Springfield leaders: Residents can push for state, federal help on immigration

https://springfieldohio.gov/draft-letter-template-and-contact-information/

“This letter is designed to help you advocate for more support and balanced policies that benefit both current residents and newcomers,” a note on the website indicates. “Your voice has the power to influence significant change.”

The letter highlights some of the issues created when the city experienced the sudden increase in population of 12,000 to 15,000 Haitians. It notes the rapid growth has strained local resources and services, including schools, healthcare and safety services.

At their last commission meeting, city officials detailed some of steps they have taken to seek policy changes and additional funding to alleviate some of the pressure on essential services.

Mayor Rob Rue reported he has met with Congressman Mike Turner on a number of occasions. Turner recently visited the community and held a press conference at the Rocking Horse Community Health Center where he committed to seeking federal funding to ease pressure on needs for public health, schools, safety and language resources.

In July, city officials sent letters to both of Ohio’s U.S. Senators, J.D. Vance and Sherrod Brown, highlighting the urgency of housing needs in the city.

Rue reported in the commission meeting that he has had multiple conversations with Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and members of his cabinet. City officials have also been seeking funds for translation services from federal and state sources. Rue noted that might help bridge the communication gap in driver’s education among Haitians.

Traffic safety has become a common concern expressed by members of the community following an auto accident involving an unlicensed Haitian driver that resulted in the death of an 11-year old boy. The driver has been convicted of involuntary manslaughter and fourth-degree felony vehicular homicide, which is now under appeal.

Rue said he shares the concerns others have voiced about unlicensed and uneducated drivers.

“I personally am concerned about the traffic. I’ve almost hit and been hit myself ... I have kids that are learning how to drive … I have the same fears that you as moms and dads, as grandmas and grandpas, as aunts and uncles, have.”

Rue pointed to a new possibility of addressing such concerns in conjunction with the Ohio Department of Public Safety, the Ohio Highway Patrol and local law enforcement. The proposed effort would include a 30-day blitz focused on enforcement of laws against reckless driving, including red light violations, speeding, and distracted driving.

He said the effort would be publicized in advance and the goal is “to bring attention to the enforcement of driving laws on our roads. ... It’s not a fix but it’s a start.”

Rue also issued a plea to Haitian leaders in the community to ask members of the Haitian community to stop driving without legal licensure and to seek the education needed to drive cars.

“Please, please, if you’re a pastor or can communicate to Haitian people, ask that they please stop driving without proper licensure …please drive safely on our roads.”

Efforts to expand engagement with Ohio senators continue. City Commissioner Bridget Houston cited a planned meeting with Senator Vance. She met with the Senator’s staff in April and talked with them about concerns for police and fire funding, both stretched thin as the result of increased city population.

Commissioner Tracey Tackett reported she had been unsuccessful in multiple attempts to meet with Senator Vance, who had cancelled scheduled meetings on five occasions. She expressed hope she could join Commissioner Houston in her upcoming scheduled session. She recognized members of Senator Sherrod Brown’s staff for their recent presence and involvement with the Springfield community.