Published: October 13, 2009 12:41 am      

WO council looks to apply for ‘green’ grant

In an effort to “go green,” the West Orange City Council voted Monday evening to apply for a grant which will help the city become more energy efficient.

A resolution was passed for the city to pursue a grant in the amount of $20,000. If approved, the grant will be used to replace the air conditioning units at the city hall with more energy efficient units. However, if the grant is not approved for the new units, city officials will seek other energy conservation ideas for which to apply.

In other city business, Cindy Fertitta, primary prevention specialist/education coordinator at the Rape and Suicide Crisis Center, appeared before the West Orange City Council Monday evening and was given a proclamation. It proclaimed October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. She reminded council members the impact of domestic violence is wide ranging and affects people of all socio-economic backgrounds.

In 2008, 136 women lost their life due to domestic violence. The numbers have increased to more than 200 so far in 2009, according to Fertitta.

The West Orange Holiday in the Park is coming up soon. It is scheduled for November 7 at Alford-Seale Plaza. Booth reservations for vendors are still being accepted.

Other holiday events include the tree lighting at the park with other festivities in the community center. It is scheduled for December 7.

The next city council meeting is 5:30 p.m. on November 9 at the West Orange Community Center located at 2700 Western Ave.



Debby Schamber is a reporter for the Orange Leader. She can be reached at 409-883-3571 ext. 2609 or at dschamber@orangeleader.com.