Commissioner Rich Tamburro

Dear Fellow Citizens,

The tragedies in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania have altered the course of history and our daily lives. Thanks to all of our citizens who have donated blood and other assistance as we unify under a common cause. The stories of heroism are boundless. People who escaped the Twin Towers described the brave firemen: As people hurried down the staircase to escape, the firemen where running up the stairs. That says it all. Firemen and police officers are dedicated to protect and help everyone and deserve our support so please donate to their relief fund directly or by donating 50 cents when you pick up a copy of the City Observer at local stores, businesses or you can make a donation at City Hall.

The Federal government has asked all cities to increase security and Lake Helen is responding. As Water Commissioner Liaison I am meeting with Rick Mullen to help design a security system for our water supply. So far our idea includes sensor lights and video cameras at our well site and storage tank. We are looking into the possibility of having the video signal being sent to a police officer via laptop computer over the Internet or satellite signal. We have automatic generators for electricity in place already.

The Lake Helen Fire Station has been approved for relocation to Main St. just west of Summit Avenue. As you may recall, there was a moment when DeLand and Arvida approached the city to move our fire station to Victoria Park. I immediately placed this issue on the City Commission meeting agenda and looked for public support to retain the firestation in Lake Helen. Many residents voiced their concerns and the City Commission worked together to ensure the station stayed in our city.

Planning for the future ensures that we determine our quality of life.

Recently I asked the City Commission to consider a future population study based on current residential zoning. The Commission liked the idea and authorized the study. The study cost about $1,000 but the information generated is invaluable for planning our future. Current zoning allows a future population of over 12,000 residents, a density greater than Deltona. As the city prepares to evaluate the Comprehensive Land Use Plan with visioning meetings with our citizens, this information allows visualizing twenty years into the future.

Most of our narrow paved streets are rated for thousands of cars per day. This would clearly disrupt our neighborhoods. The state allows a change to the rating if we do a traffic study. One problem with the city’s ability to handle a large population is the roads. There are not enough east-west connectors to carry people from exit 55 to Prevatt Ave. where much of the city’s open land for housing exists.

Lake Helen is at critical time and place in its long history. Being located on the I-4 corridor and having to meet the demands of growth and increasing operating expenses poses concerns. I believe future commercial growth near I-4 will provide an additional one half million dollars in annual revenue - someday. I favor being very conservative with tough residential growth management regulations while we await the arrival of large revenues. The city currently has almost six months operating expenses in reserve.

Thank you for taking the time to read this,
Vice-Mayor/Commissioner Rich Tamburro.