Public commenters press council on Fairmont project, code enforcement and local staffing program

Several residents used the public‑comment period to press council on neighborhood and public‑safety matters.

Arthur Christian of Fairmont Avenue opposed the proposed Fairmont rezoning, calling planned four‑story buildings incompatible with the low‑density neighborhood and raising safety concerns about an alleged sinkhole; Catherine Christian reiterated concerns about public notice, the 25‑foot Braddock Street setback and preservation of mature trees. In response to concerns about process, staff and councilors said the PUD revision is a first reading and that site plan review and existing proffers still apply.

Mike Higgins (Ward 2) described repeated graffiti and a cited property belonging to his 73‑year‑old mother, urging better coordination between code enforcement and police and faster follow‑up so vulnerable residents are not left to manage problems alone. The City Manager and code staff described existing practices (door hangers, certified mail, contractor abatement and possible liens) and councilors urged an education campaign and volunteer support for residents unable to complete remediation themselves.

A sheriff who spoke introduced Liebert Brooks, a service member temporarily assigned to local law enforcement under a program the speaker said is paid by the U.S. Army; the commenter described the assignment as cost‑saving for the city and useful for transports and courthouse duties while the service member is on temporary leave from active service.