Mayor’s Column
April
By Mayor Anne Gerwig
Spring is the season of new beginnings. We are kicking off this month in high gear, as we prepare for the 2017-2018 Budget. We are completing our budget and will soon focus on the capital plan. We will present a balanced budget that continues to keep Wellington a great hometown.
This month, Wellington’s Council joins staff for the 2017 Directions Workshop. The workshop takes place at Village Hall, March 31st and April 1st. Directions is where Council sets our goals for the upcoming year and beyond. Council will cover a broad range of topics, including redevelopment and sustainability within the Village, community improvement strategies, and planning for the impacts of growth outside of the Village. The Directions process is collaborative and is designed to foster an informed discussion that allows us to make rational and disciplined decisions for the community.
Several more of our major capital projects included in the current budget are underway. We are gearing up for some other major capital projects with construction anticipated to start mid-year. The two turn lane projects at the Big Blue / Birkdale and the Big Blue / Wiltshire intersections are being surveyed and designed with construction scheduled to start in June 2017. Stay up-to-date with our social media and website updates for these major projects.
If you enjoy the Wellington Green Market, or if you haven’t had a chance to experience it yet, you still have a few weeks left to stop by. The Green Market runs through April 29th, and then returns again in October. The market opens at 9 am every Saturday this month at the Amphitheater.
This year’s Wellington Kids Triathlon takes place April 2nd. Cheer your kids on as they swim, bike and run in this exciting and challenging endurance event. The triathlon takes place on Sunday, April 2nd, beginning at the Wellington Aquatics Complex. The event serves as a way for children born between 2003 and 2013 to experience a multi-sport endurance event in a safe, positive environment. We want to encourage kids to be active, which is so important for their health and development, and which will help them embrace a healthy lifestyle.
On Saturday, April 15th, at 10 am, we’ll be holding our Annual Egg Hunt at Village Park. Children always have a great time running around searching for the eggs, and it’s a great way to put a big smile on their faces, so bring them out to share in the fun!
Join us Sunday, April 23rd starting at 4:00 pm at the Wellington Amphitheater as we celebrate Earth Day and raise awareness for environmental protection. During this free event, you will learn about recycling, composting, and respecting the earth. The celebration features live music, local vendors showcasing earth friendly products, free samples, and giveaways. We will recognize volunteers over the past year for their steadfast commitment to keep our Village green. In doing our part, this year we will plant a Paradise Tree in honor of Arbor Day.
In terms of the environment, the Village takes immense pride in its parks, wetlands, and environmental preserves. We recognize the importance of preserving all of nature’s habitats. We must continue to ensure that we protect the environment and the rural charm of our Village. As we look towards the future, this new Council will continue to focus on the principles of preservation, stewardship, and accountability. Our primary goal is always to deliver for our residents.
A drive around our wonderful Village will reveal great neighborhoods, great schools, and outstanding parks. As your Mayor, I work to ensure that we sustain and strengthen these qualities.
On behalf of the Council, I want to wish our residents a happy Passover, Good Friday, and Easter. Have a great month, and I look forward to seeing you at our events!