakeside Lion’s, Lona Owens, 541-759-3111

♦ Lakeside Community Association, Madeline Gonsolves,

♦ Lakeside Citizen’s Patrol, Josh Cox, lakesidepatrol@yahoo.com>

Councilor Rod Schilling, recommended that everyone interested in street repair and safety, contact their elected officials statewide with letters. He plans to make the contact information available on Lakesideinfo.com.