To the Editor:
While walking my dogs this evening, I took a minute to reflect on how appreciative I am to have representatives in Oak Ridge city government that listened to my concerns and immediately took action to correct some problems that I raised.
Several months ago, I emailed City Council, the Oak Ridge Police Department, and the city manager expressing concern about streetlights being out in Hendrix Creek, speeding cars on Hendrix Drive, and a need for sidewalks so residents can safely enjoy their neighborhood without being hit by a passing car. I was astonished to receive several emails the following day indicating that my concerns were heard and that the issues raised would be addressed.
Mayor Warren Gooch connected me with the Public Works Department who had the bulbs changed and streetlights functioning within a day or two. Councilmen Charlie Hensley and Kelly Callison and Councilwoman Trina Baughn and Mayor Pro Tem Ellen Smith responded with concern for the sidewalks and indicated that they were going to look into the issues that were expressed.
Chief Jim Akagi contacted me and promised to step up police presence in the area, and I can promise you that he did just that and people slowed down. I am very thankful to have representatives that listened to a few of my concerns and promptly addressed them.
I want to especially extend my appreciation and wholehearted thank you to Mayor Gooch and the Oak Ridge City Council for proclaiming March 2016 “Adopt a Shelter Pet Month.” Oak Ridge and Anderson County are doing amazing things to advance animal welfare efforts in our community. Mayor Terry Frank and Anderson County Commission continue to defy all expectations in ensuring that a shelter is no longer just a dream for county residents. The Oak Ridge Shelter continues to partner with fantastic rescue organizations such as S.A.R.G., Friends of the Oak Ridge Animal Shelter, and S.C.A.R. to ensure that every animal who passes through their doors has a chance to have the wonderful family that it deserves.
We all play a part to help ensure that unnecessary euthanasia is eliminated. It is up to citizens to continue the positive momentum and adopt from the shelter, spay and neuter your animal, and spread the word about the need to fight for those who have no voice. After all, “the greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated.”
Lauren Biloski
Oak Ridge
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