REDWOOD FARM CIVIC LEAGUE NEWSLETTER

October, 2002

Greetings Neighbors!

As temperatures and leaves start to fall, thoughts turn to the holidays of the season. Our revived Halloween Parade was so well received last year, we eagerly anticipate another great turnout. All the details are attached -- Come see a charming parade!

Unfortunately, just like our neighbors in Middle Plantation the previous week, our entrance sign has been completely destroyed by vandals. A committee chaired by Jan Bradley has been researching new signage options and will present proposals at our next Civic League meeting, this Monday, November 4, 7:00 pm at Lynnhaven United Methodist Church.

Our dues drive has reached 63% participation with 47 of 75 homes paid. If you haven’t already, please remit your 2002 dues to 1288 Southfield Place ($25 per household). We still have a few copies of last year’s directory and will make them available at the civic league meeting. The directory will be updated in November for distribution at the annual Holiday Party in December.

Public Utilities representative Mike McCarthy has submitted answers to two questions posed at the last civic league meeting regarding the sewer installation which is scheduled to begin next month:

QUESTION: Why can’t we receive discounted rates for our sewer DFU (Drainage Fixture Unit) fees?
ANSWER: 1975 was the last year for locked in (reduced rate) DFU fees for sanitary sewer. In 1986, the city council provided some reduced fees incentives for water hookup only. Since that time, no other reduced rates have been offered. Fees have increased over time to keep up with inflation. Our current rates of $56 per DFU have been in effect since 1998.
QUESTION: Although our neighborhood is fine, why can’t we get storm sewers and curb and gutter in the rest of Little Neck Point?
ANSWER: The City’s Public Works Department is currently reviewing the drainage issues in the neighborhood and would like feedback from the residents to help identify critical areas. A mass curb and gutter installation project will not likely take place since it would greatly alter the characteristics of the neighborhood. A project of this type would impact the large, mature trees along side the roadways. Our feeling is that most residents would be opposed to destroying the trees for the sake of curb and gutter. However, specific areas in need of relief might be served with some minor drainage improvements. Please have concerned residents let me know so that I can pass these issues on to the appropriate department (427-8478).