The H1N1 flu has received increased interest and everyone needs to have correct information on what it is and what common steps should be taken to stay healthy or recognize and treat the illness. On the back page is information from the Tacoma/Pierce County Board of Health on H1N1 Flu. You may want to keep the information handy. Also two additional ways to have questions answered or read more on this flu are: www.tpchp.org or call the Health Department at 798-6500.
The Steilacoom School District, City of DuPont, Madigan Hospital reps, and the Town have met to coordinate H1N1 flu information and review plans. Correct information coupled with common hygiene with the knowledge of flu symptoms can always help make sound decisions and treat illness.
9-1-1 (Emergency) versus Non-Emergency Reporting: Some ideas
When to call 9-1-1: Some examples are–Life threatening injury or illness; fires; serious medical aid assistance needed; SERIOUS crimes in progress (assaults, theft, robbery, etc.); Motor vehicle collisions with injuries, leaking fuel, or blocking traffic.
When to use the non-emergency number 798-4721: Some examples are– Your home or vehicle was broken into yesterday; your runaway child has returned home; to report ID theft; to report abandoned vehicles.
Using the non-emergency number keeps the 9-1-1 lines available.
On 15 September, the Council received many varied comments from residents on possible changes to the Town’s Fireworks policy. The Council thanks all residents who gave input. Council will continue to discuss this issue at the October 20th meeting.
In October, Council will address the options and recommendations for the 2010 property tax rate and the EMS tax rate. The property tax collection flows to the General Fund for Town operations and can only increase at 1% without voter approval. The EMS rate supports emergency medical services and has not been fully collected in the past with the voter approved $.50 per $1,000 of assessed value. The recommendation will again reflect only the rate amount needed to fund the Department of Public Safety’s emergency medical services (EMS) costs of about $.40 per $1,000 as we work this issue today.
Locally, the 2009 voter’s pamphlet has likely arrived and provides you opportunities to consider many area-wide candidates and four Steilacoom elected office. The Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a “Candidates’ Forum” on October 22nd at Town Hall starting at 7:00 PM. As always, be part of the process and Vote!
The Steilacoom Pub and Grill recently completed their renovation and remodel. I encourage you to stop by and sample the expanded menu.
The Apple Squeeze is on the 4th of October…..come downtown and enjoy everything apple!!
Ron Lucas, Mayor