New street sign, snowball stand approved

There aren't enough accidents at the intersection of Ohio and Ontario streets in Havre de Grace for the state to justify "boxing" the area.

That's what City Councilman James Miller reported at Tuesday's city council meeting. His intent was to get the state to "box" the intersection – line it in a way – so drivers wouldn't block it and impede the flow of traffic.

The response from the State Highway Administration, Miller said, was that there was not an appropriate number of accidents there. They did, however, agree to put up a new street sign on Ontario Street to identify the intersection in case someone is involved in an accident and needs to call for help, according to Miller.

Council members also approved a license for The Snowball Experience to operate throughout the summer at Hutchins Park, primarily on weekends. A Greater Faith Community Jamboree, sponsored by the Greater Faith Christian Center, was also approved for Sept. 3, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Director of Finance George DeHority reported that city property and other tax bills were sent out last week and Deputy Director of Public Works Bill Reeder said the department had started smoke testing sewer lines in the city to see where any leaks are.

In addition to thanking several people, Police Chief Teresa Walter also said the department is starting a traffic enforcement initiative because August is typically the month the most driving fatalities.

Most of the traffic enforcement team, she said, will be focused on speeding, aggressive drivers, DUIs and drivers without seatbelts.

A new trash and recycling schedule will be implemented on Aug. 1 and Councilman Fred Cullum briefly outlined the changes. Garbage will be picked up on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, with recycling picked up on Thursdays.

Wednesday is also appliances and metal pick-up, although people interested would need to contact the department of public works by Tuesday at 2 p.m. to get on the list, he said.

Friday is yard waste collection day.

The changes reflect a decision to have recycling and trash picked up on different days because when they were both put out, sometimes the trash collectors would pick up recycling materials as well.

All council members wore tropical shirts Tuesday, which Council President Bill Martin referred to as a "light jest."