E-MAIL TO THE EDITOR: Mayor Lists Other Projects Funded By Local Revitalization Funding

On Monday, the City Council approved a series of new public infrastructure projects to be funded by the recently approved Local Revitalization Funding (LRF) bonds which are funded by the State. The Council also reconciled the City budget to reflect completion of LRF projects which were already identified in the City's adopted 2011-2012 budget. The following projects will go out to bid within two months:

*Completion of fire sprinklers in a portion of the Civic Building garage;

*Garage/elevator improvements and exterior lighting, landscaping and painting for improved security and safety;

*Expanding Market Place from 1-1/2 to two lanes;

*Completing the exterior pedestrian staircase from the front of the Civic Building to Drexler Drive;

*Development of plans for completion of the Lot 8 portion of the Town Center Garage (south of the Civic Building).

In other action, the Council approved a change order for the Curran House Roof Replacement. The CHIPS (Curran House Investigating and Planning) volunteer group obtained a $40,000 grant from Pierce County to help renovate the roof of the Curran house. After the contract was awarded, the contractor discovered a rotted beam and problems with insulation. As a result, the Council approved a proposal for the additional work, all of which was covered by the grant from Pierce County. Special thanks to U.P. resident Art Broback for his assistance with this project.

Also, congratulations to everyone involved in the University Place Festival celebrating the City’s 16th birthday. Thanks to Councilmembers Denise McCluskey and Caroline Belleci, the Tacoma Events Commission and countless volunteers, the festival was a wonderful day featuring great entertainment, local community booths, vendors, food and lots of fun.

Upcoming events:

*Drive Throughs – Final determination on whether to allow additional drive throughs along Bridgeport Way from 35th to 44th will be determined at the August 15 council meeting. For background information, please see past Mayor Updates online at www.CityofUP.com or contactkbriske@CityofUP.com or 460-5405.

*Pups in the Park – Flying disc dogs, doggie contests, food and fun await you at the 5th Annual Pups in the Park on Saturday, August 20, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Cirque Park. Sponsored by SUNDogs, the event is a fundraiser for the off leash dog park at the Chambers Creek Properties. Admission is free with a minimal registration fee for doggie competitions. For more information, please visitwww.updogpark.org

Back to School Supplies DriveIt’s hard to believe it’s almost back to school time. Families Unlimited Network is hosting its annual “Back to School Drive” to collect items to help prepare kids for school. Please consider dropping off a few of the below items at University Place Presbyterian Church, 8101 W. 27th St., or Families Unlimited Network, 2610 Sunset Drive West. Specific supplies needed include:

Pencils

Ball Point Pens

High lighters

Colored pencils

Markers

Glue Sticks

Regular Folders

Binders

Sweet 16 Bowling!

Continue celebrating U.P.’s birthday at the Narrows Plaza Bowl AND support U.P. Parks & Recreation on   Wednesday, Aug. 31 from 10 a.m. to noon. Bring your family and friends for unlimited bowling at 16 cents per game (shoes not included). All proceeds from games will be donated to the U.P. Parks & Recreation and Senior Center programs. Thanks to Narrows Plaza Bowl, located at 2200 Mildred St. W, for their support. Reservations recommended via phone at 565-1007 or www.npbowl.com.

As always, I welcome your comments and questions. Please feel free to contact me at dklosowski@CityofUP.com.

Sincerely,

Debbie Klosowski

Mayor, City of University Place