The Municipal - March 2023

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17 Fleet Service & Management

48 Parks & Environmental Services: East Lansing residents ‘Round Up’ for parks and recreation scholarships

50 Building & Construction: Urban renewal emphasis changes the landscape of downtown Twin Falls

54 Streets, Highways & Bridges: TravelSafely app launched in Charlotte to improve traffic safety

58 Technology: Calling on the sun to improve trail safety

60 Municipal Management: Not a handout, but a hand up for small business owners

FLEET SERVICE & MANAGEMENT ON

Is your fleet right-sized? The right software can guide municipalities in achieving this, catching surplus vehicles or determining where more might be needed. Agile Fleet’s FleetCommander has been doing just that and saving fleets thousands of dollars. Learn more about this effective fleet management technology on page 10.

Departments

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editor SARAH WRIGHT swright@the-papers.com publication manager CHRIS SMITH chris@themunicipal.com

senior

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graphic designer MARY LESTER mlester@the-papers.com

business manager ANNETTE WEAVER aweaver@the-papers.com

director of marketing STEVE MEADOWS smeadows@the-papers.com

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Meet our writers

Fort Wayne-based writer Lauren Caggiano is a 2007 graduate of the University of Dayton. Caggiano holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and French. Caggiano has worked in journalism, public relations and marketing over her 15-year career. She writes for several local, regional and national publications — and the list is growing. Speaking of growth, Caggiano enjoys the challenges that come from researching and bringing stories to life across a variety of platforms. On a personal note, Caggiano is a recent breast cancer survivor and enjoys fitness, thrift shopping and volunteering in her free time. Learn more at lovewriteon.com.

Lauren Caggiano

Supply chain problems expected to linger

Sarah Wright | Editor

Idon’t envy fleet managers. It’s tough enough to keep up with one vehicle even in the best of times, let alone an entire fleet of them, especially in the current climate. And to top things off, supply chain problems do not appear to be lessening, though the affected items seem to fluctuate any given week or month. Most economic pieces predict years more in recovery time.

“The issues of supply will continue as companies sort through the issues with Covid, war-torn Ukraine, and food insecurity in Africa,” writes Lora Cecere in a Dec. 26, 2022, article on Forbes, titled “Keep Your Seatbelts Buckled. Don’t Expect a Return to Supply Chain Normalcy in 2023.”

Meanwhile, CNBC surveyed logistics managers at major companies and trade groups and found that half didn’t expect the supply chain to return to normal until 2024 or after.

Its article, “Most supply chain managers expect problems to continue at least through 2024,” published in December 2022, notes, “Among the biggest challenges cited by logistics managers noted in the survey were the lack of availability of raw materials, port congestion, a lack of skilled workers and dwindling warehouse space because of soaring inventories. Also cited were terminal rules on picking up and dropping off containers, late container fees (Detention and Demurrage), and canceled sailings.”

The impact ripples throughout this issue of The Municipal. Writer Denise Fedorow reached out to different fleet managers across the country to ask how inflation was affecting their fleets’ operations. The frustration is palatable as orders for new vehicles are canceled or ordering windows tighten. It has led fleet managers to adopt new purchasing strategies. Meanwhile, others are opting to make lemonade out of lemons by considering a provision of the Inflation Reduction Act to ramp up their purchase of electric vehicles.

The supply crisis is broached in our other fleet service articles, further underlining its massive reach. But we have plenty of positives in the fleet sector to share.

One of my favorites is the trend of fleets enlisting the public to name snowplows and other pieces of equipment. Talk about a feelgood news story, and the names are hilarious. Kevin Kilbane reached out to several cities that have held such contests. The positive community reaction is great to see.

Writer Julie Young also looked at the trend of police departments welcoming e-bikes into their fleets; the Santa Barbara, Calif., Police Department is finding more benefits than drawbacks. Also, in California, Writer Beth Anne Brink-Cox checks in with Riverside, which was awarded the No. 1 green fleet award by NAFA. Finally, Lauren Caggiano shares the West Virginia Department of Transportation’s efforts to give rural residents the lifts they need to reach vital appointments.

I often say that public works folks are some of the most creative problem-solvers I’ve ever met, but fleet folks are definitely up there, too. How they are facing these unprecedented challenges is all the proof needed.

Stronger than ever:

Collectively, municipal fleets of all sizes have millions of dollars’ worth of under-utilized vehicles sitting in parking lots at a time when the resale value of used vehicles is at an all-time high. The COVID-19 pandemic was a once-in-ageneration disruptive force that compelled organizations (private and public alike) to reimagine the ways they could accomplish their work outside of the office. Almost three years on, few would argue that for many, our hybrid work arrangements are here to stay. According to Cisco’s “Hybrid Work in Government Survey Report,” 92% of government workers surveyed now work remotely at least one day per week. In addition to realizing significant improvements in workers’ job satisfaction, organizations have found comparable or improved worker productivity and savings on office and resource overhead, as fewer workers in the office provide opportunities to reduce facility footprints and operating expenses.

case for vehicle sharing

With the widespread use of videoconferencing and the adoption of shared office or hotel workspaces, the workplace has clearly changed. There are indicators, however, that organizations’ vehicle fleets have been slower to adapt. Vehicles assigned to individuals or departments remain assigned to these groups, whose work is now, in whole or in part, accomplished remotely. Even among shared vehicles, utilization data may point to significantly decreased demand, but capacity remains unchanged.

Agile Fleet President Ed Smith explained just one example of how the adoption of tools such as Zoom calls for other virtual meeting tools has reduced the utilization of vehicles without the organization taking advantage of the opportunity to save. Smith said, “I recently had my gas hot water replaced by a plumber. At the conclusion of the installation, I was told the county inspector will reach out to me. Days later, the county inspector called on the phone and he did my gas hot water installation inspection via FaceTime on my iPhone. As I am very interested in

ABOVE PHOTOS: Fully integrated, secure kiosks and keyboxes provide drivers 24/7 access to keys and vehicles with full audit trails and accountability. (Photo provided)

fleet optimization, I asked if he still had an assigned vehicle for doing inspections, and he replied that he still had a vehicle, even though nearly all his inspections are now done virtually.”

Imagine this type of waste occurring across all inspectors, social service workers, administrative teams and more. The cost of the lack of fleet changes is astounding.

There have always been savings to be realized by understanding utilization data and right-sizing fleets. The difference now, however, is that our reduced office footprints due

Why there’s never been a better time to make the

GRAPH LEFT: Charting aggregate data across all Agile Fleet customers shows decreased vehicle demand during the height of the pandemic in 2020 and modest recovery in 2021 and 2022. Fewer workers in the office and tasks now performed remotely provide opportunities to right-size vehicle fleets. (Photo provided)

to changes in how jobs are performed provide a reference point and model for success. Picture your office in 2019. How is it different from how it looks today? Maybe you’ve given up leased space or perhaps every department meeting now includes attendees both in person and at home. The evidence of the seismic shift in our work is right in front of us. Our fleets, like our offices, must adjust to our new normal and technology will help us get there.

Effective fleet management technology, like Agile Fleet’s FleetCommander, makes it easy to increase utilization of the fleet and clearly identify the quantity and class of vehicles that can be sold at today’s record high values without impacting any drivers. FleetCommander is easy to implement for the organization and easy-to-use by drivers to gain access to vehicles 24/7. Best of all, your organization will have the data to provide data insights to help you make strategic decisions regarding the composition and scale of your fleet. Here’s how:

Automated vehicle sharing and key dispatch

Our transition to remote work could not have succeeded without technology. Web conferencing is now part of our daily routine, as relevant and ubiquitous as email. In vehicle sharing, technology is an equally important enabler to the success of your motor pool program. Using Agile Fleet’s FleetCommander, your driver community will have convenient, 24/7 online access to make vehicle reservations. The reservation process is faster than booking a hotel reservation.

While the FleetCommander reservation process is seamless to your driver community, the platform provides smarts “under the hood” to ensure that your organization operates smoothly and efficiently, and in compliance with policy and risk management best practices. Best of all, rather than staffing a team to handle the minutiae, like establishing access accounts and verifying driver credentials, these processes can be partly or fully automated, according to your organization’s preferences. Additionally, the mechanics of tasks like balancing use among vehicles in your fleet, assigning the correct vehicles to the right kind of task and ensuring that only drivers with appropriate credentials access specialty vehicles can all be handled using FleetCommander’s built-in tools.

For drivers who require vehicles on demand, FleetCommander provides Grab & Go access to keys via a fully integrated kiosk system tied to secure key boxes. Users with valid organizational credentials or badges can easily access keys 24/7 via indoor or outdoor enclosures. Whether accessing keys and vehicles via reservation in advance or on-demand at a self-service kiosk, a complete audit trail is maintained, providing full accountability and peace of mind.

Data and analytics

It’s often said that good data drives good decisions. Both before and since the pandemic, fleet managers could look over their parking lots and appreciate that some portion of their fleet goes underutilized. Moving this observation from a hunch to an actionable insight, however, relies on a firm grounding in data. Using FleetCommander’s built-in analytics and reporting will allow you to quantify and understand your vehicle usage over time and in detail. By appreciating seasonal demand patterns, use among different types of vehicles in your fleet, the nature and length of trips, etc., you can start to develop a picture of whether you might have too many or too few vehicles, whether you need more vehicles of a particular type, where vehicles should be located and so on.

Savings

In working with customers over the last 22 years, data provided by FleetCommander has revealed that some fleets have carried as many as 80% more vehicles than required by their organization’s demand. One city fleet in Connecticut, for example, moved to the vehicle sharing model for vehicle access and reduced the size of their fleet from 80 vehicles to 16 vehicles due to the efficiencies. The five-year savings realized from selling the unused vehicles was nearly $2,000,000, and every driver still had easy access to vehicles 100% of the time. These savings were realized when full contingents of employees were in the office, pre-COVID!

If you suspect that your assigned or shared vehicle fleet doesn’t reflect the new reality in your workplace, now is a great time to make your case. Agile Fleet has helped hundreds of federal, state, county and municipal governments across the U.S. and Canada to automate their vehicle sharing and key dispatch processes and take intelligent steps toward a right-sized fleet. We’d be happy to help you learn how your organization can realize massive savings.

To learn more about FleetCommander technology, to view municipal government success stories or to access tools like our 10-Year Fleet Savings Calculator, visit www.agilefleet.com.

GRAPH ABOVE: Vehicle utilization data reveals gaps between capacity and demand, offering opportunities to right-size vehicle fleets, resulting in huge savings. (Photo provided)

Plimoth Patuxet Museums, Plymouth, Mass.

By RAY BALOGH | The Municipal

Henry Hornblower II (1917-1985) was made for just this.

The Harvard-graduated investment banker, stockbroker, history buff and archaeologist fulfilled his lifelong dream by spearheading the creation of a popular living history museum complex near Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts.

The Plimoth Patuxet village replicates community life in the 1600s among the Pilgrims and local Native American tribes shortly after the Mayflower landed.

Hornblower started the museum in 1947 with two English cottages and a fort on the waterfront. Since then the campus has expanded to 130 acres with a series of accretions that have added significantly to the recreated ambiance of life 400 years ago.

Several attractions were added after Hornblower’s death, but his passion for historical accuracy is evident in every building, along the dirt streets and in the gardens and livestock pens meticulously cared for by the nonprofit administrator of the complex.

Among the additions:

• Mayflower II, 1957

• English village, 1959

• Wampanoag homesite, 1973

• Hornblower Visitor Center, 1987

• Craft Center, 1992

• Maxwell and Nye barns, 1994

• Plimoth Grist Mill, 2013

Scores of reenactors, known as public history performers, inhabit the campus, dressed in period regalia and performing semi-scripted, semi-improvised interactive theater with guests. The trained reenactors portray actual residents of the 1620s Plymouth colony, insofar as thorough historical research first- and second-hand accounts, articles, paintings and artifacts has provided a window into their character, occupation and personality.

Villagers can be seen up close and personal, performing the daily tasks of pioneer life, including gardening, caring for livestock, dressmaking, cooking, militia muster drills led by Captain Miles Standish, blacksmithing, leather crafting, religious activities, storytelling and family playtime as a respite from the day-to-day chores.

For most of the season, which runs from early April through November, the village represents life in 1627, but during November, the ambiance harkens to 1621, the year of the first known harvest feast, now referred to as “the first Thanksgiving.”

All photos courtesy of Plimoth Patuxet Museums.

ABOVE PHOTO: A Pilgrim couple takes a leisurely sunlit stroll along one of the dirt roads of the Plimoth Patuxet Museums campus.

LEFT: Plimoth Patuxet Museums prides itself on the educational aspects of its living history exhibits. Here a period reenactor introduces a young family to a tome several times older than their combined ages.

According to its website, plimoth.org, Plimoth Patuxet, formerly the Plimoth Plantation, defines itself by half a dozen core principles:

• People. “People are the key to Plimoth Patuxet’s success. We depend on our employees, volunteer and trustees who contribute their skills, enthusiasm, knowledge and the gift of their time; and most of all we depend on our guests, donors and members, whose interests, goodwill and generosity support our education mission.”

• Learning. “We provide powerful experiences to all who join us in an exploration of the past by using engaging ‘living history’ techniques, proven teaching methods, traditional storytelling and cutting-edge technology.”

• Integrity. “An honest and balanced presentation of history is of the greatest importance to us. We seek thoroughness in our research, accuracy in our exhibits and passion in our interpretation.”

• Preservation. “We commit ourselves to the revitalization of pre-industrial crafts, trades, domestic skills, husbandry, horticulture and the maritime arts.”

• Professionalism. “We approach our work with earnestness, vigor and the express purpose of providing enriching experiences for our guests. In order to communicate effectively with the public and each other, we act with the highest standards of respect and courtesy.”

• Community. “We value the satisfaction and fun that comes from working together toward a common goal. We embrace and nurture diversity because it enriches us all.”

Although much of the development of Plimoth Patuxet Museums occurred after Hornblower’s demise, his aura is indelibly stamped on a sprawling estate situated on the grounds.

According to The Cultural Landscape Foundation, tclf.org: “Sited within the landscape is a grand Edwardian-style house built in 1878. Purchased by Henry and Hattie Hornblower at the turn of the century, in 1919 they hired the Olmsted Brothers firm to create the gardens for their Country Place Era estate, which the family dubbed ‘Eel River Farm.’”

This is the homestead where Henry II grew up and never lost his love for. Though the estate has not been scrupulously preserved, it still serves as a historically intriguing anchor to the living history offerings available throughout the campus.

“Although overgrown, significant features of the Olmsted Brothers landscape remain, including road alignments, specimen plantings, naturalistic features such as stone walls and a teahouse.

“As much of the land is on a steep bank overlooking the river, the firm also regraded and terraced the land. In 1927 Ralph Hornblower, son of Henry and Hattie, built a cottage on a hill (‘Eel Hill’) just north of the main house, and hired landscape architect Mary Cunningham to plan

the landscape. She designed an Italianate garden featuring perennial beds, a bowling green, a pool and an amphitheater just west of the house.

“Known as the ‘Hornblower Garden,’ today it is a prominent feature of the Plimoth Patuxet campus, and holds significance as one of few extant examples of Cunningham’s work.”

The Plimoth Patuxet Museums campus is located at 137 Warren Ave., Plymouth, Mass., and the campus will reopen for the 2023 season on Saturday, April 1.

For more information, call (508) 746-1622 or visit plimoth.org.

Two village women walk along a path carved into the beautifully diverse landscape of the Plimoth Patuxet campus.

Guests children and adults alike are invited to indulge in the games families played 400 years ago.

One of the attraction’s public history performers works on the wooden fence behind one of the settlers’ homes on campus.

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13,000

The number of votes in nine days that Venture Richmond and the city of Richmond, Va., received in their mini street sweeper naming contest.

$700,000

New Bedford, Mass., had to increase the fuel budget by about $700,000, due in part to its switch from having two police officers per vehicle to one officer per vehicle because of the pandemic.

No. 1

Focus on:

FLEET SERVICE & MANAGEMENT

$25,000

Police

donated $25,000 so the Santa Barbara, Calif., Police Department could add five more e-bikes to its fleet.

10-80-10

The 10-80-10 Principle is a framework that helps individuals and teams improve performance.

The principal is trademarked by Sunjay Nath, who will help fleet managers re-approach job performance in a way that “makes the impossible possible” at the NAFA 2023 Institute and Expo April 17-19 in Baltimore, Md.

For more information about the conference, visit https://www.nafainstitute.org/.

6 million

The number of rides funded by the Formula Grants for Rural Areas program in West Virginia.

1

Number of communities in the U.S. named St. Patrick. There are 16 Patricks, 16 Dublins, six shamrocks and other cities and towns with names adjacent to the holiday, but only the town of St. Patrick, Mo., claims that particular name. Only two entities, Suffolk County, Mass., and Savannah, Ga., have made St. Patrick’s Day a legal holiday.

Source: https://www.ncsl.org/bookstore/state-legislatures-magazine/my-district-has-theworld-s-only-town-named-st-patrick-magazine2021.aspx#:~:text=It%27s%20a%20tiny%20 unincorporated%20community,of%20the%20Shrine%20of%20St.

Learn how West Virginia is using this program to get residents in rural areas to doctor appointments and more on page 30.

The Santa Barbara

Foundation

Discover the benefits Santa Barbara police officers are uncovering with e-bikes on page 26.

NAFA named Riverside, Calif.’s, fleet the greenest in 2022.

Find out how Riverside earned the title on page 34.

Read how city fleets are engaging residents by encouraging them to name fleet equipment on page 22.

Learn how city fleet managers are navigating inflation and longer order times on page 18.

Inflation hitting fleets hard

For municipal fleets — as for many of us — the current state of affairs of higher fuel costs, supply chain issues and now inflation has been a triple whammy, causing those responsible for managing fleets to look at things differently.

By DENISE FEDOROW | The Municipal

Mike Gagne, chief financial officer for the city of New Bedford, Mass., said inflation has “undoubtedly affected fleets in so many different ways starting with the cost of gasoline or diesel fuel for bigger pieces of apparatus.”

New Bedford is a community of 100,000, so it has a “significant amount of equipment.” Gagne said the city had to increase the fuel budget by about $700,000, due in part to its switch from having two police officers per vehicle to one officer per vehicle because of the pandemic.

Inflation has increased the cost of fleet repair items like oils, filters, hydraulic hoses and tires, too.

“The cost of tires has risen astronomically it’s hit very hard,” he said.

Gagne reported the city council recently gave the fleet authorization to preorder equipment in order to lock in today’s prices before they increase. Since the city is ordering a few pieces of major apparatus at once, it can negotiate with fire apparatus manufacturers. The time between ordering and taking delivery has been extended to two to three years.

Because the city budgeted to purchase two to three fire pumper trucks in its capital plan in two to three years, Gagne said its fleet got approval to place the order at the end of last year to lock in 2022 prices for trucks it expected to receive in 2026. According to Gagne, the last time he ordered ambulances, it took two years to get them.

“We do 16,000 runs of EMS services a year with seven ambulances on the road 24/7, so with that many runs, you can’t expect more than a maximum of four years of life out of the units,” he said.

The city had to buy two ambulances from a dealer that didn’t quite meet its specifications and then had to make the adaptations needed. Gagne spoke to the EMS director about getting him mileage on the rest of the ambulances because it may be five years before their delivery, depending on when they’re ordered.

“That’s why we have to think differently. Our capital plans need to factor in that we’re now out 24 months or more,” he said. “If you’re going to order in fiscal year 2026 (for example), it makes sense, knowing what I know, to lock in at the current price.”

He said with that approval from the council, the manufacturer will put the city’s order in the queue to get fiscal year 2022 prices. He added, “We negotiated terms to pay on delivery.”

That strategy worked well for New Bedford, but not all municipalities are having the same experience.

TOP LEFT: A new “sander” truck will sand the streets of the city of New Bedford, Mass., when there’s inclement weather. It is a recent acquisition to the fleet. (Photo provided by the city of New Bedford, Mass.)

BOTTOM LEFT: The city of San Antonio is adding electric vehicles to its fleet like the one shown charging here. Officials hope to use the Inflation Reduction Act to add more EVs to its fleet. (Photo provided by the city of San Antonio, Texas)

Inventory scarce

Josh Holt, fleet manager for the city of Elkhart, Ind., addressed the question of preordering by saying, “It’s hard to prepurchase when nothing is available.”

Holt has been in his position for three years, and the first year the city had plow trucks on order; however, the manufacturer canceled the order. Holt then scrambled to place an order in November 2021 and still doesn’t have a build date.

Holt said plow trucks have a good life of about 10 years, and now the city has trucks that are 14 years old. He shared that typically the city doesn’t put a lot of money into old trucks and instead used them as trade-ins for new trucks, but now, “We put in a considerable sum of money to keep them going.”

Holt noted the city spent $50,000 more in parts than the year before. In part, that was to take advantage of the opportunity to purchase more than one part if available so the city would have it in stock.

“Whenever we were presented with that opportunity, we did,” he said.

Holt tried to get orders in to avoid price hikes, but it didn’t work so well. “Every year we order 15 police cars; last year we received two cars and Ford canceled the rest of the order,” he reported.

Elkhart has also struggled to secure the prices. Holt said officials hoped the manufacturer would honor the 2022 prices in 2023, but they didn’t.

“Ford is now going to quarterly ordering they’re opening an ordering window for just a few weeks, and then there’s a price hike every time the window opens,” Holt said.

Other manufacturers are setting similar ordering limits. Holt said GM instituted the Tahoe as a police pursuit vehicle and had an ordering window of only 18 hours last February, and it hasn’t announced when or if ordering will open this year.

The city of Elkhart has about 1,300 vehicles, including mowers and 208 police vehicles.

“Every department in the city blew out their fuel budget this year,” Holt said, adding his department is small, and it had to transfer funds at the end of last year by over $8,000. Holt knows the police and street departments were way over budget.

When Holt’s department prepared the budget in 2021, it calculated about $3.21 a gallon; however, at times, it had to pay almost $5 a gallon.

“No one could have foreseen that. Even with our discount, we were paying about $4 a gallon,” Holt said.

Even using state cooperative buying sources, there are still issues, with Holt noting, “It allows me to hurry the process,” but the problem is getting parts.

He has a truck on order that’s been waiting on a microchip since July, but it’s not just microchips. Holt shared he heard from other fleet managers that sprayed bed liners were holding orders up, so he removed those from his specifications and even something like a Ford symbol is holding up deliveries.

Ruben Flores, assistant director of the city of San Antonio, Texas’s, building and equipment services, shared how inflation is affecting his city’s fleets.

“Since the onset of the pandemic, we’ve seen rising vehicle and equipment acquisition and higher maintenance and repair costs, due in large part, to higher parts prices. In addition, there’ve been significant supply chain disruptions, which have caused automotive parts shortages and vehicle delivery delays,” he said via email. “Major vehicle manufacturers have been limiting or canceling annual

production build counts, which has made procuring new vehicles a struggle.”

Flores said despite that, San Antonio has minimized the impact to its operations by maximizing vehicle and equipment lifespans; deferring the purchase of some nonessential light-duty vehicles to future years; retaining certain vehicles and equipment coming out of service to mitigate fleet shortages and truck order backlogs; and remaining proactive with preventive maintenance of existing units to minimize downtime.

Inflation Reduction Act

A provision of the Inflation Reduction Act allows for the use of funds for electrifying fleets, so Gagne, Holt and Flores were each asked if they were having discussions about utilizing that funding source.

Gagne said he was just talking to their American Rescue Plan Act director about that and said it was “absolutely” something New Bedford is looking into.

“Our community is very progressive with electric and hybrid vehicles,” he said, adding the city is looking at the possibility for the next round of police vehicles.

Plow trucks have an average life span of about 10 years. In Elkhart, Ind., several of its trucks are 14 years old, and replacing them has proved challenging. (Photo provided by the city of Elkhart, Ind.)

“They’re finding the care, maintenance and life expectancy is better than gas-powered so we’re always open to those opportunities,” Gagne said.

New Bedford’s inspectors are using electric vehicles, and the city is looking into electric zero-turn mowers. “We’re evaluating some of those as we’re considering replacements.”

Holt was more wary. “I’m not opposed to electrifying, but I have more questions than answers,” he said.

These particularly relate to heavy equipment. For example, he wonders about snowplows, particularly ones that have been out on the road all day in a snowstorm. Would it take 12 hours to charge them? How would that work in terms of operations? Would the city need to double the inventory?

“If it’s the future, I’ll embrace it, but I think there’s a lot to go through first,” he said.

Flores said San Antonio is definitely planning to electrify its fleet. “The city’s commitment to energy conservation and climate action is driving ongoing efforts to green our city’s fleet. Our Municipal Fleet Electrification Plan outlines a strategy to transition the city’s fleet to clean and electric vehicles in line with our city’s Climate Action and Adaption Plan,” he shared.

However, he admitted, “Transitioning a large municipal fleet of 5,700 units is no easy task. Plans are currently underway to expand the charging infrastructure required to support more EVs across our city’s fleet.”

Flores said due to the current limited availability of cost-competitive mediumand heavy-duty electric vehicles, the city is prioritizing purchasing electric sedans and light-duty trucks with plans to phase in other vehicle types and classes as more options become available and prices decrease.

“We will continue to monitor vehicle technology developments and funding opportunities, including the Inflation Reduction Act, and add actions to address those vehicles in the future,” Flores said. “For now, we look forward to receiving more guidance from the Department of the Treasury and the Environmental Protection Agency.”

Flores added, “If the $7,500 tax credit for the purchase of EVs is made available to taxexempt entities, such as local governments, through a Direct Pay model, it would significantly accelerate our ability to convert our fleet to electric.

“We’re also hopeful that the IRA will lead manufacturers to produce viable options for electric fire trucks, garbage trucks and other heavy duty vehicles.”

During these challenging times, Gagne said, “Planning ahead is key because I haven’t seen vehicles go down in price.”

Gagne said the impact of the pandemic is still very real.

“I’ve been a town administrator for 38 years, and I’ve never seen a period like I’ve seen the last 12 to 14 months. The impact is tremendous,” Gagne said.

The city of Elkhart, Ind., has struggled to secure new vehicles in the current market, even having some orders canceled by the manufacturer. Pictured is one of the city’s street department trucks. (Photo provided by the city of Elkhart, Ind.)

Pictured is an electric vehicle used by development services for the city of San Antonio, Texas, being charged. (Photo provided by the city of San Antonio, Texas)

Naming contests stoke interest in public fleets

By KEVIN KILBANE | The Municipal

There’s a Frostasaurus roaming the streets of Boulder, Colo., but city officials and residents aren’t worried. It’s one of a herd of 10 city snowplows bearing names bestowed on them this winter by Boulder elementary schoolchildren.

“We wanted to engage with kids to engage the parents, and it seems to be working,” said Scott Schlecht, city of Boulder transportation maintenance manager. The city’s Snowplow Naming Contest, now in its second year, allows city staff to talk with winning children’s parents about the city’s snow control program and to answer questions, Schlecht explained. Officials hope those parents then share what they learn with friends and neighbors.

“Another goal is for all of us to have fun at work,” he added, and they do!

Communities report fleet vehicle naming contests add fun at work, engage the public and can generate positive publicity.

Sweep 16

When the city of Richmond, Va., bought a mini street sweeper last year to clean its

bike lanes and paved paths, Max HeppBuchanan thought it should have a name. Hepp-Buchanan is director of riverfront and downtown placemaking for Venture Richmond, which works to enhance life in Richmond, especially its downtown.

He contacted the mayor’s office and received the OK for a contest to name the mini street sweeper.

“The initiative was part of the DPW’s (department of public works) overall effort to engage the community and make citizens better aware of the services that we provide,” Torrence Robinson, DPW deputy director of operations and maintenance, said in an email.

Venture Richmond used Twitter to invite name suggestions, Hepp-Buchanan said. The organization received enough good ones that, after clearing name ideas with the city, it

ABOVE: The city of Boulder, Colo., invited winners of its Snowplow Naming Contest to a reception at its maintenance center where they could pose for photos with the plow trucks and enjoy hot cocoa and doughnuts. The contest, which was open to elementary students, gave fun and creative names to 10 of the city’s snowplows. (Photo provided by the city of Boulder, Colo.)

let the public select a winner in a “Sweep 16,” brackets-style format. Hepp-Buchanan recommends holding votes only on acceptable name ideas because the city has to use the winning name.

Voting opened July 27. Venture Richmond announced the winning name, MF BROOM, on Aug. 5. The name is a play on MF (Metal Face) BROOM, a noted, mask-wearing rap music artist born in England who died in 2020. Other name contenders included The Grim Sweeper, Meryl Sweep and Sweepy McSweeperson.

The contest attracted more than 13,000 votes over nine days, Hepp-Buchanan said. Through social media and news coverage,

including stories in Great Britain, more than 9.5 million people saw information about the contest, he added

The fun has continued, too.

“Among the public, it’s just sort of cool when you’re out in the city or you’re out riding bikes or whatever and you see the sweeper,” HeppBuchanan said. “And your friends are like, ‘Oh, there’s MF BROOM!’ Or someone tells you that they had an MF BROOM sighting. I don’t think that happens with any other piece of public machinery that the city owns or operates.”

Name campaign

The city of Dublin, Ohio, has had an annual Paint the Plow program that puts a mural designed by a local student on the blade of a city snowplow. This year, city officials let the community name snowplows, too.

“It really coincided with wanting to show the location of trucks on SnowGo in real time,” said Robert Ranc, deputy city manager.

The city’s SnowGo website provides real-time information about conditions on city streets and the location of its 21 snowplows. City officials thought naming plow trucks would make it more fun for residents to track the trucks’ locations, Ranc added.

The effort is part of the city’s larger goal of being transparent and accountable to the public for services the city provides, he said.

Community residents named 10 snowplows. Students in kindergarten through fifth grade named five plow trucks, and city employees named six trucks.

“Our employees are really the ones who make the snow plowing happen,” Ranc said. “They work long hours we work 12-hour, rotating shifts through snow events. We felt that could be a fun way for them to get involvement and buy-in and just really have a little fun with their efforts.”

The city of Boulder, Colo., invited winners of its Snowplow Naming Contest to pose with the plow truck bearing their winning name suggestion. Frostasaurus was one of 10 winning names in this year’s contest, which was open to students in kindergarten through fifth grade. The contest gives city officials a chance to engage with the public on snow control and generates fun for city workers and community residents. (Photo provided by the city of Boulder, Colo.)

The Name the Plow campaign began in mid-October and announced winning names in early November, said Madi Kregel, city public information officer. Event rules prohibited profane, political or partisan names.

Residents submitted about 285 name suggestions, Kregel said. City communications staff and a few other city staff narrowed that list to a Top 15. The city announced those names on its Facebook page and let the community select their 10 favorites, Kregel said.

The city of Richmond, Va., and civic partner Venture Richmond concluded with the winning name, MF (Metal Face) BROOM, which is a play on the name of late rap music artist MF (Metal Face) DOOM. (Photos provided by Venture Richmond)

Communications staff selected winning names from ideas submitted by schoolchildren, she added. City employees voted to choose their winning names.

“They were really creative, and it was a really fun process to watch that all unfold and see how excited people got about it,” Kregel said of the Name the Plow campaign.

Snowplows now bear names such as Scoop Dogg, Clearapathra, Buzz Iceclear, BRRR-nie, Shaquille Sho’Neil and Snow Busters.

The campaign reached nearly 43,000 people on social media and attracted coverage by some local news outlets, Kregel said.

The campaign also increased public appreciation for city snowplow drivers’ work and boosted staff morale, Ranc said.

Snow much fun

City of Boulder officials had discussed holding a snowplow naming contest for a year or two before launching their event in 2021, Schlecht said. He worked with Rene Lopez, city business services supervisor, and city communications department staff, to develop the contest.

Students in kindergarten through fifth grade submitted name ideas for 10 snowplows. Flyers the city sent to the schools in October contained a QR code so teachers or parents could use smartphones to learn more about the contest and to submit students’ name entries, said Lopez, who provides support to city transportation and mobility efforts, including the snow and ice control program.

“I think the teachers were just instrumental in getting entries this year and last year,” she noted.

The city received about 200 name entries the first year and about 40 entries this year, Lopez said. This year’s contest started later than last year, which could have reduced the entries, she noted.

Staff used the internet and an urban dictionary to check for and rule out inappropriate names, Lopez and Schlecht said. They used a random process to select winners the first year. In 2022, Lopez, Schlecht and city communications staff picked their favorite names. Along with Frostasaurus, winners included Snow What?, Snow Monster, Grateful Sled and Plowerina.

The first year, Schlecht planned to use magnetic signs to attach winning names to snowplows, but the magnets wouldn’t stick well to plow trucks’ doors or dump boxes. However, sticker signs made by the city sign shop worked well.

Boulder held a reception at its maintenance center for students who submitted winning snowplow names and their families. The event featured hot cocoa, doughnuts, a certificate and photos with the snowplow carrying the student’s winning name, Lopez and Schlecht said.

The city also entered a plow truck decorated with all 10 winning names in a community parade of lights in early December.

“There’s lots of picture-taking of all the plow names, and lots of cheering as we go by,” Schlecht said. “You can hear folks calling out the plow names and being excited about that.”

The contest also bolsters city staff morale, Schlecht and Lopez said.

“All of the folks who help with snow removal will talk about the snowplow names, wonder if the truck they’re driving is going to have a name and what that name is going to be,” he said, adding the childish nature of some names also generates good-natured teasing among the snowplow drivers.

“It is fun, and just have fun with it,” Schlecht advised.

The city of Dublin, Ohio, decided this year to invite community residents, schoolchildren and city employees to suggest names for the city’s 21 snowplows. All had fun with the event, which reached nearly 43,000 people through social media. (Photo provided by the city of Dublin, Ohio)

Residents of the city of Dublin, Ohio, can use the city’s SnowGo website, pictured here, to check street conditions and where snowplows are working during snowstorms. The snowplows carry names bestowed on them by city residents and city employees through the Name the Plow campaign. Dublin officials thought naming the snowplows would make them more fun for residents to follow on the SnowGo website. (Photo provided by the city of Dublin, Ohio)

Pedal pushers:

Police departments embrace e-bikes

By JULIE YOUNG | The Municipal

With a top speed of 20 to 28 mph, an e-bike may not rival the horsepower of a patrol car, but for the law enforcement officers who ride them, they have some distinct advantages.

“We can navigate the street a lot faster than we can in a car. It’s easier for people to flag us down, and they allow us to be more observant because we aren’t moving as fast,” said Santa Barbara, Calif., Police Department Sgt. Chris Payne.

A growing trend

According to the International Police Mountain Bike Association, police have used traditional bikes in their work since the 19th century, but there are natural downsides to the manual methods. Besides requiring a lot of energy from the rider, they are heavier because of the additional equipment they must hold, and in terms of speed, they can’t hold a candle to a patrol car.

However, new technology has made e-bikes a growing trend for departments looking to make the shift and give officers a boost. Research has shown that officers not only get to a scene a lot faster, but they also arrive less fatigued, which gives them more energy to perform their duties. It also encourages more officers to join bike patrols, knowing that they will get some extra assistance from the mechanism rather than relying on their own “pedal power.”

Like other California departments, the SBPD already had several officers who rode mountain bikes throughout their patrol area, which includes a big waterfront district. However, when one commander saw an e-bike demonstration at a law enforcement

ABOVE: Trek police/service e-bikes have been made exclusively for patrol use and are outfitted with kickstands and a wire rack to hold the zippered pouch officers carry with them on patrol. The officers wear a modified uniform that is made for cycling. It is not only functional but also wicks away moisture from the rider’s body. (Photo provided by Santa Barbara Police Department)

convention, he knew it was a game changer and something that his bike unit might be interested in. The department secured a grant to purchase three Trek e-bikes, which cost about $5,000 each, and after a successful trial, the Santa Barbara Police Foundation donated another $25,000 to put five more e-bikes on the road.

The Trek police/service e-bike is built exclusively for the men and women of law enforcement, who require quality construction, state-of-the-art components and patrol-ready features, such as a wire rack

and a kickstand. And although they are traditional bikes at their core, they come equipped with an electric motor that assists the officer on his or her ride. As the individual pedals, the motor engages to give the bike a speed boost so that it can move swiftly and smoothly across all types of terrain and inclines, making things a lot easier on the person in the saddle.

“You have to pedal in order for the motor to engage, and the bike stops providing mechanical assistance at 28 mph,” Payne said. “We get about 60 miles per charge, and our officers generally ride about 10 to 15 miles per shift, so it works out really well.”

SBPD has a four-person unit that uses the bikes regularly in addition to Payne. Each bike is fitted out with a Panier zippered pouch that sits over the rear fender, secured to the wired rack. The officers wear their utility belt as well as a modified uniform that is lightweight and wicks moisture away from the body during a ride.

“The modified uniform is especially helpful when you are on the bike,” Payne said.

Getting the job done

In addition to helping officers get to a scene a lot faster than before, e-bikes also provide the opportunity to get more officers involved in bike patrol especially those who were sidelines due to the physical challenges of traditional cycling. They are also better for the environment than a patrol car, cost less and help officers become more approachable to members of the public who might not otherwise engage with them.

Payne said that a patrol car can be intimidating to some and a barrier to effective communication. An e-bike, however, makes an officer more approachable and offers a “cool factor” that serves as a conversation starter, helping officers engage with local citizens. They are also overlooked by would-be offenders.

“Of course, the calls we get are typically quality-of-life calls,” Payne said. “Due to our warm climate and fair weather, our downtown area is inundated with members of the homeless population as well as those with addiction issues. If we are in close proximity to someone in need of help, we can ride on sidewalks or cut through a smaller access point in less time than an officer in a patrol car can. The only thing we can’t do it take someone into custody.”

An officer uses a Trek e-bike on their patrol in Santa Barbara, Calif. The large waterfront district makes e-bike patrols an effective way to respond to community needs. Sgt. Chris Payne said e-bikes allow officers the opportunity to have faster response times than they would have in a patrol car. It also makes them more approachable. (Photo

For municipalities looking to find out if an e-bike patrol would be right for their community, Payne suggests evaluating the large events they have that could benefit from a bike patrol. Parades, county fairs and assorted festivals are typical events in which a police presence is needed and where an

e-bike patrol could be helpful provided officers are trained correctly.

“If you live in a rural area, then it really doesn’t make sense, but for a tight downtown community or a college campus, it’s a great option,” he said.

The Santa Barbara Police Department in Santa Barbara, Calif., receives a check for its e-bikes. The department purchased an initial three bikes through a grant and then received a donation from the Santa Barbara Police Foundation for an additional five bikes, which help officers perform their jobs more efficiently. (Photo provided by Santa Barbara Police Department)

provided by Santa Barbara Police Department)

Transportation grant helps reach vulnerable people in rural West Virginia

By LAUREN CAGGIANO | The Municipal

West Virginia is a largely rural state, meaning many residents are geographically isolated. Some don’t have access to transportation. This can present a challenge to older adults and people with disabilities who need to get to and from appointments. Fortunately, a grant program through the Division of Public Transit within the West Virginia Department of Transportation recently helped facilitate the purchase of eight handicapped-accessible minivans to address this issue.

Bill Robinson, executive director at the West Virginia Department of Transportation, said the funding comes via long-standing programs from the Federal Transit Administration housed under the U.S. Department of Transportation. The Formula Grants for Rural Areas program provides capital, planning

and operating assistance to states to support public transportation in rural areas with populations of less than 50,000, where many residents often rely on public transit to reach their destinations. The program also provides funding for state and national training and

ABOVE: West Virginia holds many rural residents with its largest city being its capital, Charleston, with an approximate population of 50,000. For this reason, it is important to have public transportation available to aid the elderly or those with disabilities reach appointments and more. (Real Window Creative/Shutterstock.com)

technical assistance through the Rural Transportation Assistance Program.

Robinson explained how his agency fits into the picture.

“We’re the multimodal transportation infrastructure division in the West Virginia DOT and we’re the public transit section,” he said. “So, we’re the representatives. We received the FTA money, and any state funds come from the legislature used toward public transit.”

The 20% matching funds are then used to strengthen nonprofit organizations and senior service agencies. More than 40 agencies in the state received financial support to provide rides to their client base. This service is much needed, especially when considering the demographics’ reality.

“We have a population between 1.7 and 1.8 million as of the last census,” said Robinson. “Our capital city is just at right around 50,000 people, one of the largest cities, if not the largest city in the state. We have a lot of rural areas. We have a road system here that’s actually pretty good, but still, you’re talking about a lot of rural roads and a lot of isolated people.”

Robinson further explained how the state’s history has shaped the current landscape. West Virginia’s economic livelihood used to be industrial work and extractive industries, which meant many people got hurt. That’s why the disabled population is top of mind for this outreach work.

Some figures represent the scope and scale of this service. According to Robinson’s office, the program funds more than 6 million rides a year. His calculations indicate that would translate, in theory, to every West Virginia resident riding the bus three times annually.

“These rides could be for medical purposes, going to the pharmacy, getting groceries, seeing friends and relatives, having recreational opportunities anything that you would use public transit to do,” he said.

In this way, the transit program offers a lifeline to the state’s most vulnerable people. At the same time, Robinson said the grantees have had to overcome some challenges. For instance, those catering to older people and the chronically ill are more prone to contracting diseases like COVID-19. These populations still need to get to and from lifesaving appointments and errands. Finding and maintaining a contingency of drivers is a related problem agencies face.

“The employees themselves are also older and what we’ve found is drivers have stepped away because they had concerns over COVID and other health issues,” Tony O’Leary, Section 5310 program manager, said. “They didn’t want to be in a position where they were in the enclosed car confinements of the vehicle. That’s probably the prevailing reason why drivers have been tough to either retain or hire. So, there’s the fear of the health element.”

Economic strain is another looming factor.

“The inflation on the vehicles has ... skyrocketed, so you can’t get as much for your money, if you can even get anything at all,” Robinson said. “And that’s a big problem we’re addressing right now with what contracts we have for vehicles. Because, as the state, we have to have contracts to obtain vehicles. We just can’t go and buy vehicles. Using what contracts we have been able to put together, we’re trying to address that right

now with the injection of a pretty good sum of money into the situation to obtain some new vehicles.”

Despite the recent lay of the land, Robinson is cautiously optimistic about what lies ahead. Now that supply chain issues are somewhat easing up, he expects they’ll be able to purchase more vehicles and positively impact more lives.

The nonprofit Kanawha Valley Senior Services Inc. provides “door-to-door” transportation services for seniors aged 60 and above in Kanawha County, W.Va., who need physical assistance with transportation. (Photo provided by Kanawha Valley Senior Services Inc.)

Kanawha Valley Senior Services Inc. (KVSS) provides transportation for nonemergency medical appointments, occasional group grocery store shopping and some community events. (Photo provided by Kanawha Valley Senior Services Inc.)

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Riverside named as the greenest

By BETH ANNE BRINK-COX | The Municipal

We hear the term “green” used for so many things these days that it might not register as the important issue it represents. But Riverside, Calif., sure knows the meaning and definition of “green,” having recently been named by the National Association of Fleet Administrators as the No. 1 greenest fleet for 2022.

NAFA is the vehicle fleet industry’s largest membership association, a nonprofit trade association for professionals who manage fleets of automobiles, SUVs, trucks, vans and a wide range of specialized mobile equipment for organizations in the United States and Canada. These vehicles are the foundation of many businesses and can range in type from taxi cabs, rental cars, trucks, buses and more. The Green Fleet Awards recognize sustainability efforts and honor the fleets that have enhanced practices to make a more positive impact on the environment.

The achievement of this award is truly something to be proud of, and Riverside is justifiably so. It takes the overall green picture very seriously: the Envision Riverside 2025 Strategic Plan calls for Riverside to reach carbon neutrality by 2040. In keeping with that, in January, the city of Riverside began requiring most new buildings of three stories or fewer to be all electric. By 2026, all new buildings, regardless of height, will have to meet this requirement.

Jessica Spiking, administrative analyst for the fleet department, knows her work well and explained more about what all this means, and why it’s important to keep moving beyond fossil fuels.

“Fleet vehicles are ranked accordingly: light, medium or heavy duty. We have everything from small sedans, like Honda Civics, to trash trucks and tractors.” If you’re not used to thinking of tractors in any capacity but farming, Spiking said, “They’re used for street maintenance, repair jobs, things like the park division. Say the water department is replacing water lines; the tractors are used to break the ground, break up the dirt, so the next steps can be made more quickly.”

As for the city’s ranking, Spiking said, “We’ve placed in high positions before. We usually finish in the top 10, and we got No. 1 in 2012. So it’s been a while, and we never stop working toward that goal. We have that strategic plan previously mentioned, Envision Riverside 2025, and part of that is environmental stewardship, reducing the carbon footprint. We all need to do that. So for the

by NAFA fleet

ABOVE: Riverside’s fleet uses a variety of alternative fuels and runs 42% of its vehicles on them. This was part of the reason for the No. 1 rating recently awarded. (Photo provided by the city of Riverside, Calif.)

fleet, we looked into every possibility electric, hybrid, hydrogen, propane, really anything considered low emission. Our current plan is to replace older vehicles with those using alternative kinds of fuels. Whenever we go out to purchase new vehicles, that’s what we look for. That’s what we’re careful about, purchasing something that reduces, like our plan. We’re starting to do the research on replacing our heavier duty vehicles. It’s a little stressful. There’s a lot of talk about electric cars, and we’ve worked closely with the Department of Electricity, working to plan carefully with the infrastructure so it will be able to support the vehicles planned.”

Spiking said the award is something fleets can apply for, a competition of sorts. “I started working here in 2015 and have worked on this annual report almost every year since then. There are requirements, of course, and only certain kinds of fleets can apply; we’re a government agency, so we qualify. And it feels so good to be No. 1! Everyone works so hard to make it happen. Our mechanics put in a lot of work to make sure everything is up and running properly.”

2022 wasn’t the first time Riverside took first place in the green fleet competition, and it won’t be the last either. Plans are continually evolving with more developments and innovations always underway, a crucial part of being environmentally responsible. (Photo provided by the city of Riverside, Calif.)

When asked if the No. 1 rating had any perks or benefits for the winners, Spiking said, “I believe there could be. A lot of different cities have requested tours of our facilities, looking at us for best practices and ideas they could incorporate. I believe, too, there are grant opportunities. I mean, we have a station here where the public can fill their cars with CNG (compressed natural gas). I’m not sure if the award in 2012 had anything to do with some of that.” compressed natural gas is a gasoline and diesel fuel alternative consisting primarily of methane. It’s created by compressing methane down to less than 1% of its volume; it is safer than gasoline and diesel fuels because it is nontoxic and doesn’t contaminate groundwater.

Spiking said other cities considering this kind of program might do as she did when she first began her work with it all.

“For me, being one who helped with the applications, I’d say familiarize yourselves with the city’s policies, goals, what’s green and sustainable already. Look at the city website. Do some research. Reach out to the city manager’s office. What’s their current fleet composed of? What do their vehicles do? You have to kind of immerse yourself into the whole process.”

But of course it can’t be done in one fell swoop.

“We have a vehicle replacement program. To give you a little background on that: When the city vehicles are purchased, initially there are monthly fees that are paid into a reserve fund. Once the vehicle has reached the end of its usefulness, there is some money set aside for the replacement. It’s not such a big bite all at once.”

There are criteria to meet when it’s time to replace vehicles. “Alternative fuel sources, flex fuel, electric we’re starting the process, but we have to work on the infrastructure to meet all those needs. Heavy vehicles are replaced with better choices, but they’re better not just because they’re newer, but because the fuel usage is cleaner. (We’re) always keeping that 2040 goal in mind. Diesel fuel will be going away. Most of our trash trucks are almost all CNG tanks now, and they have a certain lifespan of about 15 years. So we were looking into the replacement costs, and we realized the trucks were actually in pretty good shape, and that got us thinking. We reached out for quotes, comparing the cost of replacing the tanks versus replacing the trucks altogether. We ended up just replacing the tank, which cost less but still gave us good results.”

This plan has been going on in various incarnations for some time now, with Spiking noting, “Our oldest vehicle is a Honda Civic, and it’s a 2000. We just put in an E85 fuel pump for a few vehicles.”

E85 or flex fuel is a term that refers to high-level ethanolgasoline blends, containing 51% to 83% ethanol, which is made from plant materials, such as corn, sugar cane and grasses. The ratio depends on geography and season.

“But we do still have a few diesel trucks. The fire trucks are considered emergency vehicles, and they still use diesel. But there’s beginning to be more manufacturing of all-electric, so we’re getting everything else in order. Have to be ready to use them when we can. The solid waste department has an order in for, I think, six solid waste trucks, and that should be exciting. You have to wonder, how

will they work? What will be the benefit?”

As with just about everything else, the pandemic and supply shortages slowed everything down for a while, but Spiking said, “I feel like we’re still on track for our carbon neutrality by 2040, and I believe the rest of the city is working toward it, too. The city manager, Mike Futrell, is very proactive. He’s constantly reading up on all the newest news, and how they’re planning all the infrastructure. I believe they’re making solar-powered chargers that don’t need to be plugged into anything. He wants to stay up on everything. A lot of the trucks have GPS systems now; most of our

vehicles, in fact, have a GPS, and I know that our refuse department uses them to map their routes for the trash trucks. They can figure out the most efficient route, even down to analyzing things like a right or left turn and analyze idle time because that also affects emissions.”

Spiking concluded, “Community reaction has been, I would hope, good! I know that when the No. 1 rating was announced, our marketing department sent out a social media blast. I think a lot of people may not really understand all that’s involved when they see city vehicles driving around. It’s not just the city and not just the fleet. It

all works together.”

One of the larger trucks in the fleet is getting ready for the day’s use. These vehicles often have a GPS system that actually helps determine more efficient usage of fuel, time and cuts down on the distance of certain routes, which makes them easier to complete in less time. (Photo provided by the city of Riverside, Calif.)

A fleet encompasses vehicles of every size for multiple uses. The varying cars, trucks and so on that make up Riverside’s fleet are not only carefully maintained, they are part of the bigger picture in planning for that goal of carbon free by 2040, and every detail is considered when making decisions and purchases. (Photo provided by the city of Riverside, Calif.)

Efficiency Through Automation

GVM’s Direct Application Systems (DAS) are designed to spray anti-icing liquids directly onto road surfaces. They are available in a wide range of sizes, to fit any fleet or budget. In a pinch, DAS units can also be used for dust control on unpaved surfaces.

Learn

La Crosse, Wis.:

Beer and fish in the Driftless Region

Hop in that car and head off to La Crosse, Wis., for one of the best times imaginable. Even the scenery along the way will entice you. (Photo provided by Explore La Crosse)

If all a person knows about Wisconsin is the logging industry, cheese or “That ’70s Show,” it’s time to jump into the car and head to La Crosse. Explorer Zebulon Pike named the city after leading a group of people up the Mississippi River to the site: The name came when he saw an indigenous group playing a game with sticks, and it looked like a cross. La Crosse is the French phrase for, you guessed it: cross.

When Media and Marketing Director Haleigh Doyle was asked what makes the city unique, she replied, “Just name your niche. The La Crosse region is mere hours from the hustle and bustle of Midwest hubs and bursts with adventures that are as unique as each explorer. Nestled between ancient bluffs and along the Mississippi River, the area offers exciting flavors, charming history, captivating views and unparalleled outdoor recreation. You can discover savory craft beverages and sophisticated shops, epic festivals and live entertainment, exciting angling and more than 100 miles of trails. Your next adventure

Doyle noted Grandad Bluff, so called because early La Crosse residents thought the profile of the bluff resembled an old man and affectionately called it “Grandad” or “Old Grand Daddy.” The resemblance has lessened some because of erosion, but the name remains. Or maybe visit Sunny the Sunfish: He is 15 feet high and 25 feet long. Sunny is the ambassador of Onalaska, known as the “Sunfish Capital of the World.” He was unveiled in 1998 and restored in 2012 and is quite a sight. Visitors will definitely want to pose with him for a

Then there’s Riverside Park, home of the authentic paddle wheeler, the La Crosse Queen. The park offers all sorts of beauty, such as the Riverside International Friendship Gardens, which call out for a leisurely stroll-through. It also holds seasonal community events, such as concerts at the band shell.

For those who prefer shopping, check out the historic area Downtown Mainstreet where diverse activities mixed in with wonderful places to shop can be found. This includes high-quality yarn stores just ask about La Crosse’s own Jonah Larson, who taught himself to crochet at the age of five. When taking a break from shopping, visit downtown restaurants and sample local delicacies.

Anyone who is intrigued by fun restaurant names and likes Cajun and Creole food should check out Buzzard Billy’s Flying Carp Café. For wine connoisseurs, there are vineyards all around and tours to take. Or take a trip through the breweries and visit the World’s Largest Six Pack six 54-foot-tall storage tanks at the G. Heileman Brewery, built in 1969. The brewery makes more than beer now try tea, soda or an energy drink and marvel at the sign that says the giant sixpack would fill over 7 million 12-ounce cans, “which would provide

one person a six pack a day for 3,351 years.” It should be noted too that this brewery is the birthplace of LaCroix flavored water.

There’s also the Mindoro Cut, the second deepest cut built by hand in the Western Hemisphere. Most people are awed by the sheer scope of it 86 feet long and 25 feet wide. Created mostly with hand tools and a little dynamite where needed, it was begun in 1907, completed the following year and links a creamery to a railroad station. One hundred years later, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

And that’s only the beginning of the attractions Doyle can enumerate.

“We aren’t bluffing. We have ancient history. The La Crosse Region is nestled in the Driftless Region, a unique part of the world with unparalleled views and ancient, distinct topography. ‘Drift’ refers to glacial drift: the rock and sediment deposited by a glacier as it moves over an area of land. A small piece of the Upper Mississippi Region was left untouched during the last Ice Age, leaving no glacial erosion or deposits. While surrounding landscapes were flattened by glaciers, the

Driftless Region remains with the original, rugged terrain of the Upper Midwest.

“The natural topography reaches into parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois,” she continued. “However, the La Crosse Region is special. It’s located where the Mississippi River and Driftless Region collide, beside the Great River Road.”

For visitors who like to fish, Doyle added that the Fish La Crosse Lunker League is a program that celebrates anglers fishing in the La Crosse Region and the memorable fish they catch.

The term “lunker” is used by anglers to describe an exceptionally large fish for its type. A twopound largemouth bass wouldn’t seem out of the ordinary, but a bluegill of the same size would definitely be classed a lunker.

Doyle continued, “Anglers are encouraged to participate by virtually submitting their catch online. Lunker League features different goals and milestones to earn your way into the program, earn accreditation and win additional awards. This year-round program promotes a variety of fishing

La Crosse offers countless outdoor recreation visitors. (Photo provided by Explore

All ages love Sunny the Sunfish. (Explore La Crosse/Jack Gerhardt)

recreation opportunities for residents and La Crosse)

LEFT: Sunny the Sunfish knows how to charm the ladies and is a popular place to snap a photo. (Explore La Crosse/Samantha Buschman)

La Crosse’s trails are the perfect way to explore the natural world. There’s so much to see and so many things to do, no matter your level of skill and fitness. (Photo provided by Explore La Crosse)

types and includes both free and unlimited entries for residents and visitors alike.”

And, Doyle said, “La Crosse has prospects for all types, no matter an angler’s preference, experience level or the current season including opportunities for conventional fishing or fly-fishing, as well as the chance to fish from shore, boat or on ice. The area boasts healthy populations of panfish, walleye, trout, catfish and bass, to name a few.” In local waters, an angler can pull in brown trout, rainbow trout, and brook trout all kinds of good eating.

Doyle said the slogan, “‘We’re festive all yearlong’ is not really our slogan, but something we’re proud of. We proudly host over 100 festivals and events in our region, from beer tastings and moon tunes in the park, to holiday lights, symphony performances, Kornfest and more.” Don’t forget about Friday night fish fries, the La Crosse Community Theatre, golf, birding, Between

the Bluffs Beer, the Wine and Cheese Festival, winter skiing and summer kayaking. Visitors will see trolleys they can hop on and do some more sightseeing. They’ll also see the “Castle on the Cass,” an award-winning bedand-breakfast and a famous photo destination. Castle La Crosse has become a landmark, and it is the best-preserved example of late 19th century residential architecture in the region. Or they can explore Third Street, known for having the most bars on a single street in the U.S. It’s listed as such in the “Guinness Book of World Records.”

For the outdoorsy, nature-loving type, there are more than 400 campsites and more than 100 miles of well-maintained bike paths and trails. There are hiking trails, particularly enjoyable during the colors of autumn. “The Bluffs Blog” said well: “No matter your niche, you and your entourage will find a plethora of adventures to explore.”

Walleye is just one species of fish that can be reeled in the La Crosse area.

(Photo provided by Explore La Crosse)

Building a blue bridge: Police debit card program provides immediate relief

By JULIE YOUNG | The Municipal

Brian Spracklen said the idea for the Blue Bridge Alliance came from the 2011 shooting death of a respected San Diego, Calif., police officer just after performing a random act of kindness.

The officer had been on patrol in an underserved neighborhood when he stopped at a fast-food restaurant to get something to eat. While he was there, he saw a young man counting out pennies for his food. The officer reached into his own pocket and covered the boy’s tab, then returned to his patrol car.

“The whole thing was caught on the store’s surveillance camera,” Spracklen said. “Five minutes later, someone came up and shot him.”

Coming from a law enforcement family, Spracklen knew it was all too common for officers to take money from their own wallet to help someone in need. He thought it would be nice if officers had access to a community-supported fund for those times in which a little cash can make all the difference. He talked to his uncle, Kennewick, Wash., police officer Ken Hohenberg, about the idea, and in

2015 the two launched a pilot program that has offered interim relief to over 400 individuals and families. Today, the Blue Bridge Alliance also helps create similar programs in communities throughout the United States.

Simple concept nets big results

The concept is simple. Community members donate money to the department, which is then loaded onto debit cards that can be used by officers for immediate emergencies such as a hotel room after a house fire, a tank of gas in the middle of the night or school supplies for a child who has none. Spracklen said the funds are not enough to turn someone’s life around, but they often serve as a stopgap until additional services can be coordinated.

“Each time an officer uses the card, they upload their receipt into our computer system and then fill out a report about the situation,” Spracklen said. “This helps us gather some demographic data and learn about how the officer was able to help. It’s very important to us that officers are not only helping people, but that they are making a connection in the community.”

Every week Spracklen learns new ways in which officers are using the capital to make a difference. In one instance, an officer was called to investigate foul odors coming from a property. The policeman learned that the residents could not afford trash service, so their garbage was remaining on-site prompting repeated complaints. The officer used his own pickup to take the trash to the city dump and the sponsored debit card to pay the fee for the people and give them a clean start.

A band-aid makes a difference

Rick Johnson is the police chief for East Wenatchee, Wash. The Wenatchee Police Department has partnered with the Blue Bridge Alliance, and the department has eight cards in total that are distributed among 24 officers, four sergeants and two school resource officers. Those who do not have a debit card on them can access one if needed. The resource officers often provide winter gear for a child who has none, and they have gotten creative with their assistance at times such as when they helped a local foster child personalize her living space.

“We had a ‘Make a Difference Day,’ in which some kids were painting a mural to cover up some graffiti. An officer dropped off his own kids

at school, saw the (mural) kids and bought them some refreshments to enjoy while they worked,” Johnson said.

When a department decides to partner with the Blue Bridge Alliance, the organization gets them started with a $2,000 donation while they spread the word throughout the community that there is a way to get involved. Johnson said there has been enthusiastic support for the program, and as of January, the department had $9,000 in its account.

Blue Bridge sets up the infrastructure, provides the department with the hardware and software needed to execute the program and takes a 10% cut.

“We are a nonprofit, so we are only covering our costs. In exchange, the department doesn’t have to ask one of their employees to take on the added responsibility,” Spracklen said. “It’s a small price to pay for a turnkey operation.”

The Blue Bridge Alliance pilot program ends June 30, after which each department will be self-sustaining. While Blue Bridge is currently working with a number of departments across Washington state, Spracklen hopes to grow the program both in the state and across the country.

“It takes money to start a program like this in a community, but once it begins, it really starts to run itself,” he said.

Johnson said it’s important for people to know that this isn’t like other police charitable programs, such as shop-with-a-cop or holiday assistance funds.

“We may not be able to fill your refrigerator with food, but if you are hungry right now, we can buy you a meal,” he said. “It’s a Band-Aid at best, but it connects us to the community and

that we care.”

shows

Police in East Wenatchee, Wash., helped local foster child Ja’Niah personalize her living space with assistance from the Blue Bridge Alliance. Ja’Niah is a student Eastmont schools whose room decor went a long way toward giving the youngster some muchneeded self-esteem. (Photo provided by East Wenatchee Police Department)

Ja’Niah had a great time riding along with an East Wenatchee police officer to pick up decor for her room. The student at Eastmont schools is just one of the many people who have been helped by the department’s partnership with the Blue Bridge Alliance. (Photo provided by East Wenatchee Police Department)

East Lansing residents ‘Round Up’ for parks and recreation scholarships

By NICHOLETTE CARLSON | The Municipal

The East Lansing, Mich., Parks, Recreation and Arts Department recently started a new Round Up for scholarships program for residents who wish to participate in parks department programming but don’t have the financial means to do so. Catherine DeShambo, East Lansing director of parks, recreation and arts, explained, “Our strategic priorities over the last year and a half or so have really been focused on removing barriers for participation in our programs and looking at ways in which we can be more inclusive and welcoming.”

As parks and recreation staff members discussed what keeps some members of the community from participating in programs, they discovered the associated fees and costs could be a deterrent. The conversation then turned to scholarships.

“One of the conversations we were having involved the question of how we could ensure that everyone who needs a scholarship to participate in our programming, whether that be youth athletics or learn to swim, or even adult dance or fitness or art classes, knows that scholarships are available and can easily access that funding,” DeShambo said.

While East Lansing does have scholarships available through the Community Development Block Grant for resident youth programs and private donations for adult yoga, the Round Up-funded scholarship will be available to anyone for any other program offered through the department. (Photo provided by East Lansing, Mich., Parks, Recreation and Arts Department)

Brought to the team’s attention were the various sources of scholarship funding already available. The department receives funding through the Community Development Block Grant for scholarships for resident youth program participation, for one. There are also private donation funds to provide scholarships for adult dance and yoga. However, DeShambo admitted, “We knew that we still weren’t covering all cases of need because these existing programs had certain limitations. We knew we wanted a more flexible funding source that could cover both youth and adults but hadn’t quite landed on the solution yet.”

Around the same time, the department was also in the midst of a multi-meeting exercise with the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, which was looking at the equity of the department’s fee schedule.

“During one of those deep-dive discussions in which we were talking about some of the limitations of our existing scholarship funding, a

While East Lansing Parks, Recreation and Arts staff members were discussing how to overcome one of the biggest hindrances for community members participating in programs costs and fees a member on the advisory commission suggested a Round Up program, similar to what retail stores will do for charities. In a few weeks, the program was implemented, and residents were offered the opportunity to round up when they pay for a class, buy a fitness pass or visit the community center. (Photo provided by East Lansing, Mich., Parks, Recreation and Arts Department)

commissioner mentioned that it would be nice if the city could do what a lot of retail businesses do for charities by asking customers if they wanted to round up their purchase,” she stated. “It was a ‘eureka’ moment, and our staff ran with it.”

The first step in the process was checking with the financial department to ensure it was an idea that could be implemented. Work on graphics and spreading the word about the program was the job of the communications department. The Round Up program was launched Nov. 14, only between four and six weeks after the idea surfaced.

With the Round Up program, any type of paid transaction through the parks, recreation and arts department can be rounded up, with that money set aside for scholarship funding. Community members are also able to donate by designating a specific donation dollar amount when signing up for a class, buying or renewing a fitness pass or visiting the East Lansing Hannah Community Center. The department is also working on an easy online donation option.

The Round Up program is managed by the same parks recreation staff who already manage the existing scholarship funds.

“We have developed guidelines and will look to this fund to help those community members who don’t meet the qualifications of our other scholarship funding sources,” DeShambo explained.

Scholarship funding from the Round Up program can be used for a youth or adult, resident or nonresident, for any class or program offered

The East Lansing Parks, Recreation and Arts Department continues to work on promoting Round Up to the community so that every resident has the opportunity to participate in parks department programming. These health, wellness and leisure activities are believed to be the cornerstone of healthy, happy communities. (Photo provided by East Lansing, Mich., Parks, Recreation and Arts Department)

through the city’s parks, recreation and arts department including aquatics, youth sports, camps, adult fitness, youth and adult dance, youth and adult art, and more. Youth activities include ballet, drawing, taekwondo and baseball. Adult programs offered include 50-plus ballet, pottery, painting, pickleball and WERQ.

“We truly believe that the program offerings of parks, recreation and arts are truly the cornerstone to healthy, happy communities and these offerings should be available to all who are interested,” she stressed. Because it’s a new program, as of January, the funds had not been utilized for a scholarship yet. However, it remains accessible for use and the money supply is increasing.

“We recognize that we have a ways to go in promoting this fund within our community,” DeShambo acknowledged, “but we are off to a good start and excited to provide this opportunity for those unmet needs.”

For other cities who may consider implementing a similar program, she suggested: “Engage both staff and your community for ideas and input and try to identify those unmet needs that may exist. If you have existing scholarship programs, take a close look to see if there are needs in your community that the current funding doesn’t meet. For us, I think we feel we still have much work to do in ensuring that there is awareness and access to both this scholarship funding and all of the sources of scholarship funding that we have available, and that all this funding contributes to equity in participation.”

Urban renewal emphasis changes the landscape of downtown Twin Falls

By BETH ANNE BRINK-COX | The Municipal

A clock in the city of Twin Falls, Idaho.(Photo by Michael Gordon / Shutterstock.com).

What do most people think of when they think of Twin Falls, Idaho? How about Shoshone Falls on the Snake River? Or maybe the Perrine Bridge, crossing the Snake River Canyon?

Natural assets aside, Twin Falls is no slouch when it comes to business development. Mitchel Humble is the deputy city manager, which means he oversees a lot of planning. In fact, he is the liaison for all of the city departments that serve residents directly.

Humble came from Texas and served as the city planner in Frisco. He then became the planning director in Prosper until he came to Twin Falls in 2006. “I served as the community development director until 2014 and have been in this position for the last eight years.”

He said large companies and industrial businesses wishing to relocate to Twin Falls found there weren’t a lot of suitable sites, but that’s changing. A proposed industrial park could make a million square feet available when all is said and done.

“Say you wanted to open a law office or something like that. There’d be available space for that, but when it comes to manufacturing, it was previously not possible. Now we have the Chobani Yogurt plant and a Clif Bar baking plant just south of Chobani. Those are big businesses.”

Chobani completed an expansion in 2018, and additional expansions planned for a later date will provide up to 450 additional full-time jobs.

“Chobani invested hundreds of millions, which added to the tax rolls, and that money improved the infrastructure. Chobani was attracted to Twin Falls because we had a ton of milk, so it was a win-win-win and created about 1,000 jobs. But they stayed for other reasons. Idaho is more than just potatoes, although those are still

a big deal here. We look for the things we can do well, and food processing is the heart here,” said Humble.

What makes these developments particularly special is the financing. Additionally, Twin Falls Urban Renewal Agency and the Twin Falls City Council unanimously approved a development deal in March 2022 for what was described as the aforementioned Class A industrial park.

“Urban renewal helps defer start-up costs, because they install infrastructure with their own money instead of asking taxpayers to cover it. Our tax bases grow, and the developers have their infrastructure investment costs reimbursed over time. Everyone benefits, really, and the taxpayers are enthusiastic in their support because it’s not costing them anything more,” said Humble.

“We call it a taxing finance plan,” he continued. “It’s one of the very few economic developments and redevelopment tools that we have at our disposal; this is our main one. A kind of thinking started about how we could get bigger businesses to come to town, and it developed into the Urban Renewal Agency. And in subsequent years, we continued to think of so many great things we could do.”

The growth has been amazing.

“Today, it’s so much different than when I came to town. Everything is chugging right along. For example, we broke ground for the Main Avenue Lofts in 2020, the first large-scale, multipurpose building in downtown Twin Falls. The building sits kitty-corner from

ABOVE: This photo is a particular favorite of Mitchel Humble and shows the morning sunlight accentuating the special features of the new City Hall and Commons. It’s easy to see how this renovated space adds a lot to the downtown area. (Photo provided by the city of Twin Falls)

city hall; it has six stories, and the ground floor is retail space and a 2,800-square-foot restaurant space.”

The ground floor businesses in Main Avenue Lofts are for start-up women entrepreneurs who are working with the Idaho Women’s Business Center. The second floor is office space with an expected tenancy of 60 businesses, and the top four floors are apartments. The businesses and offices will be open soon. The other half of the block features a big parking lot.

As a further benefit to the community, 20% of the 44 apartments are rent restricted at U.S. Housing and Urban Development affordable rates and are available to households making 80% or less of the area’s median income.

The city also came in and bought property on a main corner, Humble said. “It was an old, dilapidated furniture store, really horrible looking by then, and it was torn down to the bones. It became city hall. But we found some materials in the buildings wood, you know, structural stuff like ceiling joists and paneling on some of the walls, so we made a giant conference table from those materials. Whenever someone sits at that table for the first time, they say, ‘Wow, that’s an impressive table,’ and when we explain its origins, they think it’s really great. And it is.”

An old hotel was torn down to create Plaza Square for all kinds of public gatherings on Main. The same developer is working with the Urban Renewal Agency and the city on two more vacant buildings on the other corners and wants to build a parking garage in between. “That would increase parking about six times more than what we have now. That’s our next big downtown project.”

In 2021, the agency also approved a proposal from the Children’s Museum of the Magic Valley for development of a property that would become a multistory museum. Humble explained how the funding worked.

“It’s an aspirational group, still fundraising. So, the partnership was for the land, in effect saying, ‘When you get your money, you can build it here.’ The agency can’t fund the construction, but the money that would have had to be spent on land can be used for other needs. That’s a big deal. We can help with water lines and sidewalks and so on, too. I think it’ll happen. I think it’ll be great when it does.”

Twin Falls is also an official Pollinator Friendly Community. As the city’s official website states, “The mission of Bee City USA and Monarch City USA in the City of Twin Falls is to galvanize the community to sustain pollinators, which are responsible for the production of almost 90 percent of the world’s flowering plant species. The community can sustain them by providing bees and butterflies with healthy habitats that are largely free of pesticides.” A download is available on the site with a PDF of the plants most likely to attract bees and butterflies.

“There was this local group of bee handlers that came to us and said, ‘We think it would be really cool if the city would let us do this.’ They worked with the planning department and started down the Bee City path. Then there was another group advocating for butterflies, so they got lumped together. We have all these native plants and a pollinator-friendly demonstration park where you can go, and they will show you what to plant at your house to attract butterflies and bees. There’s only two or three of these in Idaho, and we’re one

Pictured is Main Avenue Lofts under further construction, making it easier to envision what was going to be there in a relatively short time. (Photo provided by the city of Twin Falls)

Courtney Conservation Park is a pollinator-friendly park and holds many well-attended events. Passersby picture exactly what kinds of bees and butterflies these native plants will attract. (Photos provided by the city of Twin Falls)

of them. We’re proud of that, especially considering that this is a low-water area.”

There is also a local retiree Lamar Orton who used to work for the city, who owns a home on the edge of town. Humble said he has created a botanical garden of native plants that is open to the public.

“He worked closely with the planning department to do this he used to be the planning director himself, and he retired in 2005. But his interest never retired. It’s called Orton Botanical Garden. There isn’t a sign there or anything, but everyone knows where it is and could show you how to find it. It’s definitely a place you’d want to see. He likes to walk through and talk with sightseers, and he points out all kinds of interesting things. I went through with him once; he has a prickly pear cactus there, with fruit growing on top. He pulled out a knife, cut one off and sliced it and we shared it right there, fresh off the cactus.”

Twin Falls also boasts the Herrett Center for Arts and Science and the Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve. There is a historical society museum, a water park and places to eat and to shop; there’s ziplining, kayaking or paddleboarding for the more adventurous, and waterfalls to chase. Tuck some Chobani and Clif bars into a backpack and go exploring.

Thanks to being an active city in its planning and implementation, the town is growing before everyone’s eyes. Visitors might just want to stay a while longer than they had planned!

Tom Courtney was a long-time city manager at Twin Falls. This park was named for him, and the rustic sign fits beautifully among its surroundings. (Photo provided by the city of Twin Falls)

With great growth, Charlotte, N.C., has adding close to 200,000 more drivers, pedestrians and cyclists to our streets, paths and intersections. (f11photo/Shutterstock.com)

TravelSafely app launched in Charlotte to improve traffic safety

By STACI REAFSNYDER | The Municipal

The city of Charlotte, N.C., has launched a new pilot program app geared toward improving traffic safety within the city: the TravelSafely app. The app was launched on Nov. 10, 2022, by Charlotte Department of Transportation as a pilot project for the South End neighborhood of the city.

“The new app is designed to improve safety for motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists by connecting users to a network of intersection and crosswalk data, as well as to each other,” Charlotte’s website, charlottenc.gov, states.

According to the TravelSafely website, travelsafely.com, the app uses cutting-edge technology to connect cellphones to a network of traffic intersections, school beacons, motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

“The app uses audible warnings to alert you to potentially dangerous road conditions. By utilizing spoken alerts, TravelSafely allows you to focus on the road and receive alerts while using your favorite mapping app,” travelsafely.com states.

The TravelSafely app is designed for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists to improve traffic, as well as connect its users to a database of intersections and crosswalk data. The app has many features to notify motorists of traffic issues. For example, motorists will be notified when a light is about to turn green at an intersection, as well as be warned of an approaching red light. The app will also notify motorists if they are traveling too fast in the designated speed zone and also warn motorists if a cyclist or pedestrian is nearby; of course, the cyclist or pedestrian will need to be using the app, too. Other warnings include sharp curves ahead, the potential for rear-end collisions and approaching emergency vehicles.

“The app is part of the city’s Vision Zero safety initiative that seeks to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries. All information shared on the app is anonymous and protected,” the city website states.

Vision Zero was originally started in Sweden in 1997. The goal of Vision Zero is to eliminate all traffic-related deaths and severe injuries, while increasing safety, health and mobility for all.

“Over the past 10 years our city has seen explosive population growth, adding close to 200,000 more drivers, pedestrians and cyclists to our streets, paths and intersections,” the city website states. “Charlotte has responded by creating a variety of safe ways for people to move around the city and connect with each other we’ve upgraded intersections, added more bike lanes and built additional sidewalks as we continue to work towards the best possible transportation and pedestrian safety systems for our growing city.”

Vision Zero was implemented in Charlotte in 2018, with a plan to reduce crashes and to eliminate severe injuries and trafficrelated deaths. Charlotte states even one traffic-related death is too many. The guiding principles of Vision Zero state that traffic deaths and severe injuries are preventable and that protecting human lives takes priority over all other objectives of the road system.

“The transportation system should be designed so mistakes are not fatal,” Charlottes’s website states. “Solutions must be collaborative, equitable and data-driven. Safety on our streets is everyone’s responsibility. Our community is accountable for implementing the Vision Zero Action plan, measuring performance and responding accordingly.”

The app is just one tool toward Charlotte’s goal of Vision Zero. In its “Vision Zero 2020 Highlights Report,” the city notes its construction of protected bike lanes on The Plaza from Central to Parkwood, the installation of a Fifth and Sixth streets cycle track, speed limit reductions in areas where traffic calming was requested and lighting improvements in other areas along the high injury network. Throughout all these steps, Charlotte has maintained a high social media presence to promote Vision Zero and raise awareness for traffic safety.

According to the city website, the use of the TravelSafely app provides supplemental information to enhance driving decisions while following the rules of the road. All travelers using the app still need to remain alert

Charlotte is piloting the TravelSafely app to help achieve its Vision Zero goal, which would bring traffic fatalities to zero. One aspect of the app is to warn motorists of nearby bicyclists. (Toa55/Shutterstock.com)

and mindful of all responsibilities as a motorist, pedestrian or cyclist, but it is designed to aid in the safety of all travelers. The Charlotte Metro Police Department will use injury and fatal crash data to conduct targeted enforcement throughout the city on speeding, seatbelt usage, distracted driving and driving while impaired.

Publicinput.com, the website collecting public feedback and data on the TravelSafely pilot program, says the goal of the program is to encourage residents to download the app

and use it within the designated area of the South End. To do this, an information campaign is underway to show the public of the benefits of TravelSafely usage.

The app is available for both Android and iOS devices to encourage use across all users. The pilot program will conclude in November 2023. Upon completion of the program, the CDOT will evaluate before-and-after crash data to determine the effectiveness of the app.

Charlotte’s Vision Zero initiatives benefit pedestrians by increasing their visibility to motorists. (Sharkshock/Shutterstock.com)

Calling on the sun to improve trail safety

By NICHOLETTE CARLSON | The Municipal

Safety is paramount in Paragould, Ark., and city officials proved it again in 2022 by installing trail cameras as part of the improvements along 8 Mile Creek trail. This trail is 4.2 miles long and paved 10 feet wide; it opened in 2021.

James Kashak, Paragould director of parks and recreation, noted that the trail runs along a creek that traverses the city. “There are groups that meet on Saturdays on the trail, and it is used more throughout the year. It is a great addition to our park system.”

As one of the most of local traveled trails, ensuring members of the community feel safe and protected is important as they enjoy the new natural feature.

The city’s information technology department is in charge of getting cameras placed along the trails, choosing their locations and handling service and maintenance. According to Shane Stovall, Paragould information technology director, a primary reason the city chose to install cameras along all the local trails was because the trails receive high foot traffic, especially in warmer weather.

“These improvements were necessary so that our police department and emergency medical services personnel could quickly and appropriately respond to distress or health incidents that may occur,” Stovall explained. “They also address issues of personal safety for someone who may want to go out and walk the trails alone but may not otherwise feel safe enough to do so.”

Funding for the 8 Mile Creek project was kept in-house, so improvements are budgeted and approved by the city council. The trail camera improvements were fairly low-budget and easy to install, which made additional funding unnecessary.

The cameras selected were based on the city’s specific need when it came to that trail. Stovall explained, “We chose cameras based on

ABOVE: A city of about 29,906, Paragould, Ark., has made investments in technology to increase safety. (Thomas R Machnitzki via Wiki Commons; https://creativecommons.org/licenses/ by/3.0/deed.en)

TOP PHOTO: With 8 Mile Creek trail being a popular, high traffic trail in Paragould, Ark., the addition of cameras was a necessary safety improvement. They assist the police department in quickly finding an individual in distress when needed and help those using the trail feel safer. (Photo provided by city of Paragould, Ark.)

the functionality we needed as well as being limited to what types of power sources we could utilize on our trails. The cameras we chose allow customizable recording settings, pan tilt and zoom functions, audio and motion detection. With the motion-activated and solarpowered lights, we can monitor for distress or incidents while our citizens use the public trail, providing them with peace of mind.”

The locations for the cameras were chosen based on the amount of traffic seen on certain portions of the trail as well as areas on the trail that were stated to be widely used and need greater safety

precautions. As Stovall described, they are “primarily where you can enter and exit the trail and areas where visibility is low from our main roads. With the affordability and pan tilt and zoom functions of the cameras, we have plans to expand our coverage so that most, if not all, of the trail can be viewed by the appropriate emergency personnel.”

As an added way to keep costs down and make installation easier, the municipality decided that the type of camera they went with would use the sun as its energy source.

“Because these cameras are solar-powered, the hardware and assembly time is greatly reduced compared to other setups for camera boxes,” Stovall stated. “Depending on the location of the camera and other environmental factors, once the camera box is ready to install, it can take between 10 and 30 minutes to have one up and operational.”

Paragould parks have more citywide planned improvements on the way. Kashak said the department is looking to use grant money to add extensions to several parks and trails, including 8 Mile Creek trail, which would be extended to 6 miles. Benches and an outdoor workout station are on the agenda as well.

Currently the trail connects three park systems, one high school and various businesses along the way. Once it is extended, the goal

The cameras chosen by the city are solarpowered and motion-activated, utilizing the best power source options out on the trail. This also makes for quick and easy installation along the trail. The cameras also came with pan tilt and zoom functions and customizable recording settings. (Photo provided by city of Paragould, Ark.)

One of the most important aspects of a project like trail cameras involves communication with the city council and other city departments. Testing out various brands and camera types is also important to find the best option to suit the particular need. (Photo provided by city of Paragould, Ark.)

is to have the trail also reach the city’s senior center and public library. The city is also hoping to connect the trail with Crowley Ridge State Park.

To cities looking for ways to make trails safer and thinking about installing cameras along trail systems, Stovall suggested, “Communication with your city council and other internal departments is crucial. When everyone is on the same page with the need and scope of the project, things go smoothly. Research the available manufacturers and companies that provide the types of cameras you’d like, and test out one or more brands or cameras before purchasing a large amount for your project. Lastly, look for ways to do things more efficiently and continue to incorporate those as you work on future projects.”

Not a handout, but a hand up for small business owners

By DANI MESSICK | The

Cities across the country take varied approaches to creating better lives for their citizens. Using Department of Housing and Urban Development and Community Development Block Grant funds, the city of Hickory, N.C. is trying to help low- and moderate-income individuals and families build small businesses.

As an entitlement city, Hickory receives funds from HUD yearly. Funds must be used specifically within its low- and moderateincomes communities.

“You want to try to use it to bring people into better situations in their lives,” explained Karen Dickerson, community development manager for the city.

With those funds, Hickory does housing repairs and street or park improvements in those targeted areas. They also use the money for two small business programs, the Microenterprise Grant Program and the Small Business Loan program.

The Microenterprise Grant, which began in 2016, provides funds to a small business with five or fewer people where the business owner’s income is below $53,900, which is 80% of the area median household income for a family of four.

“We get a lot of people who are individuals,” she said. “It’s there to try to really help them build their business. It gives them some extra capital. They may not be in a position where their business is large enough yet to maybe go to the bank and borrow money, but they have some expenses, and this will help them grow their business.” The maximum grant allotted is $4,000, based on need.

Municipal

ABOVE PHOTOS: Atriax, a local veteran-owned architecture firm, received Hickory’s vacant building revitalization grant for updates to a vacant building within the urban revitalization district. (Photo provided by the city of Hickory, N.C.)

For example, a local yarn shop wanted to build an online presence. One woman used grant funds to purchase inventory for her new wig shop. Another woman opened a business designing cloth fabric bags to go over walker handles or hospital beds to keep the patient’s things as they move.

“Giving her that capital allowed her to buy extra fabric and to do some marketing,” Dickerson explained. “Most of what we see is really business equipment, business inventory and marketing.”

In order to qualify for a grant, the business owner must meet income and business criteria. They also have to meet with a board and present their idea to its members, who then vote on the idea.

“The goal is to improve people’s lives, but a lot of that can come from a business aspect,” Dickerson explained.

The hope is that individuals will increase their income and be able to qualify for a bank loan or even the city’s small business loan program using CDBG funds.

“We had a gentleman who had gone through the Microenterprise Grant program to start a woodworking business; then he came back to us to do the small business loan program to buy a new CNC machine,” Dickerson recalled. “It’s nice to see somebody start with a really small business and grow it. They come back for the small business loan, and now they’re helping people.”

The small business loan program, which began in 2019, is a lowinterest loan of 4% for nine years to buy business equipment. If payments are made on time and other parameters are met, half of the loan is forgiven at the five-year mark.

“In that program, the owner of the business does not have to be low or moderate income, but they have to agree to hire someone

who is low or moderate income,” Dickerson said. “They don’t have to pay them low and moderate wages, though. They can pay them more; they just have to hire that person in the first place. It’s to try to better people’s lives.”

In addition, the city boasts urban revitalization guidelines and incentives including a vacant building forgivable loan. Buildings that are vacant for 12 months or more are eligible for a loan of $20,000 or 15% of eligible project costs, for repairs if the building is between 5,000 and 15,000 square feet, or up to $25,000 for larger buildings. Applicants must invest at least $35,000 in improvements on their own, including window replacements, facade improvements, HVAC, interior outfitting, door repair and more.

“Anything that’s going to take that vacant building and turn it into something that’s viable is what we’re looking for,” Dickerson said.

Other forgivable loans include a residential production program that helps to increase housing downtown by rehabbing upper floors for apartments. Another provides up to $8,000 for fire protection and insulation.

“The ultimate goal would be to have somebody maybe start with the Microenterprise Grant Program, move into the small business program, realize they’ve outgrown their space, and then come to us and say, ‘Hey I found a vacant building…’ for them to be able to use all aspects of it.”

“It’s fun to see people be able to expand their business or if they have a startup, start their new business and see them succeed,” Dickerson added.

“The goal is to improve people’s lives”

A business owner paired her grant with some additional funding to assist her in opening her own hair salon called High Noon Studios. (Photo provided by the city of Hickory, N.C.)

To list your upcoming conference or seminar in The Municipal at no charge, call (800) 733-4111, ext. 2307, or email the information to swright@the-papers.com.

MARCH

March 1-3 Operations & Maintenance & Safety Conference 2023 Orlando. Fla.

https://cleanpower.org/events/

March 7-9 Missouri Rural Water Association Annual Conference

St. Charles Convention Center, St. Charles, Mo. https://moruralwater.org/ annual-conference/

March 7-10 Michigan Parks Conference & Trade Show Lansing Center, Lansing, Mich. https://www.mparks.org/page/ Conference

March 7-10 North America’s Largest Work Truck Event Indianapolis, Ind.

https://www.worktruckweek. com/register

March 8-10 Idaho Rural Water Association Spring Conference

The Riverside Hotel, Boise, Idaho

https://www.idahoruralwater. com/

March 9-11 Wisconsin Firefighters Association Annual Convention

La Crosse Center, La Crosse, Wis.

https://www.wi-statefirefighters.org/convention-info. html

March 12-15 NJRPA Conference & Expo 2023

Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center, Atlantic City, N.J.

https://www.njrpa.org/

March 13-15 Utah Recreation & Parks Association Annual Conference

St. George, Utah

https://urpa.org/annualconference.html

March 13-15 Nebraska Rural Water Association Annual Conference

Younes Center, Kearney, Neb.

https://www.nerwa.org/annualconference

March 13-17 Michigan Chiefs of Police 2023 Spring Police Executive & New Chiefs School Okemos Conference Center, Okemos, Mich.

https://www. michiganpolicechiefs.org/

March 14-18 NUCA Annual ConExpo-Con/AGG 2023

Las Vegas, Nev.

https://www.nuca.com/ annualmeeting23

March 15-17 FLAGFA Spring 2023

Shores Resort & Spa, Daytona Beach Shores, Fla.

https://www.flagfa.org/future_ dates.php.

March 15-17 MRWA Annual Conference

Grand Traverse Resort, Acme, Mich.

https://www.mrwa.net/annualconference

March 19-20 Michigan Municipal League Capital Conference

Lansing Center, Lansing, Mich.

https://mmlfoundation.org

March 19-21 BOAL Annual Conference

Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino, Lake Charles, La.

https://www.lma.org/Shared_ Content/Events

March 19-22 PPE Symposium & Pre-Seminar HOTs Program Greenville, S.C. https://www.fieroonline.org/ upcoming-events

March 19-22 Alabama Rural Water Assocociation 45th Annual Technical Training Conference Montgomery, Ala. https://alruralwater.events/

March 19-22 Annual Pennsylvania Recreation & Park Society Conference

Hershey Lodge, Hershey, Pa. https://www. prpsconferenceandexpo.org/

March 22-24 MRWS 43rd Technical Conference & Exhibition

Heritage Inn, Great Falls, Mont. https://mrws.org/conferences/

March 23 Rhode Island League of Cities & Towns Annual Convention

Crowne Plaza at the Crossings, Warwick, R.I. https://www.rileague.org/100/ Annual-Convention

March 26-28 NLC

Congressional City Conference Marriott Marquis, Washington, D.C.

https://ccc.nlc.org/

March 26-29 MWEA & MO-AWWA Joint Annual Conference

Margaritaville at the Lake of the Osarks, Osage Beach, Mo.

https://awwa-mo.org/eventstraining/joint-conference.html

March 27-29 MRPA State Converence & Trade Show

Four Points by Sheraton Norwood, Norwood, Mass.

https://massrpa.org/annualconference/

March 27-30 IWCE Connecting Critical Communications 2023 Las Vegas Convention Center (North Hill), Las Vegas, Nev.

https://iwceexpo.com/

March 27-30 Iowa Parks

Recreation Association Conference

River Event Center, Davenport, Iowa

https://iapra.org/education/ iowa-conference/

March 27-30 Pennsylvania

Rural Water Association Annual Conference

Penn Stater Conference Center Hotel, State College, Pa.

https://www.prwa.com/annualconference

March 27-30 Carolina

Recycling Association 33rd Annual Conference & Trade Show

Wilmington Convention Center, Wilmington, N.C.

https://www.cra-recycle. org/2023conf/

March 28-30 Wildland Urban Interface 23 International Association of Fire Chiefs

Peppermill Resort, Reno, Nev.

https://www.iafc.org/events

Solutions-based telematics and fleet management for rural counties and cities

By SHERIE JONES | STEINBAUER Engineering LLC

There is no “one size fits all” for smaller cities and counties, with tight budgets, aging vehicles, manual recording and inflexible “off the shelf” solutions have historically put new technology out of reach. A Michigan company aims to change that.

STEINBAUER introduced the aftermarket world to engine “plug and play” electronics in 1996. Fast forward 25 years, and it has released another revolutionary product that builds on its strength in developing and manufacturing electronics for engine-driven assets. Their NexOpt product may be relatively new to the world of telematics and fleet management, but its fresh approach is a welcome change to the status quo.

When looking at the U.S. market, the company identified that rural counties and cities often were unable to afford the benefits of modern fleet management software and telematics systems. The hardware costs, ongoing fees and inflexible fleet system software made this technology unattainable for many.

Company founder and CEO Herbert Steinbauer wanted to highlight the urgent need to provide them solutions. “It was essential for

ABOVE: STEINBAUER specializes in the development of products that communicate with vehicle ECU and CANBus.

TOP PHOTO: With its solution-based approach NexOpt was successful in saving customers like the Austrian postal Service over $2 million a year in repair costs alone.

us that we looked at the market that seemed to have been forgotten and ask ourselves why?” Steinbauer said, “Rural cities and counties play a pivotal role in our communities, yet their access to the latest developments in telematics and fleet management software often leaves them lagging behind their larger counterparts We wanted to deliver a product that addressed their issues head-on.”

Rural counties and cities battle budgetary constraints and aging vehicles and equipment; they need to do more with less. It’s often a delicate balance between planning for the future by investing in new technology and keeping within budget.

“This frustration was echoed in call after call that I made. Their challenge was real and frustrating,” said U.S. Manager Sherie Jones. “It was confronting that they were being ignored and priced out of the market … Most I spoke with still used paper files and spreadsheets to record fleet and asset data,” Jones said.

STEINBAUER took a step back to evaluate its findings and decided a new approach was needed. Manual record keeping is inefficient, time-consuming and results in duplicated entries. They required a solution that could grow as budgets allowed while addressing the immediate identified customer needs. They decided to provide an overall solution, addressing cost and flexibility head-on.

Their NexOpt platform is app-based and offers additional modules for not only fleet management, but also workshop and parts management, human resources, KPI/Crystal reporting, inventory/warehouse, invoicing, fuel management, and driver logbooks, to name a few.

“NexOpt can be a complete ERP system, as an app-based concept customers can add apps as they need and their budget allows. Our approach is unique for the telematics and fleet management sector, which traditionally rely on third-party contractors to fulfill additional functionality. With NexOpt we do it all in one system and everything in-house,” Steinbauer said.

Using STEINBAUER’s experience and knowledge in vehicles and electronics to create dedicated solutions to fit customer needs, the NexOpt system is more than just data visualization; it can provide active vehicle solutions that eliminate the need for continual driver retraining. Features such as maximum speed, rpm, throttle response and start-stop function to combat idle times help customers save

thousands of dollars in costs each year. The company’s ethos is to focus on providing solutions not just data.

At its core, STEINBAUER is an engineering company. The combined experience and knowledge of working inside the framework of modern vehicles and how best to leverage, enhance and report this information for specific project requirements is its specialty and the driving force behind its new product, NexOpt.

“Our structure and background allows us to quickly react to customers’ project needs, by delivering technical solutions to vehicle-based problems. This philosophy and ability to provide solutions within time and under budget (without the need to contract third-party vendors) was a key factor for the Austrian Postal Service, choosing NexOpt over global telematics providers,” Steinbauer said. “It’s one thing to provide software, it’s another to understand vehicles and be able to deliver technical solutions for them.”

STEINBAUER’s NexOpt range of products are manufactured using 100% renewable energy. Visit NexOpt to learn more www.nexopt.com

All products are manufactured in house, including the telematics electronic.

STEINBAUER’s U.S. office is located in Cass County, Mich.

STEINBAUER products are developed and manufactured in-house by a team of highly qualified engineers at its state-of-the-art facility located near Linz in Austria.

Streamlight marks 50 years of manufacturing high-quality lighting

EAGLEVILLE, PA Streamlight Inc., a leading provider of highperformance lighting and weapon light/laser sighting devices, announced it is marking 50 years of manufacturing high-quality flashlight products. Since its founding in 1973, Streamlight has grown from a small company with a single product to a global manufacturer of a broad range of high-performance lights for law enforcement, military, firefighting, industrial, automotive, outdoor and DIY users.

A pioneer in the development of rechargeable flashlights, lanterns and LED lighting, the company is known for its expert engineering approach to creating lighting products that feature extraordinary brightness while also offering high value and durability.

“At Streamlight, we have always taken pride in designing and manufacturing lighting products that make our customers’ jobs easier, improve their productivity and keep them safe in trying conditions,” said Streamlight President and CEO Ray Sharrah. “As we celebrate 50 years of operation, we pledge to continue to leverage the latest advances in LED and battery technologies to produce ever brighter, more useful lighting tools, while still maintaining our same high-quality standards.”

Among the company’s most recent innovations, Sharrah said, are:

• USB rechargeable flashlights and headlamps that offer the convenience of charging on the go from a USB charging source.

• Multi-fuel flashlight “systems” that use a rechargeable battery but also can accept disposable batteries for alternate sources of power.

• New scene lights that are waterproof and offer powerful brightness in situations involving smoke or water.

• A series of compact work lights that fit in tight places, can be used hands-free or hanging, and rotate on their bodies for light wherever it’s needed.

• A growing line of weapon-mounted lights that fit a variety of long guns, shotguns and handguns.

Today, Streamlight designs, manufactures and markets a full line of flashlights, headlamps, weapons lighting, lanterns and accessories, which are sought after by military and first responders, automotive and industrial professionals, outdoor enthusiasts and other users in the U.S. and in over 40 countries worldwide. What began as a small operation with several employees has grown into a 240,000 square foot manufacturing and office space in Eagleville, Pa., with more than 350 employees. The company now holds over 525 U.S. and foreign patents, and over 135 U.S. and Foreign Trademarks.

AARP Accepting 2023 Community Challenge Grant Applications

WASHINGTON, D.C. AARP invites local eligible organizations and governments across the country to apply for the 2023 AARP Community Challenge grant program, now through March 15 at 5 p.m. Eastern. Grants fund quick-action projects that help communities become more livable in the long-term by improving public spaces, transportation, housing, civic engagement, diversity and inclusion, and more. Now in its seventh year, the program is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which supports the efforts of cities, towns, neighborhoods and rural areas to become great places to live for all residents, especially those age 50 and older.

“By 2030, one out of every five Americans will be 65 or older, but many communities may not be ready to support the needs of residents of all ages and abilities,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP executive vice president and chief advocacy and engagement officer. “The AARP Community Challenge grant program has demonstrated that by supporting local leaders and organizations’ efforts to strengthen their communities, we can improve the quality of life for the very young, the very old and everyone in between.”

• New this year, the program will provide capacity-building microgrants paired with additional resources, such as oneon-one coaching, webinars, cohort learning opportunities and more for improving walkability and starting or expanding a community garden.

• Also new this year, the Community Challenge will also offer demonstration grants. A portion will be focused on transportation improvements with funding support provided by Toyota Motor North America. Another portion of demonstration grants will focus on promoting greater awareness of the benefits of accessory dwelling units as a housing solution.

• AARP will also offer grants under a flagship opportunity to support projects that improve public places; transportation; housing; diversity, equity and inclusion; civic engagement; community health and economic empowerment; and new this year community resilience; and digital connections.

The Community Challenge is open to eligible nonprofit organizations and government entities. Other types of organizations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Grants can range from several hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to tens of thousands for larger projects.

The application deadline is 5 p.m. Eastern, March 15, 2023. All projects must be completed by Nov. 30, 2023. To submit an application and view past grantees, visit www.AARP.org/ CommunityChallenge.

News releases regarding personnel changes, other non-product-related company changes, association news and awards are printed as space allows. Priority will be given to advertisers and affiliates. Releases not printed in the magazine can be found online at www.themunicipal.com. Call (800) 733–4111, ext. 2307, or email swright@the-papers.com.

CMC invests in market expansion; enters the acquisition process of leading U.S. distributor All Access Equipment

CMC Group announced that it has entered the preliminary stage of an acquisition agreement with All Access Equipment, a U.S. leader in aerial lift equipment.

Part of CMC’s commitment to advance aerial lift platforms across multiple industries and further expand the company’s footing throughout global and U.S. markets the acquisition will serve as a strategic investment, combining its focus on research and manufacturing with pre-established distribution operations within the United States.

Based outside of Boston, Mass., and founded by the Polonski family in 2011 All Access Equipment is a well-known leader in sales, distribution and services for aerial platforms and related equipment throughout North America. In the aerial lift industry since 2003, the Polonski family’s prominent reputation and established success within the tree care industry, All Access became CMC’s partner of choice in 2011 and has grown to serve as a top supplier of CMC equipment to its wide network of dealers and customers.

All Access employs more than 60 people at its Wilmington, Mass., and Salem, N.H., facilities. With the acquisition of All Access, CMC intends to directly preside over the U.S. market and strengthen its consolidation process.

The Polonski family will retain management of All Access, ensuring business continuity and supporting CMC on its growth path.

“The transaction represents an important strategic step for the CMC group,” said Alessandro Mastrogiacomo, CEO of CMC Group. “This is also the starting point of an ambitious industrial plan shared with the Metrika fund.”

“We are incredibly proud and excited about the transaction, which represents the fruit of a solid and long-lasting successful partnership between All Access and CMC,” said Ryan Polonski, CEO of All Access Equipment.

New Signage Program Celebrates History Along the Great American Rail-Trail

WASHINGTON, D.C. A new program of Rails-to-Trails Conservancy and the William G. Pomeroy Foundation will draw attention to the history that is embedded in the route of the Great American Rail-Trail. A series of historic markers will be installed along the 3,700-mile route of the developing trail, one of RTC’s signature programs, between Washington, D.C., and Washington State.

“The Great American Rail-Trail connects people to the richness of the nation’s landscapes, cultures and heritage. This program is so meaningful because it will draw attention to the stories, people, places and events that are important to the communities the trail serves building deeper connections between people and places,” said Kevin Belle, RTC’s project manager for the Great American Rail-Trail. “There are fascinating stories and snapshots of history all along the Great American Rail-Trail, if you know where to look.”

Some of the historic features the marker program will showcase include a geological unconformity on the Ohio to Erie Trail in Wayne County, exposed when the railroad was built in 1864, and the only surviving double-arch bridge, built in 1913, on the historic WCF&N railroad line, which can be experienced today on the Cedar Valley Nature Trail in Black Hawk County, Iowa. The initial program includes the installation of 12 markers funded by the Pomeroy Foundation with the intention to expand the program over time. The marker program is emphasizing points of interest, local residents, architecture and other features that reveal the country’s dynamic, diverse and resilient history.

“We are thrilled to partner with Rails-to-Trails Conservancy on this exciting endeavor to mark historic points on the Great American Rail-Trail,” said Deryn Pomeroy, director of strategic initiatives at the William G. Pomeroy Foundation. “History abounds along the beautiful scenic pathways that comprise the Great American Rail-Trail. Our historic markers will enhance the recreational experience by giving people the opportunity to learn more about the places and spaces they traverse.”

The William G. Pomeroy Foundation’s historic marker grant programs help educate the public, encourage pride of place, promote historic tourism and preserve history. As the nation’s leading funder of historic roadside markers, the Pomeroy Foundation has awarded more than 2,000 grants for markers and bronze plaques in 48 states and Washington, D.C. The Foundation administers six marker grant programs in addition to several marker programs funded through partnerships nationwide. Learn more at wgpfoundation.org.

When complete, the Great American Rail-Trail, the nation’s first multiuse cross-country trail, has the potential to serve 50 million people living within 50 miles of the trail, as well as millions of additional visitors from around the world. Explore the Great American Rail-Trail at greatamericanrailtrail.org, and connect with the #GRTAmerican via social media @greatamericanrailtrail.

Photo from www.railstotrails.org

NTEA releases updated market data tool to help work truck industry companies evaluate sales potential

FARMINGTON HILLS, MICH. NTEA – The Association for the Work Truck Industry launched the sixth edition of U.S. Potential Sales of Work Trucks and Truck Equipment by Geographic Market. This resource enables commercial vehicle industry companies to calculate potential product sales and market share in 106 application markets in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and 383 metropolitan statistical areas. Data is based on the County Business Patterns publication from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Association’s Application Market Survey.

“This report is an essential tool for industry market planners,” said NTEA Senior Director of Market Data and Research Steve Latin-Kasper. “The data represents an actual model of work truck industry sales by application market and can be modified to represent segments relevant to individual companies.”

Specifically, it equips companies to:

• Define potential market size and share by sales dollars.

• Effectively allocate sales personnel.

• Measure sales performance across time.

• Develop effective market strategies.

This product, provided as a digital PDF for quick reference, also enables users to conduct “what if” scenarios with supplemental Microsoft Excel files containing the data. Companies can carry out market-planning exercises for their entire business or isolate an individual product line. A step-by-step

tutorial is included. This report is available to NTEA members for $99 and to nonmembers for $299. Visit ntea.com/potentialsales to learn more.

Parks and Recreation Provides Indoor Opportunities to Keep Moving This Winter

ASHBURN, VA — Eighty-four percent of U.S. adults look to indoor activities provided by park and recreation agencies in times of inclement weather, according to the latest National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Park Pulse poll.

When it comes to selecting indoor activities, top choices for U.S adults include running or walking, strength training, yoga or swimming. Local park and recreation agencies provide low-cost or no-cost opportunities year-round to stay active indoors, regardless of the conditions outside.

Key Findings:

• Eighty-four percent of U.S. adults look to indoor activities provided by park and recreation agencies to promote physical and mental wellbeing in times of inclement weather.

• Indoor tracks or treadmills, strength training, yoga or swimming are favorite indoor fitness activities.

“For many people, physical activity and mental health go hand in hand, so staying active through the winter is important,” said Kevin Roth, NRPA vice president of research, evaluation and technology. “Parks and recreation provides many opportunities to keep moving during less-than-ideal weather days.”

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Medical Lake and Soap Lake, Wash.

By RAY BALOGH | The Municipal

Two municipalities in Washington share nearly identical historical and legendary parallels that touch at several tangents.

Medical Lake and Soap Lake are both named for the respective eponymous bodies of water around which they once thrived. The water and mud in both lakes have long been reported to possess curative properties. And debate continues to swirl around the question whether those healing powers are actual or apocryphal.

The serene waters of Medical Lake are still said to have curative powers, though development and dredging have diluted the lake’s mineral content. (Photo provided by Medical Lake, Wash.)

Medical Lake

The town of about 5,000 residents, incorporated in 1890, is located 15 miles southwest of Spokane. Local Native American tribes believed the waters, mud and salts from the lake could heal their sick, and according to one historian, the tribes called the lake Skookum Limechin Chuch, or “strong medicine water,” and “congregated in great numbers around its shores, bringing the afflicted from all directions.”

Another researcher found that the Indians would “place the sick on a bed above hot stones, then by throwing water from the lake on the stones, they caused the steam to engulf the sick, thereby opening the pores to allow the sickness to leave the body.” For those too ill to make the trek to the lake, tribe members would make a powder from the salt and take it back for personal ministration.

The first white settlers, Andrew Lefevre and Stanley Hallett, arrived in the 1870s and began to market the salts for medicinal purposes. Lefevre claimed that by bathing in the lake, he was “almost completely cured” of rheumatism.

Hallett, a British entrepreneur, developed a salt and soap industry, and during the next decade, several commercial bathhouses were established. Resort hotels soon followed along the lakeshore, and in 1891, the state constructed Eastern State Hospital, bestowing further economy boom to the town.

Medical Lake continued to grow until the 1920s, when the lake declined in popularity among increasingly skeptical tourists. Over the decades, the mineral deposits had been depleted and lakeside development caused unsightly algae blooms. Further, the introduction of the automobile made other recreation spots more accessible.

A wooden sign encapsulates the history of Soap Lake, which holds the distinction of having the most mineral-diverse water in the world.

The town stagnated until the 1940s when the federal government established Fairchild Air Force Base to support the military during World War II. The hospital and military base constituted the mainstay of the Medical Lake’s economy, and the town began restoring the lake’s health with a new sewer system in 1964. The lake again supports fishing and bathing and continues as a steady attraction for summertime recreation.

Soap Lake

Soap Lake is a third class city situated between Seattle and Spokane. Its lake is internationally renowned for the unique composition of minerals in its waters and mud. In fact, scientific studies have shown Soap Lake to have the most diverse mineral content of any body of water on the planet.

The lake’s benefits are accessed through two methods: mud baths and soaking. The mud bath suggestion is to apply mud over one’s body and lie in the sun to dry, allowing the mud to extract moisture, oils and toxins through the skin. Soaking in the water reportedly opens capillaries and increases circulation.

The waters are very alkaline, with a pH of 10.0, with the highest mineral concentrate consisting of sulfate, carbonate, bicarbonate, sodium and chloride. The lake’s depths are divided into two strata of water and mud that have never mixed in its history.

Native Americans were the first to benefit from the lake, which they called Smokiam, or “healing waters,” and Let-to-to-weints, or “healing water springs.”

Soap Lake boasts a current population of about 1,700 residents, down from its peak of 2,580 in 1955. The trajectory of popularity of Soap Lake approximates that of Medical Lake, for many of the same reasons. During the first half of the 20th century, a number of sanitariums operated on the lake’s shores. During the Great Depression, when the Grand Coulee Dam was completed, the town, located in a desert climate, burgeoned from the resulting irrigation canals. After several decades, however, those same canals diluted the mineral properties of the lake and the tourist trade dwindled.

Soap Lake is currently attempting to revive tourism by again highlighting the curative properties of the lake, along with its natural and relaxing beauty, promoting paddleboating, kayaking and lounging on the beach. No motorized watercraft are allowed on the lake.

(Photo provided by Soap Lake, Wash.)

Best small college towns in America

So much goes into the decision of where to attend college. Among the considerations is where the student thinks he or she will feel comfortable: at a college in a small town, or at a university in a big city?

To help would-be students with their decision, last year the website Preply reviewed stacks of statistics regarding crime, affordability and other factors that make a difference for someone choosing to spend a

1. Ann Arbor, Mich.

2. St. Charles, Mo.

3. Newark, Del.

4. La Crosse, Wis.

5. Grand Forks, N.D.

few years in a particular city while they pursue their degree. Smaller towns are often safer and more affordable than big cities, the website concluded, and often the relationship between the school and the rest of the population is closer.

The Best Small College Towns in America are:

6. Rochester, Minn.

7. Clemson, S.C.

8. West Lafayette, Ind.

9. Asheville, N.C.

10. Auburn, Ala.

Source: https://preply.com/en/blog/best-small-college-towns/?fbclid=IwAR3RAQosS9PDBRBbXVCwudcnYOSJA0S0ud3zsmbA_nT5muw6DbWvhcd__FE)