Cityscape

Water conservation update
Water conservation is working in Healdsburg. We have sent out several notices informing residents and businesses that the state is requiring Healdsburg to reduce our water consumption by 24 percent on a monthly basis as compared to our 2013 use. I am happy to report for the month of May that water use in Healdsburg was reduced by 34 percent versus May of 2013. It is also important to note when this report was submitted to the Healdsburg Tribune, June is tracking 32 percent below what we used in June of 2013. As the summer continues, it is important to continue to conserve water. Be sure and visit SmartLivingHealdsburg.org for information on water conservation programs.
New website functionality and GoHealdsburg app
The new city website, which launched in June, has been well received by our community. The site features increased functionality, better organization of information and easier navigation. City departments are working diligently to keep information current and relevant. Additional features will continue to roll out in the coming months, including an app for Android and iPhone called GoHealdsburg. We encourage you to visit our new site at www.CityOfHealdsburg.org.
OpenGov.com – financial transparency and reporting
The city is working with an online service called OpenGov.com, an online (cloud-based) service that enhances the city’s financial transparency. Financial reporting will be intuitive and interactive giving residents the ability to explore city expenses year to year as well as specific expenses within city departments. The city of Healdsburg’s OpenGov.com will roll out in the late fall or early winter.
Pile driving operations at Healdsburg Avenue Bridge
Pile driving is underway at the Healdsburg Avenue Bridge. Two large (84-inch dia.) steel shell piles are under construction. These piles will replace the center pier that supports the bridge with a larger, stronger new foundation. There will be elevated noise levels in the immediate vicinity and residents in this vicinity are advised to close windows and doors when indoors, and avoid outside use areas during pile driving operations. There will be up to 10 days of the actual pile driving operation from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. between July 1 and July 27. Over this four-week period, a number of days will include welding together sections of the large steel shell piles as these are driven into the riverbed, and also for breakdown and setup from one pile driving location to the other pile driving location within the Russian River. We are happy to announce that this project is on schedule. For additional information, visit www.CityOfHealdsburg.org.
Join Nextdoor.com and connect with your neighbors
On June 24, the Healdsburg Police Department launched its presence on Nextdoor.com, a social media network that allows residents to connect with their neighbors and will be used to share information on crime prevention, safety, public events and emergency notifications. Residents are also encouraged to connect with neighbors and seek recommendations on local services. Sign up at www.Nextdoor.com.
Fourth of July events and safety
Join your neighbors at the annual Fourth of July Community Celebration in the Plaza. The Kiddie Parade starts at 11 a.m., Duck Dash Races are from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and include a pie eating contest, children’s games and activities, entertainment and food. The American Legion Post III will host its annual 4th of July Fireworks Show at the Healdsburg High School Field from 6 to 11 p.m. The fireworks show begins at dusk. Fireworks including “Safe and Sane” are illegal in the City of Healdsburg. Fines of up to $1,000 will be issued to those caught lighting fireworks. If you have fireworks that need to be disposed of, please call the fire marshal at 431-3125.
David Mickaelian is the Healdsburg City Manager. To submit ideas or questions for this column, email ci*******@ci.us.