Looking back over the past four years, there were many accomplishments in which I played a part in bringing about for the betterment of the community. As a board, during the first three years, we resolved the sanitary sewer backup problems in ward two with completion of the S.E. Sewer Interceptor project. We improved pedestrian safety along Allendale Lake road by constructing the sidewalk from the school yard past Hitt Park continuing on south to Spruce Drive. The board, working together for the benefit of all the community, revised the sewer billing based on water usage instead of an unfair flat rate. Following the county public works department recommendation, we prioritized the worst condition streets listed and repaved 17th and 20th streets. Most gratifying to me was seeing the community coming together with Community Activist Phil Alvarado and getting out the voters to approve the Hamblin and Gambrell street improvement bonds and, finally, getting a traffic signal light at M 150 and Allendale Lake road.

I am proud to have served our community as Ward II Alderman the past four years. I sincerely did what I thought was best for all the citizens with no thought of personal gain. That is how public service at all levels should be, Washington DC, Jefferson City, Independence or here at home in Greenwood. Thomas Jefferson believed a citizen should serve a couple terms, work to address the needs and concerns expressed by the citizens they represent, and then return to their private lives. I, too, adhere to that philosophy. I gladly turn the reins of city government over to the alderman who will replace me in representing ward two.

The new board of Alderman has many challenges ahead. Storm water flood abatement citywide needs to be followed-up on. Bartlett & West, the engineering consultants, are preparing a proposal to abate the SW Drainage Ditch perennial flooding in Village Highlands, Harris road and elsewhere in the city. Upon completion of formulating a Storm water sewer usage fee, the new board will need to approve it to provide the means of funding the federal mandate calling for storm water flood abatement. This is a serious problem especially on the Southwest Drainage Ditch which affects the residents of Village Highlands. Years of lack of oversight and budget constraints have precipitated the huge infra-structure challenges facing the new board of aldermen. We have a comprehensive street improvement plan which needs to be implemented by obtaining competitive quotes and applying the pending litigation settlement proceeds wholly to spend it on street improvements though out the city. The new board should provide the leadership and oversight on the Street Plan of Action with Street Bond money as well as the Quarry Litigation proceeds.

Thank you for giving me the privilege of serving our community the past four years. To the incoming Board of Aldermen, you have my best wishes and sincere hope of bringing the community together for the best interest of the whole community.

Jim Payne

Ward Two Alderman 2006-2010

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