September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month.
This month was designated by Congress to help focus attention on the need for research and treatment of sickle cell disease. According to the American Society of Hematology, “Sickle cell trait is an inherited blood disorder that affects 1 million to 3 million Americans and 8 to 10 percent of African Americans.
Sickle cell trait can also affect Hispanics, South Asians, Caucasians from southern Europe, and people from Middle Eastern countries. Help fight this disease on a local level by participating in the annual sickle cell walk. Contact Eddie Booth at (810) 814-2998 for more information. All proceeds benefit the Sickle Cell Fund at the Hurley Foundation.
ARPA: Council is ready, willing, and currently allocating ARPA dollars towards community grants. These specific dollars are exclusively earmarked towards local non-profits to do something better than amazing for our residents. Whether it’s providing gap financing for existing projects aimed at rebuilding community centers, providing money for much needed home repairs so our residents can qualify for homeowners’ insurance or homeowner education classes to teach current and future homeowners how to purchase and properly maintain their home for decades to come.
Moreover, we are encouraging these non-profits to shop with local small businesses and contractors so they can reap the benefits of this once-in-a-lifetime funding coming into our community.
Stay tuned for more information regarding how the public can access these services.
SPEEDERS BEWARE! According to resolution 230211, much needed speed humps have been approved and will be installed throughout the city next Spring. All speed deterring apparatuses will be picked up in the Fall and reinstalled in the Spring.
POINT OF ORDER: City Council approved a resolution resolving that a parliamentarian is secured through a professional services contract to assist the Councilmembers. Although this resolution was not favorable among all members, the services provided will help with the effectiveness and efficiency of Council & Committee meetings.
CONGRATULATIONS: Kudos to Joseph King (2nd Ward) for his six year reappointment to the Ethics & Accountability Board expiring June 2028,
Jeff Horton (2nd Ward) for his three year appointment to the Flint Planning Commission, Martin J. Banks for his three year appointment to the Local Office of Compensation Commission, Wendell Jackson for his three year appointment to the Board of Review and to Micheal J. Harris for his four year appointment to the Local Office of Compensation Commission.
We look forward to them serving our community with pride and integrity. The Flint City Council is looking to return to their newly renovated and ADA accessible chambers in September. Resolution 220440 has been approved to assist the city clerk to totally revamp this space to be more accommodating to all residents. Please contact the City Council Secretary at (810) 766-7418 for updates.
Yours in Service
Dr. Ladel Lewis-2nd Ward Councilperson
