Residents urge action after near-miss on Stewart Mill Road; DEFax board raises building-security concerns

During the citizens-and-delegates portion of the July 2 legislative work session, two members of the public raised separate safety concerns.

Cindy of Concord Way described a near-collision on Stewart Mill Road involving a vehicle exiting the Kohl's shopping center and an 18-wheeler that she said forced the car up onto the grass; she urged closing the shopping-center driveway to prevent a serious crash. Council members and staff said public-safety staff would look into the location and that jurisdiction (city or county) would be clarified in follow-up communications.

Later, Albert Lee, speaking on behalf of the Douglas County DEFax Board, said the board leases a city-owned building that is about 40–50 years old and has outdated security: intermittent key-fob operation, no cameras, and a need for safer entry systems. City Manager Marcia Frasier said lease negotiations and counsel are handling the matter and staff would follow up to address safety concerns for employees who work at the facility.

Why it matters: Both matters affect resident safety and employee security at city-leased property; council directed staff to investigate and follow up with the speakers.