Sidewalks in Cordova Park

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Friday I received a call from Helen Gibson from the City's Neighborhood Services department informing me that the placement of sidewalks on Tronjo Road will be flipped from one side of the road to the other.

I picked up the phone and starting informing some of my constituents of the change, and asking them to spread the word around the neighborhood. On Saturday morning, I received phone calls from two very upset families on Tronjo Road, opposing the switch. I informed both families that I would look into the situation first thing Monday morning. I contacted Ms. Gibson Monday morning. Mr. Ed Spears of Neighborhood Services contacted the two families and met with them. They are okay with the project going forward, although they still have concerns, one of which was the lack of notification about the switch.

I have sent an email to the City Manager, Mr. Coby, requesting that all future sidewalk projects notify impacted neighborhood associations to allow them time to give any input and concerns. It would also be a good idea to have neighborhood meetings to discuss these projects before they get underway.

Many in Cordova Park feel that the sidewalks will help ensure the safety of the children who walk up and down Tronjo.

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Pensacola tennis great Larry Caton passes

Last Wednesday, one of Pensacola's finest-ever tennis players, Mr. Larry Caton, passed. Larry played for Tulane University in the late 1950s and won an NCAA national championship there. He spent most of his tennis life at Bayview Park's tennis facilities, and was a fixture there, offering free lessons always with a smile.

This past Saturday, I attended a memorial service for Larry. The service was attended by over 200 people. Many who attended shared stories, laughs, and tears for one of Pensacola's tennis pioneers.

The City of Pensacola is in discussions about the proper way for Larry to be recognized. One of the things that is being discussed is naming a court after him at either Bayview or Roger Scott.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Pensacola Junior Tennis Association, 4601 Piedmont Rd, Pensacola, FL 32503.

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City pension issues

I have received many calls after I was quoted in Sunday's News Journal concerning pensions.

I am looking into and considering ways that the City can adjust its pension plans to remain sustainable and viable for years to come. As I suggested in the PNJ, I will be exploring the possibility of transitioning to a 401K system for new hires. Other considerations are changing the amortization schedule, so that pension benefits are paid out over a longer term, or changing the actuarial assumption rate, or the percentage of benefits that the City assumes the market will pay.

I welcome all ideas and input. Please pass them on to me by email at ljohnson@ci.pensacola.fl.us.

It is rumored that Council will have a special workshop on pensions some time in April. I would encourage all to attend and voice your opinions on the issue.

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Robert Payne leaving

After 23 years of service, Assistant City Manager Robert Payne is leaving his job with the City.

I heard a rumor over the weekend, and it was confirmed today. Mr. Payne's last today is Friday.

We wish Mr. Payne a very happy retirement and do appreciate his years of service to our City.

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