Madeira News Jan-March 2024

January-March 2024

Great lives MADE here The official newsletter of Madeira Ohio

MEETING SCHEDULE

MAYOR’S MOMENT

By Doug Moormann, Mayor

City Council 2nd and 4th Mondays 7:30PM

Board of Zoning Appeals 1st Monday 7PM

Park & Recreation Board 2nd Wednesday 7PM

Senior Commission 3rd Monday 6PM

Planning Commission 3rd Monday 7PM

Inclusion Committee 3rd Tuesday 7PM

Tree Board Every other 2nd Tuesday 7PM

IN THIS ISSUE Department News........................3 Public Works, Tax and Finance, Police

Community News..........................5 Volunteer boards, events, Madeira Chamber of Commerce, Madeira City Schools, Women’s Club, MIHJFD

Sponsors and Ads...........................11 2023 Event Sponsors, Paid Advertisements

On December 1, I had the honor of being selected as the 41st Mayor of Madeira. I thank the voters and my colleagues on Council for placing their confidence in me.

The City of Madeira is consistently ranked among the top communities in Ohio. We know this ranking stems from our high-quality schools, strong neighborhood feel, high quality of life, and our exceptionally convenient location.

Madeira has momentum. We are in the midst of renovating a re-imagined McDonald Commons Park, the primary park in our community, to serve the next generation of residents.

Miami Avenue is being reconstructed to increase safety, improve the pedestrian experience, and increase the vitality of our neighborhood business district. Preliminary work has begun on a roundabout at Galbraith and Miami to improve safety and traffic flow at this misaligned and dangerous intersection. Our purpose must be to execute well on these projects and lay the foundation for continued success.

That foundation will include attention to the budget and preservation of the city’s AA+ credit rating. Our public safety and services are second to none and I am committed to providing our police, fire fighters and public works with the tools they need to effectively do their jobs and serve our community.

The “what” we will do is important, but equally important is the “how” we do it. When assuming the responsibilities of Mayor, I shared with my colleagues my expectation that our meetings be conducted in a respectful and civil manner. We have a talented, committed team on Council, and I expect nothing less – but I also continue to see other government bodies devolving into gridlock because some people refuse to compromise, pursue a “win-at-cost” agenda and choose chaos over governing.

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My goal is for our “how” to be a good example of governing.

Disagreeing without being disagreeable. We can challenge spending priorities, debate policy, and remain colleagues, neighbors, and friends.

ByWe Michael Norton-Smith, City can and should be anManager example of a civil, functioning government capable of making decisions, meeting timelines, and balancing a budget.

I plan to look back in two years, at the end of my term, and celebrate both our successes and how we achieved them.

So glad you MADE

it here

FROM THE DESK OF THE CITY MANAGER

By Michael Norton-Smith, City Manager

Hopefully everyone enjoyed the holiday season with 2024 off to a great start. Building off Mayor Moormann’s letter, the administration would like to take the opportunity to provide a status report on several key City projects and initiatives. The constant refrain in 2023 was “Pardon our dust” as we reinvest in our community’s infrastructure and amenities, and we hope to carry it through into 2024.

First, we are only a few months away from the “soft opening” of McDonald Commons for spring sports. Prus Construction (hereafter “Prus”) is making phenomenal progress on the fields and facilities at the park, and City staff are working with the athletic leagues to schedule use of the new synthetic turf. While the natural grass turf is installed, Prus recommends that it be allowed to establish before play begins, so it should be ready by the grand reopening on May 10-11, 2024. We hope you will join City Council and the Parks and Recreation Board for a weekend filled with activities highlighting the versatility of the new McDonald Commons. Food trucks, fireworks, live music, games, classes- there will be something for everyone. Watch for Grand Re-Opening announcements on the City’s Facebook and Twitter accounts – full details on the event will be announced soon.

Also significant, Phase 1 of the Miami Avenue Reconstruction Project is fully underway, with the City’s contractor, Ford Development Corporation (hereafter “Ford”) working diligently to install an underground duct bank. Phase 1 primarily focuses on the underground utilities in preparation for new street and sidewalk infrastructure. The duct bank will eventually allow for the burying of overhead utility lines. Ford is working from the Camargo Road intersection and heading north towards Euclid; trying whenever possible to maintain at least one (1) travel lane in each direction. Once the work on the duct bank is complete, Ford will start again at Camargo and work northward again installing a new 16” water main. The target for completion of Phase 1 is mid-2024.

Next, the City recently completed the installation of a new pocket park space at the corner of Euclid Avenue and Camargo Road. While the size of the project pales in comparison to Miami Avenue or McDonald Commons, the pocket park represents the first completed City Council priority of the 2023 Comprehensive Plan, which was adopted in August of last year. The pocket park features native plantings and a pervious walkway, both of which align with the Environmental Stewardship goal of the Comprehensive Plan. Visit the City’s website (www.madeiracity.com/business/comprehensive_plan.php) for more information on the other three (3) goal areas- Economic Development, Active Transportation, and Community Facilities.

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Finally, in terms of upcoming projects, City staff anticipate that construction will begin in earnest on the Miami Avenue and Galbraith Road roundabout in early 2024; you may have noticed work to relocate the existing utility poles further from the roadway in anticipation of construction. Likewise, City staff also anticipate the first phase of Camargo Road, from Miami Avenue to Euclid Avenue, will begin sometime in 2024. Both of these projects received significant outside funding from organizations like the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and SORTA. As with any project, City staff will communicate any traffic changes and/or closures through the City’s Facebook page.

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT The leaf program ended on December 15th. The Service Department made a “last pass” through the entire city between December 18-20 to ensure all piles were picked up. Total count for 2023 was 205 loads.

Since 2020, the total loads have been between 200-206.

The Service Department is getting ready for the annual “catch basin cleaning program.” They drive the entire city and suck out all the leaves inside the catch basins to ensure there are no backups onto the street. This job will be done over the next few months weather permitting.

During leaf collection, the Service Department noticed street signs down/faded throughout the city. Work has started on replacing the signs as needed.

Now that leaf collection is completed, the Service Department has put its focus on getting the trucks ready for winter. This includes oil changes, hooking up salt spreaders/plows and making sure they work properly, greasing trucks and general maintenance. It was discovered one of the trucks had a broken leaf spring and it is scheduled to be fixed the first week of January.

TAX AND FINANCE Starting in February, you can file your 2023 Madeira taxes online at: www.madeiracity.com. Click on “Tax Filing” and follow the instructions on the screen. Each year you will create a new PIN. After you complete your filing, MAIL the signed copy of your return ALONG WITH YOUR W-2s, federal schedules included in your reported income (if applicable), and your payment made payable to: City of Madeira Tax Office. You also have the option of UPLOADING your documents and paying online. Taxes are due April 15, 2024.

YOUR FILING IS NOT COMPLETE UNTIL WE RECEIVE ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION. The City of Madeira tax rate remains at 1% for 2024 and the credit for tax paid to other municipalities is .6% of the wages taxed.

Estimated Payments: If your tax liability exceeds $200, you are required to make quarterly estimated payments. Your 1st quarterly estimate is due April 15th.

Let Us Help You: We offer taxpayer assistance with your local income tax filing free of charge by APPOINTMENT only. Please email Tax@madeiracity.com if you would like to schedule an appointment.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, YOU CAN CONTACT US AT (513) 272-4212 OR BY EMAIL AT TAX@MADEIRACITY.COM.

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POLICE DEPARTMENT The Madeira Police Department has recently installed a modern safety camera system created by Flock Safety, a reputable public safety technology company. These advanced cameras have provided an efficient means for communities and law enforcement agencies to work together in fighting crime.

The Flock Safety cameras capture vehicle information and instantly send an alert to law enforcement whenever a stolen car or a known wanted suspect from a state or national crime database is detected.

Additionally, they send alerts if a vehicle associated with a missing person in an AMBER or Silver Alert is detected. It is important to note that these cameras are solely intended to track vehicle information related to criminal activities and missing persons.

A total of 20 Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) cameras are being strategically installed at major intersections and thoroughfares throughout the city. The data collected by these cameras is strictly used by law enforcement and is never sold or shared with third parties. These safety cameras have been widely used in thousands of towns and cities nationwide, establishing successful partnerships with over 2,000 police departments. They have demonstrated remarkable results in reducing crime rates in municipalities where they are used.

Police Chief Dave Schaefer emphasizes that Flock's capabilities augment our officers’ ability to keep Madeira safe. By capturing images of entire vehicles and not just license plates, Flock provides an added layer of security for our community. Additionally, Flock's ability to alert us to stolen vehicles or license plates, as well as Amber and Silver Alerts, is a testament to our officers ' ability to utilize this technology in protecting life and property. It's important to note that the cameras are not intended for enforcing parking tickets or traffic infractions, nor are they designed to monitor people. This ensures that the cameras are being used in a fair and responsible manner, which helps to build trust between the community and those responsible for public safety. As we work together to create a safer Madeira, we can all take comfort in the knowledge our dedicated officers are using this modern safety technology to its fullest potential. Chief Schaefer encourages the community to learn more about Flock Safety cameras at www.flocksafety.com.

Flock Safety Camera Quick Facts: What's Detected? License Plates, Vehicle Images What's Not Detected? Facial recognition, People, Gender, Race, Traffic / Vehicle Speed Acceptable Use Policy: Data is used for law enforcement purposes only and is never sold to 3rd parties.

Prohibited Uses: Personal use, immigration enforcement, speed/traffic light/stop sign enforcement, harassment or intimidation, usage based solely on a protected class (i.e., race, sex, religion).

Access Policy: All system access requires a valid reason and is stored indefinitely.

Hotlist Policy: Hotlist hits are required to be human-verified prior to action.

Data retention: 30 days Number of Madeira-owned cameras: 20 Page 4 of 12

MADEIRA INDIAN HILL JOINT FIRE DISTRICT In November, the JFD placed a new fire engine into service. The 2023 E-One Cyclone engine features a large tank, lots of hose and puts it in a short wheelbase truck with a powerful 500 hp engine. The engine went into service at the Indian Hill Station. Up to November, the Madeira Station has utilized a 2008 Pierce Quint which features a 75’ aerial with a pre-piper waterway. That truck will now be placed into reserve and was replaced with the 2016 Pierce Enforcer Rescue Engine. The rescue engine has all the capabilities of an engine but also features most of our rescue tools. The rescue tools include battery operated hydraulic tools, stabilization equipment, rope rescue equipment and a large cache of other specialized rescue equipment. The two-engine deployment for the JFD is a big change by putting the ladder truck as our reserve piece. However, the ladder trucks surround the JFD and are automatically called for structure fires in Madeira and Indian Hill. Sycamore Twp, Milford, Loveland-Symmes, Mariemont, Montgomery, Miami Twp and Blue Ash all have 100’ aerial apparatus. Our typical structure fire response includes four engines, two ladder trucks, and two medic units. The dual engine response will be studied in the next year to validate plans to replace the ladder truck in 2028. As always, citizens and visitors are welcome to stop in to the fire stations to see our firefighters and apparatus.

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Winter Wonderland: Madeira Senior Commission’s First Snow Ball

By Emily McNamara, Community Coordinator

The Madeira Senior Commission has been working very hard to put together a new event for Madeira residents and friends over the age of 55!

The Snow Ball will include live music from Floyd and the Walkmen, appetizers, desserts, $1 beer and wine tickets, and more!

This will be the first of several new Senior Commission programs and events this year, so be sure to follow City of Madeira, Ohio on Facebook, and keep an eye out for our 2024 event mailers.

January-March 2024 Events: Snow Ball- 1/12 What’s App w/ Madeira HS- 3/6 Matter of Balance - 3/13-5/1 Call 513-561-7228 to sign up!

Thank you to: 2024 Senior Commission Sponsors

2024 Snow Ball Sponsors

-Parks and Recreation Board-

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The Comeback Celebration: McDonald Commons Grand Opening

By Lindsay Grome, Madeira Parks and Recreation Board

The wait is almost over! We too are anxious to begin use of our wonderfully renovated McDonald Commons. While many of the park's amenities will be available beginning in early spring, the City and Parks and Recreation Board of Madeira have plans to celebrate big May 10-11, 2024!

Madeira Olympics and Social Friday, May 10 5-10 PM On Friday, we kick off the weekend with the warm welcome back of the Madeira Olympics! Grab at least nine of your closest family, friends and neighbors and participate as a team in the Madeira Olympics! From 5-7:30 PM This multi-generational event will feature many fun team and individual "sporting events." All residents are invited to register or simply watch this just-for-fun, non-competitive evening. The Boosters will be on site selling refreshments, and beer will also be available. After the Olympics, from 7-10 PM, stay to watch and dance to Moving in Stereo.

If you're interested in registering as a team – or individual -- to compete in the Madeira Olympics, please check the RecDesk link here https://madeiraoh.recdesk.com/Community/Program

Memories MADE here

May 10-11, 2024

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Blast from Madeira’s Past! Join Us for Madeira Stories Live

By Tom Kent, Madeira Inclusion Committee

Madeira Stories Live was introduced to Madeira in 2023 with a total of eight local residents telling unique stories about family and traditions. In May 2023, we heard fascinating stories from Madeira residents who had either emigrated to America themselves, or were children of immigrants. Just this past November, we had four storytellers who each had a special story about their own family traditions.

Ivory Lukens told of how she had weaved together different traditions handed down from her ancestors for her daughter. These traditions included a traditional Puerto Rican drink made from coconut milk for Christmas Eve, Coquito- “better than eggnog” she said.

Jonna Morales-Thompson told of a tradition passed down from her Finnish mother for New Year’s Eve called uudenvuodentina, or “Tin-casting”. This was a custom that forecast “good fortune” for the new year, or as Jonna said, “What good fortune can you bring to your family this coming year”.

Katie Rowe told about annual family get-togethers at her Grandfather’s A-Frame on Rocky Fork Lake. “We belonged to each other” she reminisced about her family gatherings.

Jim Schwaller choose to talk about blending traditions with his wife’s Chinese family, and learning how Turkey and Egg Rolls naturally belong on the table at Thanksgiving.

In 2024, Madeira will sponsor four “Madeira Stories Live” events, and the first will be on March 20th, 7:00 p.m. at Traditions on Camargo. On this evening, four local residents will tell stories that come from Madeira’s past. Be sure to join us that night for our “Blast from Madeira’s Past” storytelling event.

ive ies L Stor eira Mad

An evening of storytelling with neighbors and friends

March 20, 2024 at 7PM This month’s topic is Stories from Old Madeira Light refreshments will be provided

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MADEIRA CITY SCHOOLS It's time to start thinking about Kindergarten registration for the Madeira City Schools 2024-2025 school year. To be eligible for enrollment, you must reside within the school district boundaries and demonstrate proof of residence as outlined in the online registration process. In order to register for kindergarten, your child must be five years old on or before September 30, 2024. Parents will be using our online registration process to register their students for the 20242025 school year. The first step in the registration process is to complete a pre-registration survey indicating your preferences. This survey information helps Madeira Elementary School begin planning for the upcoming school year. This link and all other information you need to know can be found at www.madeiracityschools.org/Madeira Elementary School/2024-2025 Kindergarten Registration.

MADEIRA WOMENS CLUB Who are we?

GFWC Ohio, Madeira Women’s Club (you do not have to live in Madeira to be a member) All ages welcome! See the pictures for some of our projects.

JOIN US 3rd Thursday of the month 1PM. We do have some evening meetings.

Please see our schedule on our webpage.

September - June Traditions at Camargo Senior Center 7650 Camargo Rd. For more information: www.facebook.com/madeirawomansclub Madeira Women’s Club (smadams45.wixsite.com)

Christmas Stockings for Joseph House

Making bird food pinecones at Light Up Madeira

Gifts for Women helping Women

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Time Timer Ali’s Bar and Grill Garage Massage Redden Fine Meats We Go Unlimited

The Co-Op Romauldo

Assembly Hair & Beauty Ferrari’s Little Italy and Bakery

Cincy Dance Studio

J Bird’s Bird Breads

Adler’s Blinds

The Pink Box Pro Martial Arts

The Bookshelf

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ADVERTISMENTS The following advertisements are paid for by the business and individuals. The City of Madeira has no affiliation with these advertisers and, as such, makes or endorsement of any product, service, or information provided by them.

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Contact Us City of Madeira 7141 Miami Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45243 Hours: Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM

Great lives MADE here The official newsletter of Madeira Ohio

www.madeiracity.com

Administration

513-561-7228

Building Dept.

513-561-7228

City Council

513-561-7228

Finance Dept.

513-272-4212

Fire Dept.

513-271-2669

Police Dept.

513-272-4214

Parks & Rec

513-561-7228

Public Works

513-792-9143

Tax Dept.

513-272-4212

City of Madeira, Ohio

City Manager

@MadeiraOhio

Michael Norton-Smith mnorton-smith@madeiracity.com

www.madeiracity.com

Event

Date

Time

Location

Senior Comission Snow Ball

January 12

4PM-7PM

Traditions at Camargo

Madeira Chamber of Commerce Meeting

2nd Wednesday of every month

Check Chamber Website

Municipal Building

Senior Commission What’s App w/ Madeira High School

March 6

12:30PM

Madeira High School

Senior Commission Matter of Balance

March 13-May 1

1PM-3PM

Traditions at Camargo

Madeira Stories Live

March 20

7PM

Traditions at Camargo

Egg Scramble

March 30

Check City Website

Madeira High School