CITY MANAGER’S REPORT

Week ending October 7, 2011

September building permits

The Building Safety Division issued 218 building permits in September (up from 194 in September 2010), with total construction for the month valued at $33,194,510 (up from $17,423,379 last year). Total permit fees assessed for the month were $164,554 (up from $96,996 last year). Staff issued 13 permits for new residential construction in September (down from 32 last year), including nine apartment buildings with 300 dwelling units (compared to one multi-family building with 124 units last year), and four for new single-family dwellings (down from 30 last year).  Please see the attached memo, building permits report, and summary report for more information.

National Gymnastics Day, Arboretum Open House hosted by Parks and Recreation

The Lawrence Parks and Recreation Department hosted its 4th annual National Gymnastics Day in September.  The event was held to increase the excitement and also raise awareness for the sport of gymnastics. During the two-hour free event more than 250 participants experienced the moonwalk, face painting and gymnastics open gym. The fire department also participated in the event and brought out a truck for the children.

The Parks and Recreation Department along with the Lawrence Rotary clubs hosted an open house at the Lawrence Rotary Arboretum Saturday, Sept. 24.  Recognition ceremonies were held for three gifts that have improved the arboretum, including: the dedication of a bike rack in honor of the late Bob Frederick; recognition of the gift of an anniversary garden by Eleanor and the late George Woodyard and recognition of the Georgeson Monarch Waystation. There was also music and refreshments. Music was provided by Bob Swan and Steve Mason. See attached report for photos of both events.