A quick heart-to-heart with BC

I have a lot on my heart these days. The good news is that my heart is in great health. So… allow me to start with that.

HEALTHY HEART

In May, I had a routine heart procedure. Putting those two words together may seem like an oxymoron – like “jumbo shrimp” - but as a physician, I know the leaps and bounds medicine has made with safer, less-invasive surgical procedures.

I discussed the procedure with Jill, my family, friends, and with the executive leadership staff in City Hall. I did exactly what any other leader would do: I assigned mayor pro tem Sherri Jorgensen to handle any matters while recovering (as is allowed in the city charter).

My physician declared the procedure to be a success, and I am in great health today. Be sure to wave when you see me walking in my neighborhood for exercise.

HEARTS OF GOLD

In July, I was pleased to see Boulder City Police Department Volunteer Cherie Anderson and the You Are Not Alone (YANA) team receive a Certificate of Recognition from the office of Governor Joe Lombardo. Sonny Vinuya, the Southern Nevada outreach director for the governor, explained that Governor Lombardo had learned of the YANA program in the news and was inspired by seeing how the volunteers care for elderly residents that may not have family nearby to provide support.

“We recognize and applaud your commitment to making a difference by providing companionship, support, and hope to the senior community,” the certificate read. “Your dedication has touched countless lives and strengthened the fabric of our community through kindness, generosity, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. I wish you continued success and many more years of meaningful service in our community.”

The city council plans to recognize the YANA volunteers at the next city council meeting on August 11. More information on the program is here: www.bcnv.org/YANA. I would encourage Boulder City seniors to take advantage of this great program.

HEART OF THE MATTER

Decorum is a critical standard for each city council meeting. According to Robert’s Rules of Order – basically the instructional guide for federal and state agencies, cities and organizational meetings – the chair is responsible for a clean, orderly meeting. The chair starts the meetings, has the discretion for setting time limits for comments, and enforces rules. In Boulder City, the chair of city council is the mayor.

For years, this council has not allowed signs or props, regardless of the viewpoint. The legality of a ban on signs in city council meetings was affirmed as recently as July 2023. The 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that “in limited public form, such as city council meetings, government entities are permitted to restrict the form or manner of speech offered by members of the public, even if such speech addresses the topic or agenda of that forum.” Individuals are prohibited from bringing signs and props into Boulder City meetings, as they distract from the business at hand and may restrict public viewing of the proceedings.

All are welcome to express viewpoints from the podium, but avoid disruptive conduct, such as yelling, applause, whistles, heckling, and speaking loudly with others.

KIND-HEARTED WISHES

Finally, as the school year kicks off, I want to take a moment to send best wishes to our teachers and staff. Jill and I know you have a tough job, and we appreciate all you do to help our next generation learn and grow.