Continuous Flow Intersection Construction

APRIL 2015
T h e Vo i c e o f A n d e r s o n To w n s h i p
Continuous Flow Intersection Construction:
Coming to an Intersection Near You
Beechmont Ave
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3
2
Mile
Roa
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P A G E 3
Anderson Seeks
Solutions on Racino
Payment
Five
Whether you are an Anderson Township newcomer,
or your family has called the township home for
generations, the topic of Beechmont and Five Mile is
often a center of conversation.
This summer, residents will see the beginning of
construction an innovative transportation project
called a Continuous Flow Intersection (CFI), which
should alleviate some of the most common complaints
about the Beechmont-Five Mile intersection.
Construction should wind up in fall of 2016.
As many know, the intersection is not only the
busiest in Anderson Township, but one of the most
heavily travelled locations in Greater Cincinnati,
seeing nearly 60,000 cars per day.
Unfortunately, it also has been one of the most
dangerous intersections as well, as evidenced both in
accident statistics and crash rates (the ratio of accidents
to traffic volume). It is often the most congested
township intersection. Although the crossroads is at
the geographic center of our community and in close
proximity to hundreds of residences, pedestrians can
only traverse one side of the intersection.
Nearly 10 years ago the Hamilton County Engineer’s
Office explored the feasibility of introducing what was
then a new engineering concept, a Continuous Flow
Intersection, at this location. Research indicated this
innovation would help reduce delay by more than
half. It also would reduce the most serious types of
accidents caused by left-turning vehicles and enable
the intersection to accommodate pedestrians.
“The township, the county and the Ohio
Department of Transportation have worked to
redesign the intersection, create additional service
drives to ensure access to surrounding properties and
secure funding for the project,” noted Steve Sievers,
assistant administrator for operations.
inside
1
CONTINUOUS FLOW
INTERSECTION
1. Line up in left lane
2. Drive across oncoming
traffic which is stopped
to far left lane after
first signal turns green
3. Finish left turn when
second signal turns green
New traffic pattern on both sides of Five Mile Road
approaching Beechmont Avenue.
Considerable study has been conducted over the
years to improve this intersection, and the engineers
have demonstrated that the CFI will help reduce
congestion and improve safety, while having the least
impact on the surrounding property owners,” noted
Trustee President Russ Jackson. This project will
complement the ongoing private investment occurring
in the Beechmont corridor and prepare this key
intersection for additional economic growth, he said.
The CFI will require a traffic pattern change and
“We want residents to be prepared,” noted Sievers.
Answers to some of the more common CFI questions
appear on page 4.
For more information on the CFI, including a short
informational video and plans for the intersection,
visit AndersonTownship.org, and search “Continuous
Flow Intersection.”
PA G E 5
Neighborhood
Watch Hits
Milestone
PA G E S 8 - 9
Recycling News for
Your Spring Cleanup
PA G E 1 3 - 1 7
Connect with
Anderson Events
Board of Township
Trustees
Dreaming of Spring Home Projects?
Check with Township before You Start
You may have spent the winter in your cozy armchair dreaming of
a swimming pool project or a much-needed addition to your home.
Russell L. Jackson, Jr.
President
Joshua S. Gerth
First Vice President
Before you implement your home plan,
remember that some projects need prior
approval through Anderson’s Planning and
Zoning Department.
The department’s approval process is easy
and usually takes about one or two days.
Additionally, for added convenience the
department now takes credit cards for
zoning certificate payment processing.
Zoning certificates cost between $20-$100
for residential construction.
Paul Drury, director of Planning and Zoning,
notes that decks, pools, storage sheds or fences
need prior zoning approval. Bring two copies
of a site plan to Anderson Center showing the
structure, including the size and dimensions
from the property lines. Fencing companies can
often provide consumers with a sketch and their
estimates can be used by the township to process
the application.
Commonly Asked Questions
about Zoning Issues:
Where can I build a pool?
Andrew S. Pappas
Second Vice President
Above-ground or in-ground swimming pools are
only permitted in the rear yard, and size depends
on your property. A fence will be required for all
in-ground pools, and may be necessary for your
above-ground pool depending on its height.
Can I have a garage and a shed?
The township’s Zoning Resolution does not limit
the number of accessory structures on a property,
but rather their size. Often people want to build
a shed to house lawn equipment, and later decide
on installing a pool or detached garage. Also, check
with your homeowner’s association regarding
specific privately enforced neighborhood
covenants and restrictions.
What about outdoor living areas?
Many property owners in the township are investing
in their outdoor spaces by creating covered patios
with grills, sinks, and entertainment. These are
treated as accessory structures and will require review
through the Planning and Zoning Department.
For questions, contact the Planning and
Zoning Department at 688-8400.
Streets Announced for Summer Rehab Work
Planned street rehabilitation projects soon will begin in Anderson Township.
The streets listed below are scheduled for paving this year:
• Wismar from Eastdale to cul-de-sac
• Pickwick from Asbury Hills Drive to cul-de-sac
• Kingswood from Eastdale to cul-de-sac
Kenneth G. Dietz
Fiscal Officer
Anderson Insights represents
a continuing effort to improve
communication between you
and your township officials.
• Eastdale Drive from Ackley to Pickwick
• Glen Eden from Williams Creek to cul-de-sac
• Kingsway - all
• FoxDen from Williams Creek to cul-de-sac
• Gainsborough from Gammwell to cul-de-sac
• Hawkslanding from Williams Creek to cul-de-sac
• Maidmarion from Robinway to cul-de-sac
• Overlook Hills from Williams Creek to cul-de-sac
• Barnsdale from Robinway to cul-de-sac
• Lady Ellen - all
• Asbury Hills East from Asbury Road to
the cul-de-sac
• Williamscreek - Little Dry Run to Overlook Hills Drive
2 APRIL 2015
• Dry Run View - all
Administrators Seek Solutions to Racino Payment Dilemma
Costs for significantly increased public safety services at Entertainment District a concern for
Anderson Township officials.
Township officials have spent the past four months seeking a
solution to a controversial state funding issue that was to bring
$500,000 in revenue into the township’s budget to offset increased
public safety service costs.
At issue is who is going to pay for legislatively promised
payments to host racino communities–either the state of Ohio
or gaming operators who have each paid $50 million or more in
licensing fees to the state of Ohio. The scheduled $500,000 annual
payment to six host communities was intended to offset additional
public service needs generated by the businesses, with a first
payment due at the end of 2014.
For the past few months, Administrator Vicky Earhart has been
working with state legislators and other host communities to help
resolve the question of exactly where the money will come from to
fulfill this legislative commitment.
“The issue is not with the individual racinos,” Earhart noted.
“Belterra Park Gaming & Entertainment Center has been an
excellent community partner and corporate citizen. We’ve had a
great working relationship with them from the get-go,” she said.
“We’re happy to be hosting their racino.”
The funding dilemma lies at the state level, Earhart said.
According to legislation from the 129th Ohio General Assembly,
the governor (in consultation with the State Racino Commission)
was charged with negotiating and reaching an agreement regarding
the annual $500,000 payment. The first payment was due
December 31, 2014.
Since that deadline was passed by, officials from six communities
including Anderson Township gathered in the Ohio Statehouse in
late March to urge Governor John Kasich to finalize negotiations
for the half-million dollar annual payments. Negotiations came to
a standstill when the parties couldn’t reach an agreement. That left
racino host communities like Anderson Township in a quandary.
Earhart represented Anderson Township at the statehouse
and noted, “Governor Kasich has agreed that all six racino host
communities should receive funding, but his representative
made it very clear that those payments would not be made from
the tens of millions of dollars the state of Ohio has already
collected from racinos.”
“Our expenses in terms of fire and safety services to the racino
are significantly increased over the previous business at that site,”
she noted. In its first six months of operation, Hamilton County
Sheriff ’s Office District 5 made 164 responses to Belterra. This
represents a 583 percent increase in responses to the venue over the
same six-month period in 2013 when it was River Downs Racetrack.
Fire and rescue responses have also increased with an average of 7.9
responses per month versus an average of 2.4 responses per month
over the prior five year period, a 230 percent increase. “Anderson
Township taxpayers should not have to bear the burden of
additional costs or suffer from a reduction in services due to failed
negotiations,” Earhart said.
Trustee President Russ Jackson agrees that taxpayers
should not have to pick up the tab for these additional services.
“The funding is critical to the township to help offset ongoing
operational costs as the township receives only real estate taxes
from the development and has no authority to collect payroll or
income taxes,” he said.
“I remain hopeful the legislature and the governor realize
that promises made should be promises kept. We are pleased to
have the racino here and eagerly await a solution to this issue,”
noted Trustee Second Vice President Andrew Pappas.
Belterra Park Gaming & Entertainment Center
Work on resolving the issue is ongoing, Earhart said. The six
host communities sent a letter to Governor Kasich asking for him
to exercise his executive powers or a legislative fix to bring the issue
to a conclusion, thus removing the financial burden from local
taxpayers.
State Representative Tom Brinkman and two of his colleagues
also recently introduced a budget-amendment proposal which
authorizes $500,000 annual payments to racino communities for
a limited period of time. Township officials are also reaching out
to Senator Shannon Jones who has two racinos in her legislative
district in the hopes that she will support similar legislation in
the Senate, Earhart said.
“The state and at least one of the racino operators don’t want
to reduce their own coffers by paying local governments for
the services being rendered. That is simply unacceptable – a
commitment was made and needs to be adhered to,” said Fiscal
Officer Ken Dietz.
APRIL 2015
3
Important Information to Help You Understand the CFI
Times Two! Anderson Voted Tops By Two Media Outlets
Both City Beat magazine (in their annual Best of
Cincinnati issue) and a Channel 19 WCPO reader
survey have spoken: Anderson Township is the best
neighborhood in Greater Cincinnati.
WCPO cited Anderson’s “destination” school
district, Greenspace, accessibility and economic
development as factors in the readers’ decision to
put Anderson at the top of the pack. City Beat has
What is a CFI?
A CFI is a new kind of traffic pattern that allows multiple
lanes of traffic to move through an intersection at the same
time, but in a different pattern. Opposing straight, left turn
and right turn traffic on Five Mile will move through the
intersection simultaneously. This provides more “green time”
for the entire intersection.
Why was a CFI selected for this
location?
Various approaches have been studied for this busy location,
including dual left turn lanes, a roundabout, and grade
separated ramps. The “two legged” CFI (since changes are
only proposed along Five Mile) presents an approach that
has the greatest benefit. It reduces the impact to adjoining
properties with lower costs, while providing benefits to all
motorists using the intersection.
How much does the project cost?
The projected construction cost of the CFI is $3.5 million
and is being paid for entirely by the combination of Federal
Transportation and State Capital Improvement grants.
Will the intersection be closed during
construction?
No. Except for some overnight construction work, two lanes
will be maintained in all directions during construction.
Utility relocation has begun and the bulk of the construction
will occur along Five Mile Road beginning next March.
If the changes are only on Five Mile,
how does Beechmont traffic improve?
As there will only be one traffic light cycle for Five Mile (since
opposing traffic will move at the same time) Beechmont will
see more time for the green light portion of the traffic cycle.
This will help delays and impacts on nearby intersections, such
as at Beechmont and Forest, especially for left-turning traffic.
4 APRIL 2015
How will my driving experience change
using the CFI?
There will be no change to the flow of Beechmont traffic,
with the exception that there will be a continuous right
turn via a new merge lane from Beechmont onto Five Mile
when no pedestrians are present. There will be no change to
traffic on Five Mile crossing or turning right onto Beechmont
either. The only change will be for left turn traffic from Five
Mile to Beechmont. This will require vehicles to cross in front
of oncoming traffic at a new traffic light before the intersection.
What happens if there is a power failure
or accident at the intersection?
Like all signaled intersections in Anderson Township, the
junction is equipped with a battery-controlled backup device.
If an accident were to occur in a left or right turn lane on
Five Mile, the design of the median’s curbs will would allow
motorists to go around the disabled vehicle.
Can pedestrians cross the intersection?
Yes. The CFI includes a series of medians with traffic signals
enabling residents to cross all sides of the intersection.
Additional sidewalks are planned on the south side of
Beechmont leading to this intersection.
Will I still be able to get to all
businesses in this area?
Yes. However, the route may be changed slightly due to new
driveway locations and medians. Access driveways now exist
from all properties abutting this intersection to nearby traffic
signals for left turns.
named Anderson the “best” designation three out of
the past four years.
“The awards are an acknowledgment of the great
neighborhoods and people that make up Anderson
Township,” said Andrew Pappas, township trustee
second vice president. “There truly is a sense of
community here unlike any I have seen elsewhere.
Let’s keep this tradition going.”
Neighborhood Watch Program Reaches Milestone
Community policing’s cornerstone effort in Anderson Township, the Neighborhood Watch program,
recently hit a significant landmark as Watch Hill subdivision becomes the 100th group here.
Started in 1972, the national Neighborhood Watch program is
said to be one of the oldest and most effective crime prevention
programs in America, recruiting citizens to keep a trained eye
on their own neighborhoods and communities. In Anderson,
the program was revitalized starting in 2001, and now covers
a significant portion of the township.
Cpl. Dave Boiman of the Hamilton County Sheriff ’s Office
has headed up the local program since 2001. Over time, he said,
communication between township residents and the Hamilton
County Sheriff ’s Office has increased, thanks in part to the
Neighborhood Watch efforts. Individuals involved in the program
receive email updates about local suspicious activity, criminal
activity and crime prevention tips. The local neighborhoods are
urged to communicate about what’s going on in the neighborhood,
meet regularly and modify the program for their needs.
Boiman said the Neighborhood Watches put more eyes
and ears in the community, “which is helpful because crime has
changed over the years.” Having neighbors looking out for one
another makes people more likely to report suspicious activity,
scams and the criminal element, he noted.
“I think there is a benefit to the township working together,”
Boiman said. “This milestone, the 100 groups, is great for our
community.”
Another avenue of increased communication between
residents and law enforcement is the township’s new Nextdoor
for Public Agencies program, a crime information sharing
website that operates through a social media platform.
“This effort also increases communication between our
residents and law enforcement,”
Boiman said. Additionally,
Nextdoor provides opportunities
for disseminating emergency
preparedness information, allows
information exchange about
topics of public interest and also
valuable crime prevention tips.
For Nextdoor information, go to:
AndersonTownship.org, and search
for “Nextdoor for Public Agencies.”
Vacant House Program Provides
Added Assurance for Vacationers
Planning a spring or summer vacation? Remember that the
Hamilton County Sheriff ’s Office offers a free home vacation check
while you are away. It’s easy to set up the service. Two or three days
before you leave, enter all your information online on a secure
website. Go to AndersonTownship.org and click on the Sheriff ’s
Office link under Departments,” then click on “Vacant House Check.”
Residents may also contact the Sheriff ’s Office at 474-5770 to
request the check and provide security information. Have security
details ready such as an emergency contact, name of a key holder
and more.
The service has proven to be very popular since residents can now
access it online. In the past eight months, there have been more than
300 vacant house checks.
APRIL 2015 5
HISTORY
The ‘Great Storm’ Caused Havoc a Century Ago
On the list of severe weather events in Ohio history is the “Great Storm” that struck
Cincinnati and vicinity, including the Anderson area, on Wednesday, July 7, 1915.
Cherry Grove Evangelical United Brethren Church at the northwest corner
of Beechmont Avenue and Eight Mile Road was heavily damaged by the
1915 storm.
Interior of the Cherry Grove E.U.B. Church after the storm.
The storm moved from Missouri across Illinois, Indiana
and Ohio. Headlines spoke of tornadoes, but no funnel clouds
were seen. Newspapers described the extensive damage and
loss of life in the Cincinnati region–38 people killed, more than
$1 million in damages ($23 million value in 2015), homes and
buildings demolished, steamboats overturned, trees uprooted,
crops flattened. There were no deaths in the Anderson area
during the storm, but sadly an electrician doing repairs on a
pole on Beechmont was killed by a live wire four days later.
Near the corner of Beechmont and Eight Mile, the Cherry
Grove Evangelical United Brethren Church building was
heavily damaged. The congregation was able to repair the
church. Tragically the church had to be rebuilt again after a
fire in 1924. The Cherry Grove United Methodist Church, as
it is now known, moved to Eight Mile Road in 1969. Today,
McCall’s Flooring occupies the former E.U.B. Church building
at 8342 Beechmont Ave. Across the street, the Anderson public
district school was demolished by the 1915 storm and had to be
replaced.
In Newtown, scarcely a house escaped damage and the
village streets were blocked by trees. In nearby Mt. Washington
at Sutton and Corbly roads, the former Methodist Protestant
Church, built in 1851, lost its roof and steeple. This building
was repaired with a patch where its steeple once stood and was
used by local groups until it was razed in 1960.
At 2249 Beechmont Ave., the Colter Canning Company,
famous for canned tomatoes, was the area’s major industry.
A quarter million tin cans on hand for the summer were lost.
A rear wall collapsed; the roof landed on a nearby home.
Throughout the area, stands of timber, fruit and shade
trees, shrubbery, farm crops and gardens were damaged.
Farmers were hard hit; corn was flattened and tomatoes looked
blighted. Few people had cameras but Ed Collord, who lived
near Wayside Avenue, took images that help us appreciate the
massive clean-up effort. Today we have advance storm warnings
to help us prepare for the power from such strong winds.
Shade trees around this house near Wayside were blown down.
Photo by Ed Collord
At Sutton and Corbly roads, the former Methodist Protestant Church
lost its roof and steeple.
Photos from the collections of the Anderson Township Historical
Society. Text and research courtesy of Janet Heywood.
Remains of the Cherry Grove district school.
Cleaning up the many fallen trees was a hard job. Photo by Ed Collord.
6 APRIL 2015
APRIL 2015
7
RECYCLING
Recycling Free, Convenient at
Anderson’s Two Recycling Centers
Springtime means cleaning up and cleaning out! If you have
recyclables ready for disposal, remember Anderson’s recently
upgraded recycling center is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week
at the Anderson Township Operations Center, 7954 Beechmont
Ave. This single-stream recycling center accepts paper, junk mail,
paperboard (i.e. cereal boxes) glass, aluminum, steel cans and
more. For details, contact Anderson Township at 688-8400.
The township also is home to a yard waste recycling center
at Turpin Farms, operated by Bzak Landscaping, 3295 State Route 32.
Items to be recycled include brush, limbs and other yard waste.
The site is sponsored by the Hamilton County Recycling and
Solid Waste District. Some restrictions apply. Bring your recycling
from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on
Saturdays and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Sundays.
Shredding and Recycling Days Help You Get Organized
From Concrete to Cans, Local
Groups Help You Reuse, Recycle
Need to get rid of sensitive documents?
Want to recycle an old computer, propane tank or an American
flag? Have a fire extinguisher than needs to be discarded? A free
event each year at the Anderson Operations Center helps you
dispose of items that are no longer needed. Stop by Shredding and
Recycling Days set for 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, May 8, and 8 a.m. to
1 p.m. Saturday, May 9, to dispose of your articles.
The Operations Center is located adjacent to the Anderson
Senior Center, 7954 Beechmont Ave. Please remove all paper clips,
What to Bring
• American flags
• Fuel/propane tanks
• Car batteries
• Gasoline and antifreeze
• Computer equipment
• Motor oil
• Computer ink and toner
• Liquid driveway sealer
• Cell phones
• Mercury/fluorescent bulbs
• Eye glasses
•Tires
• Fire extinguishers
What Not to Bring
• Medical waste
•Paint
• Household waste/garbage
• Yard waste
8 APRIL 2015
The list of local businesses and organizations accepting
items for recycling and reuse seems to keep growing.
Hamilton County’s Recycling and Solid Waste District has
organized an extensive list of recyclers, many of them in the
Anderson area or on the east side of Cincinnati.
Items that can be recycled nearby include, but are not limited to:
• Computers and electronics • Metal • Appliances
• Ink and toner cartridges
• Linens
• Auto recyclables (batteries, oil, antifreeze, radiators)
• Light bulbs and compact fluorescent lights
To access the full list, go to HamiltonCountyRecycles.org.
binders, and binder clips on items that will be shredded.
The only thing that can be attached to the paper is a staple.
Recycle your old car batteries, excess tires, wireless
phones, eyeglasses and motor oil during this special
township-sponsored event.
Proof of Anderson residency required. No commercial
vehicles, please. For questions call Betty Cowan at 688-8400
or [email protected].
Divert Excess Food from Landfills
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, food
is the largest type of waste going to landfills and incinerators.
Much of the food that is discarded in landfills is safe and could
be used to feed people. When excess food, leftover food and
food scraps are disposed of in a landfill, they rot and become a
significant source of methane, which is a potent greenhouse gas.
Here are a few tips for ways to reduce wasted food:
• Compost food scraps instead of throwing them away - turn
the food into a valuable soil amendment
• Store your food properly to avoid loss- prevent food waste
before it is created
• Donate safe, untouched food to food banks
• Buying in bulk only saves money if you are able to use
the food before it spoils
For information about how to avoid food waste, go to
HamiltonCountyRecycles.org.
APRIL 2015
9
Planning and Zoning by the Numbers in 2014
Anderson’s past and present are just some of the topics explored during the annual “History to Schools”
program, which starts this month for local second and third grade students.
Zoning Activity
CERTIFICATES
ISSUED
Hands-on Learning Makes ‘History to Schools’ Program Memorable
This joint effort involving the township, the Anderson Township
Historical Society, the Forest Hills Local School District and the
Village of Newtown has produced a special day for Forest Hills
second graders and third grade students from Immaculate Heart
of Mary School. They converge at Anderson Center in late April
and early May for a day-long field trip involving nature, history
and civics.
During the History to Schools program, students visit the
Anderson Township History Room, visit with safety service
providers, hone their map skills, learn about natural habitats
around Anderson Lake and receive a tree seedling to take home
for Arbor Day.
The Historical Society undertakes a visit to the past, as it
highlights a “Then and Now” program, sharing changes in
transportation, communications and the lifestyles of some of
the township’s earliest inhabitants.
SINGLE FAMILY
CERTIFICATES ONLY
Sirens Set for Spring’s Surprises
Nominate Beautiful Places for Annual Anderson Awards
Exceptional places and beautiful spaces are targets for special recognition each year
in the township, through the Beautification Awards program.
Landscapes, commercial properties, residential gardens
and common areas all are eligible for the awards. Nominations
are open May 21-June 6 and businesses and individuals can
nominate their own property.
Sponsored by the township’s Betterment and Beautification
Committee, the awards recognize properties that have been
beautified or significantly improved.
Categories include:
• Site improvement (A commercial property that
has been redeveloped within the past two years.)
• Private residence (A home with great curb appeal.
Only the front yard is considered.)
• Residential (Entrances, gateways and common
areas that are maintained by a homeowners
association or group.)
• Nonresidential (A business that has a little
something extra in their landscaping.)
10 A P R I L 2 0 1 5
Winners receive a property sign noting their achievements.
Submit nominations to Anderson Township Beautification
Awards, 7850 Five Mile Road, Anderson Township,
OH 45230. Call Allison Hodson at 688-8400 or email
her at [email protected]. For a downloadable
form, go to AndersonTownship.org.
It’s No Secret – Anderson
is Proud of its Trees
Anderson Township again has been awarded as a Tree City
USA community, its sixth year for the recognition. This year the
township also will receive a “Growth Award” for expanded efforts in
tree education. Anderson’s volunteer-based Street Tree Committee
organizes and oversees the township’s street tree efforts, including
education about trees and management of the township’s street trees.
Severe weather sirens in Anderson Township are ready to
be activated during the severe weather season. The township’s
13 outdoor weather sirens provide emergency coverage for
individuals who are out and about during a severe weather event.
The outdoor warning sirens will sound a steady tone for five
minutes, only during a tornado warning. Sirens in Hamilton
County are tested the first Wednesday of the month at noon.
For more information, go to the Ohio Committee for Severe
Weather Awareness website at WeatherSafety.ohio.gov.
CodeREDTM System Performance
Test Set for Subscribers on May 6
In the event of an emergency, Anderson Township officials
issue alerts through CodeRED, a high-speed notification program.
The CodeRED system allows messages to be quickly delivered to
targeted areas of Anderson or the community as a whole.
At 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 6, Anderson will conduct a
performance test of the system.
All residents who are currently
in the emergency database will
receive a text and/or a phone
call message depending on what
notifications they signed up for.
Receiving a test message will
assure that residents receive a notice when an actual alert is issued
by township officials. Residents who have not enrolled to receive
emergency CodeRED notifications or did not receive a test
message should go to the CodeRED link at AndersonTownship.org
to sign up. The signup process is quick and easy.
The system allows residents to be contacted by cell phone,
land line or text. For details, contact Rick Martin at 688-8400 or
[email protected].
APRIL 2015
11
EVENTS
Fire and Rescue Department by the Numbers in 2014
1,180 Fire Runs
3,050 EMS Runs
RUN TOTAL
Fire and EMS
5:26 minutes
for structure fires
Fire/EMS Dispatch Billing Costs on the Rise from Hamilton County
Fine Arts and Crafts Abound
During Annual Summerfair
If one event seems to
signal the impending
beginning of summer, it’s
likely the annual return of
Summerfair to Coney Island,
set for May 29-31 this year.
More than 300 artists
from the U.S. and Canada
head back this year in this
48th year of Summerfair,
augmented by regional
performers, youth activities
and plenty of entertainment.
Tickets are $10 cash only at the gate, with children 12 and under
admitted free. Parking is included in the ticket price. Advance one
day, or multi-day tickets are available online www.Summerfair.org.
June Used Book Sale in 35th Year
The Anderson Township Library Association hosts its annual
June Used Book Sale at Nagel Middle School, 1500 Nagel Road, on
June 26-28.
All categories of books, as well as puzzles, CDs and DVDs
are available and arranged for easy browsing. Sale times are Friday
10 a.m.–8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday noon–3 p.m.
Proceeds benefit the Anderson and Mount Washington branch libraries.
Bike Safety Rodeo Readies
Kids for Summer Fun
Public Safety Servants Awarded Commendations
Officers of the Year Named
Firefighter of Year Named
Cpl. Andrew Stoll
Spencer Thomas
Enforcement Officer Cpl. Andrew Stoll of
the Hamilton County Sheriff ’s Office District
5 substation has been named the American
Legion Post 318 Law Enforcement Officer of
the Year. Stoll is a member of the training staff
and conducts ALICE (active aggressor shooter)
training for the sheriff ’s office and
the community.
Anderson Township resident Cpl. John Loewenstine of the
Hamilton County Sheriff ’s Office was awarded the Law Enforcement
Officer of the Year for Hamilton County. He is currently assigned to
the United States Marshal’s Office SOFAST Unit.
12 A P R I L 2 0 1 5
Firefighter-Paramedic Spencer Thomas
of Anderson Township Fire and Rescue
has been named the Firefighter of the Year,
an award sponsored by American Legion
Post 318.
He began his firefighting career in 1992
with the Union Township Fire Department
before joining Anderson Township in
1999 as a part-time member. Since 2004, he has assisted with
township fire investigation and then in 2007 he began working
with the Hamilton County Fire Investigation Unit with cause
determination.
Registration open for
Independence Day Parade
It’s that time again! Planning for Anderson’s Independence
Day Parade starts up soon, and your entry is desired for this
year’s 11th annual parade.
Get together a group of friends or neighbors to create a
memorable entry for the parade, which is scheduled for 10 a.m.
Saturday, July 4.
The parade route will stay the same as last year, starting at
the Anderson Township Operations Center, 7954 Beechmont Ave.,
moving to Anderson Towne Center. After the parade, enjoy a
vintage car show, children’s activities and more at the center.
Registration forms are available at Anderson Center, 7850 Five
Mile Road, on the township’s website, www.AndersonTownship.org
(under the What’s New section), or at the official parade site
AndersonParade.com. To volunteer, call 688-8400 and ask for Steve
Sievers or email [email protected].
If your child needs a review on bike safety, ramp up his or her
skills at a free bike rodeo scheduled for Saturday, May 30, from
10 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at Anderson Center Station, 7832 Five Mile Road.
Focused on children ages kindergarten through fourth grade, the
rodeo includes bike safety checks, an obstacle course, tips on helmet
safety and basic bike skills instruction.
Members of the Hamilton County Sheriff ’s Office Bike Patrol,
Anderson Township Fire and Rescue Department and representatives
from Montgomery Cyclery all help at the bike rodeo. Bicycles and
safety helmets will be available for use for those who did not bring
them, with instruction from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical
Center. For information, contact Tom Caruso at 688-8400 or
[email protected].
APRIL 2015
13
EVENTS
June 7 Tour Highlights Best
of Anderson Gardens
Farmers’ Market 2015 Schedule Features Guest Chefs, New Vendors
Rounding the corner and heading toward summer, the
Anderson Farmers’ Market is up and running now inside
Anderson Center Station for its eighth season. The indoor market
operates from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each Saturday and includes
vendors selling plants, spring produce, organic cheese and more.
Set aside some time to enjoy live music, a petting zoo, special
foods, giveaways and the team of local vendors at the opening day
of the outdoor market, set from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 23,
at the center.
“The majority of our regular vendors will be returning (as
weather and produce allow) with the addition of some new
vendors,” said Nancy Downs, market coordinator. “Joining us
weekly will be No Bull BBQ as our featured ‘ready to eat’ food
vendor.” Two new vendors from Anderson Township include
Giddy Gourmet Popcorn which will offer a variety of popcorn
flavors including smoky cheddar, chipotle lime and garlic herb.
Cincinnutty Snacks brings tandoori peanuts, Cincinnati chili
peanuts, sugar and spice pecans and more.
This year, the market brings back guest chefs to emphasis using
market products in unique recipes. Other additions include a
children’s activity available weekly to encourage healthy living,
she said. “Please join every Saturday as we support our local fresh
vendors with this community event.”
Special events schedule for this year:
• May 23–Opening Day for Outdoor Market
• May 30–Bike Rodeo
• June 20–Farmers’ Market Tea
• July 18–Zucchini Bread Bake-off
• August 15–Salsa Competition
• September 12–Fall Festival
Opportunities still exist for folks who want to volunteer
at the market. Contact Nancy Downs at 688-8400 or
[email protected] to learn more about volunteer
positions. Anderson Center Station is at 7832 Five Mile Road.
Veterans Remembered at
Memorial Day Ceremony
A solemn annual remembrance of fallen veterans, the Memorial
Day Bell Ringing Ceremony, is set for 11:45 a.m. Monday, May 25,
at Anderson Center. The Anderson Township Veterans Memorial
Committee organizes the event each year.
Names of deceased members of the armed forces will be read
during the ceremony. Sign in by 11:45 a.m. if you wish to have your
loved one’s name read during the ceremony. The event starts at noon.
Take in the creativity and color of some of the best gardens in
Anderson Township during the annual Anderson Garden Tour, set
for Sunday, June 7, at various locations throughout the community.
Professional gardeners and newbies alike display unique
landscape ideas and share their journey in the garden each year
during this township-sponsored event. This year’s tour, which
runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., is the 10th annual.
This free, self-guided course allows you to tour as many
gardens as you like, at your own speed, during the six-hour period.
A map of garden locations will be available at Anderson
Center, 7850 Five Mile Road, on May 1 or download it on
AndersonTownship.org after that same date.
The annual tour is sponsored by the Anderson Township
Betterment and Beautification Committee.
Bargains and Bargain-Hunters Merge at Annual Garage Sale
who have rented a space at the center. Sellers must
be Anderson residents. A fee of $15 per 18 x 19 foot space
(two parking spaces) is charged and vendors must bring their
own tables and chairs. Set up at 7 a.m.; all items must be removed
by 3 p.m.
Contact Amy Meyer at 688-8400 ext. 1192 to reserve your
space or email her at [email protected].
Reservations also are accepted at Anderson Center during
regular business hours. Last year, space ran out so please
contact the township early to secure your spot. No refunds.
Yard Sales Galore Around the Township
Buy, sell, and maybe even do a little haggling for bargains
during the annual Anderson Center Station Garage Sale, scheduled
for 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Saturday, May 2.
Rain or shine, residents will offer their treasures in the station
parking lot. Early birds can start their search at 8 a.m. among those
14 A P R I L 2 0 1 5
In conjunction with the Anderson Center Station
Yard Sale, Anderson Township hosts its community-wide
yard/garage sale on the same day, Saturday, May 2. Households
interested in having their sale listed on the township’s website
(AndersonTownship.org) can email Betty Cowan at
[email protected] with the address and time of the
sale. The listing is provided for Anderson Township locations.
Food Truck Rally: 18 Trucks,
Music and Memories
Bringing delightful fusion food straight to the sidewalk, the
June Anderson Food Truck Rally promises to be bigger and better
during its second year. The event has expanded from 10 to 18
trucks at Anderson Center Station, 7832 Five Mile Road.
Foodies and food trucks converge from 4-10 p.m. on Saturday,
June 13 outside, along with live music and entertainment.
Volunteers are needed for the event. Contact Molly Mohrfield
at 688-8400 or [email protected].
APRIL 2015
15
CONNECT
APRIL
Anderson Center Station Garage Sale
Anderson Center, 7832 Five Mile Road
Saturday, May 2, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Info: Amy Meyer at 688-8400 or
[email protected]
Community-Wide Garage Sale
Locations all over township;
check AndersonTownship.org for list
Saturday, May 2, time varies
Contact Betty Cowan at 688-8400 or
[email protected]
Shredding and Recycling Days
Anderson Township Operations Center
7954 Beechmont Ave.
Friday, May 8, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Saturday, May 9, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Info: Betty Cowan at 688-8400 or
[email protected]
Roaming Writers of Cincinnati Sale
Anderson Center Station, 7832 Five Mile Road
Saturday, May 9, 2-5 p.m.
Info: Joyce Maynard at 876-5040 or
SundayBells.com
Summerfair
Coney Island, 6201 Kellogg Ave.
Friday, May 29, 2-8 p.m.
Saturday, May 30, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Sunday, May 31, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Info: 531-0050 or Summerfair.org
June Used Book Sale - 35th year
Nagel Middle School, 1500 Nagel Road
June 26-28; Friday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Sunday, noon-3 p.m.
Proceeds benefit Anderson and
Mount Washington branch libraries
Info: 369-6030
Ongoing Events
Anderson Township History Room
Anderson Center, 7850 Five Mile Road
Open year-round: Tuesdays: 6-8:30 p.m.
Wednesdays and Sundays: 1-4 p.m.
Sponsored by the Anderson Township
Historical Society and Anderson Township
Info: 688-8400 or
AndersonTownshipHistoricalSociety.org
MAY
Memorial Day Bell Ceremony
Anderson Center South Plaza, 7850 Five Mile Road
Monday, May 25, 11:45 a.m.
Info: Molly Mohrfield at 688-8400 or
[email protected]
Beechmont Players - Inherit the Wind
Anderson Center, 7850 Five Mile Road
Friday May 8, 8 p.m., Saturday, May 9, 3 and 8 p.m.
Friday, May 15, 8 p.m., Saturday, May 16, 3 and p.m.
Tickets: $15
Seniors 60 and up and active military: $13
Info: 233-2468 or BeechmontPlayers.org
16 A P R I L 2 0 1 5
Food Truck Rally
Anderson Center Station
7832 Five Mile Road
Saturday, June 13, 4-10 p.m.
Free
Info: Molly Mohrfield at 688-8400 or
[email protected]
Anderson Bicycle Rodeo
Anderson Center Station
7832 Five Mile Road
Saturday, May 30, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Info: Tom Caruso at 688-8400 or
[email protected]
Anderson Township Indoor Farmers’ Market
Anderson Center Station, 7832 Five Mile Road
Saturdays 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. through May 16
Info: Nancy Downs at 688-8400 or
AndersonFarmersMarket.org
Anderson Township Independence Day Parade
Witt Road to Anderson Towne Center
Saturday, July 4, 10 a.m.
Info: AndersonParade.com
Anderson Garden Tour
Variety of gardens throughout
Anderson Township
Sunday, June 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Info: Allison Hodson or
[email protected]
Anderson Community Band
Anderson Center
7850 Five Mile Road
Sunday, June 7, 7 p.m.
Free
Info: John Fecker at 207-8506 or
AndersonCommunityBand.org
The Young Artists’ Preparatory
Program Showcase
Anderson Center, 7850 Five Mile Road
Thursday, June 12, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, June 14, 2 and 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: $12
Info: Musical Arts Center at 321-2766
JUNE
Greater Anderson Days
Beech Acres Park, 6910 Salem Road
Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25, 5-11 p.m.
Sunday, July 26, 5-10 p.m.
Info: 474-0003 or AndersonParks.com
Anderson Township Outdoor Farmers’ Market
Anderson Center Station, 7832 Five Mile Road
Saturdays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. starting May 23
Info: Nancy Downs at 688-8400 or
AndersonFarmersMarket.org
Party on the Plaza Concert Series
Anderson Center, 7850 Five Mile Road
Thursdays 5:30-9:30 p.m.
May 7 - Haymarket Riot
June 4 - The Danny Frazier Band
June 18 - Backbeat
July 9 - What She Said
July 23 - The Leroy Ellington Band
Free admission - food and drink $4 and under.
Happy Hour - $2 on all beers from 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Info: 474-4802 or AndersonPartyonthePlaza.com
APRIL 2015
17
VOLUNTEER VOICES
Board of Township Trustees
Russell L. Jackson, Jr.
(C) 235-4054
[email protected]
Joshua S. Gerth
(C) 833-3010
[email protected]
Andrew S. Pappas
(W) 688-8628
[email protected]
Fiscal Officer
Kenneth G. Dietz
(W) 688-8400
Board members
welcome your calls!
Anderson Insights
Publishers:
Steve Sievers
Nancy Caine
Editor:
Vicky Earhart
Anderson Center
7850 Five Mile Road
Anderson Township,
Ohio 45230
688-8400
Government Services
at Anderson Center:
Administration and
Fiscal Office
Planning and Zoning
Public Works
Fire and Rescue
Hamilton County
Sheriff’s Office
AndersonTownship.org
AndersonCenterEvents.org
Facebook:
Anderson Township, Ohio
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Variety of Needs Addressed Through Anderson Senior Center
Zoning Commission
As part of its administration of zoning regulations, Anderson
Township must have an operating Zoning Commission.
The center is a conveniently located and easily accessible resource to help
connect senior citizens to area services.
The duties of this commission are laid out in the Ohio Revised Code. In general, the commission hears cases
that involve modifying the Anderson Township Zoning Map or the text of the Anderson Township Zoning
Resolution. Also, the commission hears cases involving major or minor modification of developments
within Planned Unit Development Districts in Anderson.
At the Anderson Senior Center, Service Coordinator Kate Moore
works with individuals who need assistance with transportation,
home-delivered meals, health care and more. “Anderson-area
seniors can often stay independent and in their own homes with
just a little help,” notes Libby Feck, director of program services.
“We’re here to help our residents understand what is available.”
Many people attending
the senior center
participate in activities
such as exercise, Tai Chi,
yoga and chair volleyball.
Other services provided
include day trips, monthly
events, educational
programming and more.
Jay Lewis
I retired from 20+ years
in the computer IT industry
in 2005 and was looking for
activities that could leverage
my education and experience.
I got involved in the Zoning
Commission as a natural
progression of my involvement
with Anderson Township citizen groups. After
several years of working on different committees,
this year I was asked to become a zoning
commissioner to serve out the remaining term
of a resigning member.
The last few months have seen larger and more
complex zoning cases with the Kroger expansion
and the planned theatre development. The Zoning
Commission relies heavily on the diligent work
of the Anderson Township Planning and Zoning
Anne McBride
Volunteer Anne McBride
has lived in Anderson
Township for the last 29 years
and says she has seen a lot of
changes in that time. “I am
a planner by education and
profession and have been
involved with the township’s
planning efforts since I was in college. When the
opening came up on the Zoning Commission,
I saw that as a chance to use my professional
expertise in a way that could contribute and
make a difference in how the community evolved.
During my terms on the Zoning Commission
we have seen both significant development and
redevelopment. I hope that I have been able to
18 A P R I L 2 0 1 5
Department. Additionally, the Anderson Township
Trustees have been supportive of the Commission’s
actions.
You cannot drive up and down Beechmont
without seeing the impact new businesses will have
on the Anderson experience. Dewey’s Pizza, Fresh
Thyme and Silver Ladle will all be up and running
in the near future. I’ve read the strategic vision
for Anderson Township and believe each zoning
decision serves as a piece to the puzzle. Will it ever
be complete? Who knows, but it is nice to see the
community embrace changes that will improve the
quality of life for everyone.
When you view all of the planning and proposed
changes within Anderson Township, it is no wonder
that our community was recently voted the most
livable suburb in Cincinnati by WCPO viewers in
a landslide margin.
bring my professional knowledge as a zoning
consultant to the commission and ask questions
and make suggestions that may have led to better
development in the township. I have found that
if we as a commission approach applicants with
suggestions, they are surprisingly agreeable to
implementing them, provided it is not contrary to
their business.
I think the commission tries to be businessfriendly while keeping the goals and policies of our
community in mind. We are in an exciting period
in the township with the changes proposed for the
Anderson Towne Center and other developments
occurring in the community. I hope that I have
helped to add something positive in shaping how
our community develops.”
Of course, some residents need long-term care to help with the
activities of daily living. The senior center can help direct seniors in
meeting these needs, too. For more information about senior center
services, call 474-3100.
Seniors Benefit with Athletics Gold Cards
The Forest Hills School District provides an Athletics Gold Card
to individuals 60 or over who live in district. The card provides
free admission to all regular season district home athletic events
with the exception of the boys Anderson vs. Turpin football and
basketball games.
To receive an Athletics Gold Card, stop by the district’s
Human Resources Department at the administrative building,
7550 Forest Road, weekdays during business hours.
Spend Your Summer at Anderson Parks
Anderson Township Park District’s summer camps are a great
way for kids to spend their summer vacation! A variety of options
are offered for children ages 3½–12. Camp counselors are carefully
selected to provide fun, safe and meaningful camp experiences.
Summer Day Camp: Available for 5–12 year olds, these weekly
camp sessions include daily swimming at Coney Island’s Sunlite
Pool, games, crafts, and a weekly field trip. Camp takes place
Monday-Friday at the Beech Acres Park RecPlex. Campers must
be 5 years old by January 1, 2015 and have completed kindergarten.
Mini Camps: These half-day camps take place MondayThursday at Veterans Park and are designed for 3½-5 year olds.
Campers enjoy crafts, games, snacks, and special theme days.
All campers must be potty trained and meet the age requirement.
Travel Camp: Available for 10½ -12 year olds, this one-week camp
includes a different field trip each day, and ends with an overnight
camp-out in the Beech Acres Park RecPlex gym. Campers must be
10 years old by January 1, 2015.
Visit AndersonParks.com for detailed information and
registration options.
Come Party on the Plaza
Party on the Plaza is the east side’s award-winning, premier
monthly summer concert series produced by
the Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce in
conjunction with Anderson Township. This
free community event is designed to combine
local businesses with a relaxing night of musical
entertainment for area residents of all ages.
“Of all the 1,800 or more scheduled events at the Anderson
Center last year, none was more popular than the Party on the Plaza
series,” said Township Trustee First Vice President Josh Gerth.
“Great food, drinks and music combined with family and friends
of all ages in Anderson Township is a recipe for a wonderful
community event. I’m so pleased that we have the venue, the
businesses, volunteers and the Chamber who make this possible.”
All Parties on the Plaza run from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on the outdoor
plaza of Anderson Center, 7850 Five Mile Road. Music starts at 6
p.m. and ends around 9 p.m. In addition the chamber has a beer
booth, a wine booth and a soft drink booth to quench your thirst.
All concessions are $4 or less. Info: 474-4802 or
AndersonPartyonthePlaza.com.
A P R I L 2 0 1 5 19
Anderson Insights
the Newsletter of Anderson Township
Anderson Center
7850 Five Mile Road
Anderson Township, OH 45230
Presorted Std
U.S. Postage
PAID
Cincinnati, Ohio
Permit No. 9689
Printed on recycled paper with soy-based ink
Public Meetings
(Times and dates subject
to change with notice)
Board of Township
Trustees
Interim Workshop Meeting
Thursday, May 7, 2 p.m.
Regular Monthly Meeting
Thursday, May 21, 6 p.m
Betterment & Beautification
Committee
Thursday, June 11, 4 p.m.
Board of Zoning Appeals
Thursday, May 7, 5:30 p.m.
Economic
Development Committee
Tuesday, May 26, 3:30 p.m.
Greenspace Advisory
Committee
Contact Ronald Edgerton
at 231-5642
Meets as needed
Street Tree Committee
Monday, May 11, 7 p.m.
Transportation Advisory
Committee
Tuesday, May 5, 7 p.m.
Zoning Commission
Monday, May 18, 5:30 p.m.
All meetings are held
at Anderson Center.
New ‘Great Trees’ Program Open for Nominations
Do you know of a great tree (or group of trees) in Anderson Township?
Do you know of a great tree (or group of trees)
in Anderson Township? If so, the township’s
Street Tree Committee invites you to nominate
your noted tree or group of trees for the inaugural
Anderson Township Great Trees Program.
“The program is being launched to celebrate
some of the township’s many grand, beautiful
and interesting trees, especially those which are
normally hidden from public view,” said Josh
Eastlake, Street Tree Committee member. “We
also hope the program will increase awareness of
the importance of trees in general, and perhaps
even inspire you to plant some new trees on your
own property.”
Any Anderson Township tree on private or
public property is eligible, as long as the respective
property owner is agreeable to the nomination.
Each year on Arbor Day, one Great Trees Program
award will be announced in each of four categories:
• Deciduous Tree - medium to large trees
that lose their leaves each year
• Evergreen Tree - medium to large
evergreen trees
• Ornamental Tree - small to medium
deciduous or ornamental trees with some
sort of ornamental characteristic such as
showy flowers and/or fruit, weeping habit,
vibrant fall color, etc.
• Tree Grove - a group of two or more trees
of any kind, including commercial
plantings, streetscapes, orchards,
bosques, naturalistic groupings, etc.
Great Trees Program award winners will
have their photos published in Anderson Insights
and on the township’s web site. Property owners
will also receive a certificate. Records of chosen
Great Trees will be maintained in perpetuity and
be periodically republished by the Street Tree
Committee. “A single tree (or group of trees)
can win the award only once, so if your favorite
tree doesn’t get the nod one year, try again the
following year,” notes Eastlake.
To nominate a tree, go to AndersonTownship.org
to download a form, or send an email to Josh
Eastlake at [email protected] for
additional information. If your tree flowers
or is otherwise at its best before you get your
nomination form in, please take photos for review
by the committee. Deadline is not until March next
year, but Eastlake urges residents to take photos of
their tree(s) throughout the year for nomination
for next year’s event.