BY WALT SCHAEFER
The Cincinnati Enquirer
ST. BERNARD -- City council's discussion this week ranged from tot lots to the city's tax base, as a committee developing the community's first master plan since 1963 listened to residents.
The committee of 15 residents, business owners and public officials is working on the plan with the Hamilton County Regional Planning Commission. Another committee meeting will be scheduled in September with a final draft completed in October, Service Director Ray Schrand said.
"One basic focus was on housing in general -- from home maintenance to new home development," he said. "Another involves community facilities -- parks and playgrounds. We have enough parks, but we want to look at what is available in the parks and upgrade them to meet resident needs -- such things as tot lots.
"Another discussion involved community aesthetics -- particularly our city's gateways -- and ways we can make them more attractive," he said. "Of course, there was parking and traffic, but I think that issue is everywhere, and no real solutions were raised on those issues. There are concerns, but I see little that can be done."
Mr. Schrand said about 25 citizens attended the City Hall meeting to voice opinions and offer suggestions.
Councilwoman Kathie Rickenbaugh, a committee member, said another key issue raised involved studying and developing ways to maintain the city's industrial tax base. "It was one of the biggest concerns of our citizens during the brainstorming session" of the meeting.
Another big concern that came up was revitalizing the Vine Street business district, she said.
John Schwallie, owner of a Vine Street tax service and a committee member representing the business community, said the meeting did a good job of identifying needs but that "solutions have not been reached.
"As far as St. Bernardians are concerned, they probably don't see very much need (for the master plan). They look at (the city) all of the time. But as far as for outsiders coming through and attracting business to come here, it's a needed study. Some of the things are improving traffic flow and and upgrading the appearance and aesthetics along our main street," he said.
The final draft of the plan will be presented to residents and city council, which must approve it. The plan will provide a 20-year wish list for the city and help guide future government leaders.
