The Winslow City Council hosted a community event last Saturday, bringing elected officials closer to the people they serve. “Coffee with the Council” took place at Sacred Heart Park in Southside, where city council members and Mayor Birdie Cano gathered to share coffee and donuts with the public. This informal gathering provided citizens with an opportunity to engage with their elected officials in a more relaxed setting while still addressing important issues. However, Peter Cake, was notably absent from the event.
Mayor Birdie Cano said the council wanted to host the event in Southside to spotlight the specific concerns of residents in that neighborhood. During the event, she engaged with attendees, discussing issues such as the persistent alleyway floods in Southside that have occasionally resulted in water entering people’s homes. Additionally, she found that many residents raised questions about the city’s codes and potential violations by fellow citizens.
Councilmember Samantha Crisp shared her discussion with a concerned citizen named Alice Kinkman, who has been vocal about the city’s ongoing issue with stray animals. Crisp said she and Kinkman engaged in a productive conversation aimed at finding practical solutions to tackle this pressing issue. Councilmember Crisp expressed gratitude for Kinkman’s input, recognizing her role in making the city a better place for all its residents.
Councilmember Darcey McKee also actively engaged with residents during the event, focusing on their concerns regarding the proposed 1,200-acre development deal. This development project has been a significant topic of discussion in the city for the past year, and residents had several concerns and questions about its impact on the community. McKee ensured that these concerns were heard and promised to continue working towards a solution that aligns with the best interests of Winslow’s residents.
Events like these allow residents to directly engage with their elected officials to speak about the most pressing issues for them. This event doesn’t have the same three-minute time limit that residents must follow, allowing for a more extended and meaningful dialogue that benefits both sides in understanding each other better. The event had a good turnout from residents, and the council was able to gather valuable feedback that they can use to better serve the community.
