Hello again from Mayor Kim Johnson.

I want to apologize for skipping my monthly article in February. Between a crazy work month and a trip to Arizona, I just had to give myself some grace. Well March is coming in like a lion and a lamb I feel. Luckily, I didn’t hear of any storm damage around our area this last week which was a gift. Even though today (Saturday) is a chilly and windy, Spring is coming!

With warming temperatures, comes needed awareness as we are out walking, biking or just driving around.

Our first spring yard waste and branch collection will be on April 7th. The city is requesting this waste is in a trash container or cardboard box and NOT in a plastic bag. Spring also brings out the golf carts and side-by-sides. Please respect and follow our community ordinances regarding licensed drivers, safety restraints, areas where they are allowed and not allowed, etc. We continue to want all our residents, young and old, to be safe.

Some of you may remember that St. Patrick’s Day was always a celebrated day in my family.

Being raised very Irish, I always knew I was lucky but with age, I realize I am truly blessed. I am ‘luckily blessed’ to be a resident and Mayor of West Bend. I am so lucky to have all our city employees. I am blessed to live in a community with an active school, church life of many faiths, a beautiful Grotto, and thriving businesses. One more blessing were all the awards given to our community by the Palo Alto Counting Gaming Development Committee. I hope you are all feeling blessed as you look out your window and realize the great community we live in. Wait, one more selfish blessing - only 11 more weeks of full time work before retirement!

As always, if there is anything you would like me to be doing as your mayor, please reach out.

Be assured that there is no cost for this column. We are very fortunate to still have an actual newspaper that serves our community. Feel free to contact me at any time at my email (kjkimtalk2@gmail.com) or you can reach me by phone at 320-241-4770.