Progress happening all over town

I have a number of items that I would like to comment on this month, so this column will be split into several segments. First I would like to thank the citizens and voters of Cape Girardeau for the positive vote on our Transportation Trust Fund 5 plan for the years 2016-2020. This positive vote will continue our street improvements through the year 2020. Citizens will see major street repairs, particularly in subdivisions and neighborhoods over the next year.

n

Staff and Council broke ground on Aug. 10 for our new state-of-the-art transfer station. This new infrastructure has been made possible through a public-private partnership with Republic. The income generated by all Republic trash coming through the new transfer station and their lease payments have made this new facility possible at this time without additional taxes or user fees from our citizens. This is another example of the positive effect of public-private partnerships.

n

Our Police Department initiated in the recent past a program called Neighborhood Roll Call. A group of officers meets with citizens in various neighborhoods at a specified and publicized time. This program started slowly with low citizen participation. However, the program is gaining momentum and attendance is increasing at recent events. I would encourage citizens to take advantage of this opportunity to meet our public safety officers and to also share any concerns in your neighborhood.

n

Our recently announced Tax Increment Financing program for an area of our downtown has begun with the first meeting of the "TIF" commission. There have been interest and questions by developers concerning potential redevelopment projects. This program has tremendous potential in the future as we undertake an effort to conserve and renovate numerous buildings in the downtown area. This is a long-term project but I am excited about the future potential.

n

I extend a welcome to new and returning students of Southeast Missouri State University. These students, as they come to our city, become citizens of our great city and assume the rights and responsibilities that we all enjoy. I would encourage students to accept those responsibilities, act accordingly, avoid littering, and enjoy our community.

n

Finally, there is a lot of "new" at Southeast Missouri State University. I welcome President Carlos Vargas to the university and to Cape Girardeau. I have already had several interactions with President Vargas and feel that he is a very good fit for all of us.

We have other new faces with basketball coaches Ray and Patterson. Coach Tuke will begin his second year as football coach. There is new faculty on campus and a search is underway for a new provost. We also have new Board of Regent leadership with Jay Knudtson, who will guide with skill the multitude of transitions taking place on campus.

Southeast is a tremendous asset for our city and a huge economic engine, as I have been reminded of so often in past years. I salute Southeast, and our city stands ready to assist and support the university as they continue to grow and provide excellent educational opportunities for our area and region.

Harry E. Rediger is the mayor of Cape Girardeau.