Medford City Council News And Issues

 

In the city of Medford, there are many ongoing projects that have been discussed, many of which will also be observed by the mayor.

 

Medford Public Library Position

Recently in an hour-long meeting, many of the counselors that were applying for the Medford Public Library position were concerned about when the position would be filled since the retirement of the former director. There is an interim director, the library’s long-term assistant assistant director, who is also applying for the position. Although it would seem likely that this individual would be more skilled for fulfilling the role of the director of the library, other applicants would indeed be considered.

 

Issues Regarding Senior Workers

Another issue that was very prominent, not only at the meeting, but also in the news, where tax abatements that would be granted to seniors. They would be able to receive these abatements for exchange when working in the community, giving them about 1000 dollars to offset their tax bills. There will be many positions that will be offered to seniors, although the exact nature of the positions was not presented except for greeters that would be at the front of City Hall. This is an easy position that can be done by someone on a part-time basis, and would fully qualify them for the discount on their tax bills.

 

Issues Regarding Social Security

A concern that most seniors have, as well as people that are working right now, is how long Social Security will actually last. It was designed to be there for people that reached the age of 62, providing them with some type of supplemental retirement income, but the longevity of this program is coming into question.

 

Discussion About The Bomb Threat

Finally, school security was a very important topic as a result of a bomb threat that occurred at the beginning of February. This was at the Medford high school, and many parents and teachers have complained about the lack of security and recommended that things be tightened up. It was agreed that it is far too easy for anyone to gain access to the school through the front entrance, whereas at the middle school and elementary schools, they already have protection in place. A meeting with the superintendent would occur to discuss these issues as presented by parents and others that want to have more security at the high school, something that will definitely go through once the funding is there and it is approved by the mayor and council.