• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • About Us
  • Videos
    • Featured Video
    • Foodie Friday
    • Monthly ReCap
  • Online E-Editions
    • This Week’s E-Editions
    • 2022
    • 2021
    • 2020
    • 2019
    • 2018
    • 2017
    • 2016
    • 2015
    • 2014
  • Social Media
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Instagram
  • Advertising
  • Local Jobs
  • Puzzles & Games
  • Circulation Request

The Laker/Lutz News

  • Home
  • News
    • Land O’ Lakes
    • Lutz
    • Wesley Chapel/New Tampa
    • Zephyrhills/East Pasco
    • Business Digest
    • Senior Parks
    • Nature Notes
    • Featured Stories
    • Photos of the Week
    • Reasons To Smile
  • Sports
    • Land O’ Lakes
    • Lutz
    • Wesley Chapel/New Tampa
    • Zephyrhills and East Pasco
    • Check This Out
  • Education
  • Pets/Wildlife
  • Health
    • Health Events
    • Health News
  • What’s Happening
  • Sponsored Content
    • Closer Look
  • Homes
  • Obits
  • Public Notices

Gaddis Avenue

Complaints arise about cemetery upkeep

September 29, 2020 By Kevin Weiss

When Mario Jenkins went to visit his mother’s grave at the Dade City Cemetery, he discovered that some of the decorations — including a memorial cross — had been destroyed and had to be replaced.

He recently took his concerns about the shoddy conditions of the grounds at the cemetery, at 38161 Martin Luther King Blvd., to city officials and members of the Dade City Commission.

“Every time I go there, I seem to be disappointed,” Jenkins said. “The upkeep on the grounds is very poor.”

He added, “I have a landscaping business, and if I were to treat any of my customer’s yards like that cemetery, I would be out of a job, and I’d have to pay for quite a few items that are damaged along the way.”

Jenkins had aired his concerns with city officials and then presented them at the Dade City Commission meeting.

Dade City Mayor Camille Hernandez said Jenkins’ comments “definitely got our attention” and said city staff had been directed to facilitate an action plan for the cemetery.

Some cleanup has been completed, Hernandez said, “but by no means do we consider that a done deal. This is our community, and we want to make sure that we are hearing your needs and moving forward.”

Dade City Manager Leslie Porter said short-term and long-term strategies are being developed, with the help of interim public works director Bryan Holmes. The plans include additional regular deep cleaning and perhaps adding more manpower to assist the city’s full-time groundskeeper.

“We did fall short,” Porter said of cemetery conditions. “I would like to say, though, that I don’t think it’s a reflection of the individual we had dedicated out there to the upkeep.”

The cemetery is within the Mickens-Harper community, which generally borders Irvin Avenue and Martin Luther King Boulevard, and stretches from First Street to Taylor Avenue, among other areas.

During the Sept. 10 commission meeting, residents from the Washington Heights neighborhood complained about flooded streets and stormwater deficiencies; poor road and sidewalk conditions; and, a general lack of code enforcement presence to address trash, debris and parking issues involving a slew of nearby rental properties.

That community is generally bordered by Gaddis Avenue and Whitehouse Avenue, and includes 10th, 11th and 12th streets, among other areas.

The city has begun to take action. For instance, the Dade City Police Department has stepped up with additional patrols and enhanced its community policing efforts in the area.

Additionally, code enforcement has put in requirements that shorten the turnaround time for repeat offenders to resolve blight.

In other city action:

  • Commissioners approved a $17.7 million budget for fiscal year 2020-2021, based on a 7.14 millage rate.
  • Commissioners approved a $20,000 bid (plus disposal costs) from Sanford-based Hydro International Settled Solids Management for tank cleaning services at the city’s wastewater treatment plant. The cleaning service will be performed while the tank stays in operation and will not require draining or removing from service, officials say. The work is expected to increase the facility’s effectiveness and efficiency, and increase the lifespan of its mechanical equipment.

Published September 30, 2020

Dade City budget is decreasing in 2020-2021

September 15, 2020 By Kevin Weiss

The Dade City Commission has adopted the city’s tentative budget for next year, and it represents an 8.2% decrease from this year’s budget.

Commissioners had the first reading of the ordinance and first hearing on the proposed $17,710,000 budget in a virtual meeting on Sept. 10. Commissioners gave first-round approval and will have a second reading and final public hearing before the new budget takes effect on Oct. 1.

Dade City Commissioners on Sept. 10 approved a $17,710,000 budget for fiscal year 2020-2021, based on a 7.14 millage rate. It represents a decrease of about $1.58 million, or 8.2% from current budget.

The 2020-2021 budget represents a decrease of $1,576,935 from this year’s budget.

The proposed budget is based on an approved 7.14 millage rate, accessed on the taxable value of property within the city.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Capital outlay and debt service represents about 44% of the budget, anticipated to total $7,825,733. Major capital projects include construction of the Dade Oaks retention pond; Howard Avenue stormwater improvements; installation of the Tank Hill well, storage tower and booster station; Morningside Drive design, acquisition and construction project; construction of the visitors information center; and other various utility, sidewalk and road improvements projects.
  • Personnel costs represent about a third of the budget, totaling $5,807,341 — and an increase of $144,221 from the current budget. That’s a result of funding four new positions, increased health care and workers compensation premiums, 3% cost of living adjustments, years of service increases, reorganization within the police department, increased wages and benefits through the negotiation of the police union contract, and associated retirement.
  • Operating costs make up about 23% of the budget, at $4,076,925. Changes include funding for a website revision, conversion from a part-time IT consultant to a full-time IT manager (staff position), projected increases in solid waste collections, and additions to a utility renewal and replacement fund.

The city organized six budget workshops throughout July, August and September to hammer out the fine details, with the help of new interim finance director Andrew Laflin.

Newly elected Commissioner Knute Nathe said he was “very proud” the town was able to pass the budget without having to raise taxes on residents — maintaining a millage rate that’s been in place the past several years.

Washington Heights residents raise community concerns
Several Washington Heights residents weighed in during the public comment period of the virtual meeting — expressing their disappointment with city leadership, asserting their local neighborhood and subdivision has been neglected in funding and resources.

The Washington Heights community is generally bordered by Gaddis Avenue and Whitehouse Avenue, and includes 10th, 11th and 12th streets, among other areas.

More than a handful of residents spoke up, complaining of flooded streets and stormwater deficiencies; poor road and sidewalk conditions; and, a general lack of code enforcement presence to address trash, debris and parking issues of a slew of nearby rental properties.

Dade City Mayor Camille Hernandez (Courtesy of City of Dade City)

Harriett Craig, who’s lived on 10th Street since 1979, called out commissioners for appropriating “millions and millions of dollars” toward park improvements and other projects in other parts of the city, but overlooking various infrastructure issues of her local neighborhood.

“The city commissioners are here to serve the entire city, not certain parts of it,” Craig said. “I, as a resident of the City of Dade City, feel like our voices are mute when it comes down to expressing what our needs are in the city,”

She continued her point: “If Howard Avenue can be upgraded so homes won’t be flooded, why can’t 10th Street get the same treatment? I don’t understand it.”

Anita Blake, who lives in Oakview Circle adjacent to Washington Heights, also levied harsh words to commissioners: “We can’t even get the road paved, we can’t get the ditches paved. At some point, it’s like, why are we even paying taxes?”

Eunice Penix, a former longtime commissioner who lives on Wilson Street, also shared her dismay with the community seemingly being brushed aside: “I’m kind of upset. It seems to me we have selective code enforcement. …We shouldn’t have to call the city every time something needs to be done when we have workers all over the city riding and looking; they should look to see what’s wrong with the grounds.”

In response to all that, Dade City Manager Leslie Porter told residents she’ll collaborate with department heads to inspect the area and formulate an action plan in coming weeks.

“We care about all the communities in the city,” said Porter, “and it’s good for us to know when there is a problem, if there’s somewhere where we may be falling short, so I do thank you all for being here and letting us know what your concerns are.”

Dade City Mayor Camille Hernandez assured Washington Heights will be met with a detailed response and action from city staff, saying she is “very, very disturbed” by residents feeling neglected.

“This is embarrassing, and it should not be the case,” Hernandez said. “It’s our town, everyone pays the same taxes and should be treated the same, so we expect a plan.”

In other city business and happenings:

• Dade City Clerk Angelia Guy has been selected to serve on the Florida League of Cities’ legislative policy committee

• A neighborhood community cleanup is scheduled for Sept. 19 at 8 a.m., at Naomi Jones Park, 38122 Martin Luther King Blvd. Volunteers can register at KeepPascoBeautiful.org/coastal-cleanup

• The Mickens Field concession stand/restrooms building is progressing, as the 672-square-foot structure is vertical and bearing a roof. The $89,750 project, at 14318 Canal St., is on track to be complete by the end of October.

Published September 16, 2020

Primary Sidebar

A Conversation with Lutz Filmmaker, Alexis Yahre

Search

Sponsored Content

A Guide for Summer Camps in Pasco County 

May 20, 2022 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Summer break is quickly approaching and organizations throughout Pasco County are offering camps for children of all … [Read More...] about A Guide for Summer Camps in Pasco County 

Avalon Applauds Kids Helping Kids Pasco County 

May 10, 2022 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Congratulations to Kids Helping Kids Pasco County for being applauded by Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. The nonprofit … [Read More...] about Avalon Applauds Kids Helping Kids Pasco County 

More Posts from this Category

What’s Happening

05/21/2022 – Folk Art Festival

Carrollwood Village will host a Food & Folk Art Festival on May 21 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., at the Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa. The outdoor event will feature food trucks, storytelling and puppetry with Windell Campbell (11 a.m.), a folk dance performance with Grupo Folkloric Mahetzi (noon), and live music with Liam Bauman (1:15 p.m.), Rebekah Pulley (2:45 p.m.), His Hem (4:15 p.m.) and Ari Chi (5:45 p.m.) Guests can bring lawn chairs and sun umbrellas. Artisan vendors will be available, and guests will be invited to participate in a community art project. Admission is free. For information, visit CarrollwoodCenter.org. … [Read More...] about 05/21/2022 – Folk Art Festival

05/21/2022 – Founders Day Festival-CANCELLED

Main Street Zephyrhills will present the annual Founders Day Festival on May 21 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. The “From Founders to Future” event will feature a parade (7 p.m.) and contest, food, kids zone, vendors, a historic ghost tour, and entertainment. Guests can dress in any decade from the 1880s to futuristic concepts, as the festival pays homage to the people who built the town, through the years. For information, visit MainStreetZephyrhills.org. … [Read More...] about 05/21/2022 – Founders Day Festival-CANCELLED

05/21/2022 – Free vaccines/microchips

Pasco County Animal Services will team up with Petco Love for a free, drive-thru vaccine and microchip event on May 21 from 9 a.m. to noon, at Lokey Subaru of Port Richey, 11613 U.S. 19. Participants can bring up to three pets per family. Dogs must be leashed and cats must remain in carriers, while everyone stays in the vehicle. Those participating should check their pets’ vet record to determine what services are needed. Rabies vaccines require the pet owner to purchase a county pet license. Space is limited, so advance registration is required, online at bit.ly/3OrUR1h. … [Read More...] about 05/21/2022 – Free vaccines/microchips

05/21/2022 – Garden Club

The New River Garden Club will meet on May 21 at 10:30 a.m., at the New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel. The meeting will be followed by an outdoor garden presentation on mosquito control. A separate registration is required for the meeting and the presentation, online at PascoLibraries.org. For information, call 813-788-6375. … [Read More...] about 05/21/2022 – Garden Club

05/21/2022 – Train show & sale

Regal Railways will host a Toy Train, Toy Show & Sale on May 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Hernando Fairgrounds, 6436 Broad St., in Brooksville. There will be more than 60 vendors, along with model trains, toys, die cast cars and more. There also will be a running train layout. Admission is $5 for adults. Kids ages 12 and younger are free. Guests can prepay at RegalRailways.com. … [Read More...] about 05/21/2022 – Train show & sale

05/21/2022 – Veterans Resource Fair

Congressman Gus Bilirakis will host the 16th annual Veterans Resource Fair on May 21 from 10 a.m. to noon, at the New Port Richey Elks Lodge, 7201 Congress St. Resources will include: health care, veterans claim services, education, benefits, job placement/employment services, and housing/social services. For information, call Bilirakis’ office at 727-232-2921. … [Read More...] about 05/21/2022 – Veterans Resource Fair

More of What's Happening

Follow us on Twitter

The Laker/Lutz NewsFollow

Home for all your local news in Land O' Lakes, Lutz, New Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills and Dade City.

The Laker/Lutz News
LakerLutzNewsThe Laker/Lutz News@LakerLutzNews·
4h

Go Pasco — Pasco County’s public bus service — is planning to use technology to enable riders to get up-to-date information to track buses in real time https://buff.ly/3aafXS6

Reply on Twitter 1528073180073574404Retweet on Twitter 1528073180073574404Like on Twitter 15280731800735744041Twitter 1528073180073574404
LakerLutzNewsThe Laker/Lutz News@LakerLutzNews·
7h

What an AMAZING transformation! 💫 The Block is housed in a historic building that was an auto dealership in the 1920s. Now, its a venue space, a brewhouse, a restaurant, a CrossFit gym and more ---> https://buff.ly/3PsLvTo

3
Reply on Twitter 1528027975391772673Retweet on Twitter 15280279753917726731Like on Twitter 1528027975391772673Twitter 1528027975391772673
LakerLutzNewsThe Laker/Lutz News@LakerLutzNews·
20 May

‘I don’t think there is anybody in the room that is not aware that the property market in Florida is just in utter chaos,’ – School board member Allen Altman. https://buff.ly/3ln5W6l

Reply on Twitter 1527741073874878465Retweet on Twitter 1527741073874878465Like on Twitter 1527741073874878465Twitter 1527741073874878465
Load More...

Archives

 

 

Where to pick up The Laker and Lutz News

Copyright © 2022 Community News Publications Inc.

    Doc