Board of Commissioners Update

Hello wonderful residents of Woodland Hills. My name is Sean Killeen, and I am privileged to announce that I was appointed to finish the mayor’s term, ending on 12/31/22. This position was vacated by Mike Ochs’ departure from the City of Woodland Hills on October 27, 2020, after faithfully serving as both a commissioner and mayor. Prior to my appointment, I served on the board as a commissioner.

We have one more announcement as well. To fill my position, we have appointed Sarah Hook as commissioner. Sarah brings much to the Board of Commissioners, and we are fortunate to have her contribution. Her current term will last through 12/31/22.

We always work to achieve optimal outcomes for Woodland Hills and its residents. Please reach out to give us any feedback at whkymayor@gmail.com. We want to hear from you and get your input, feedback, and any concerns. We also have monthly Zoom meetings, which are open for residents to join. Please email us or see our calendar page for information on how to join.

Once again, it is my pleasure to serve you. I look forward to hearing from and working with you.

-Sean Killeen

WOODLAND HILLS NEWSLETTER

Optimism in 2020

  Summer is finally here!!!  2020 has certainly brought its challenges… some of which have never been experienced in our lifetime.  During times like these, it has proven beneficial to “seek the good stuff” and hold close those who you care about the most.  Your elected officials have taken each of these challenges very seriously and are mindful of the impact to our community. 

  The swing sets were reopened recently and our park is being prepared to host the Woodland Hills Summerfest on Saturday, July 18th at 6:30pm.  Gary Brewer and the Kentucky Ramblers will be back in style and ready to perform to their full potential.  Of course, we ask that everyone use caution and not attend if you have any coronavirus-like symptoms.  Fortunately, we’ll all be outside and our large park is very conducive to social distancing.  😊

  We were able to approve city ordinances that positively affected our small city, to include continuing our streak of avoiding a property tax increase once again.  Community input is always welcomed and can be best communicated through the contact avenues below or at our monthly Woodland Hills Commission meetings (currently held via Zoom). 

Very Best Regards,

Mayor “Mike” Ochs

City-wide Yard Sale Canceled

Pursuant to health and safety concerns, we have made the decision to cancel the Woodland Hills city-wide yard sale, scheduled for this weekend. We have not discussed a makeup date for this event, but will keep everyone informed if that occurs. Stay healthy Woodland Hills!

Guidance on COVID-19

To all Woodland Hills residents,

Please review the information below on disease prevention and tools to help you and your Families during this challenging time.

Handling a wide range of conversations involving coronavirus (COVID-19) and overall health concerns in our community can be difficult, especially when trying to parse fact from fiction. If you’re looking for reliable content on the prevention of coronavirus, or dealing with anxiety surrounding the virus, here is some helpful information from leading health authorities.

Disease prevention

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • If you cough or sneeze, do it into your sleeve, or use a tissue. Dispose of the tissue immediately into a closed rubbish bin, and then clean your hands.
  • Clean surfaces regularly with disinfectant. For example: always clean kitchen benches and work desks.

If you feel unwell

  • Avoid traveling if you have a fever and/or cough. Once you get home, make contact with a health professional and tell them about where you have been.
  • If you feel unwell, stay at home and call your healthcare provider.

On masks

Wear a mask if:

  • You are a health worker treating COVID-19 patients.
  • If you are healthy, but taking care of a person with suspected coronavirus infection.
  • If you are coughing or sneezing.

Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with an alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water. If you wear a mask, then you must know how to use it and dispose of it properly.

Managing rising anxiety or stigma

We know that your communities may be feeling anxious, stressed or frightened. Here are some important things to take into account and share with your community members:

  • It’s normal to feel sad, stressed, confused, scared or angry during a crisis. Talking to people you trust can help, like friends, family or your fellow community members.
  • If you must stay at home, maintain a healthy lifestyle, including proper diet, sleep, exercise. Keep up with loved ones at home by email and phone and connect with your larger Facebook community for support.
  • Don’t use smoking, alcohol or other drugs to deal with your emotions.
  • If you feel overwhelmed, talk to a health worker or counselor. Have a plan on where to go to and how to seek help for physical and mental health needs if required.
  • Get the facts. Gather information that will help you accurately determine your risk so that you can take reasonable precautions. Find a credible source you can trust such as the WHO website or a local or state public health agency.

Of course, keep in mind to not share information about someone else’s health concerns (such as someone affected by COVID-19 without their permission).

Very Best Regards,

Mayor “Mike” Ochs

WOODLAND HILLS NEWSLETTER

Here Comes Old Man Winter!

As 2019 nears its end, we prepare for colder temperatures and icy conditions.  Your City Commission has already taken steps to prepare for whatever “Old Man Winter” intends to send our way.   While we always ask for everyone to do their part in keeping the roads clear, it is especially important to do this when snow falls and temperatures drop.  Thanks for all you do to keep our roads safe!

E-mail addresses needed to improve communications: Providing your e-mail address allows us to communicate important information to residents quickly, efficiently and economically. Stay informed. Send your e-mail address to whkymayor@gmail.com. Your e-mail will not be provided to other sources. 

*11th Annual Summerfest scheduled for July 18, 2020 in Hardy Brinly Park. Watch for more info.

BREAK-INS AND THEFT ARE ALWAYS A THREAT ESPECIALLY DURING THE HOLIDAYS

Unfortunately, there is always a risk of home and vehicle break-ins but that risk is always greater during the holiday season. As a precaution please keep all home doors and windows locked while away. The majority of theft from vehicles are the result of them being left unlocked. Make sure to keep your vehicles locked at all times with nothing of value inside.  Please report all crimes and suspicious activities to police dispatch at 574-2111. If you see a crime in progress call 911 immediately.

The Woodland Hills City Commission would like to wish all residents a safe, peaceful and Merry Christmas and a very happy and prosperous 2020.

City Commission meetings in calendar year 2020 will be held on the 4th Tuesday of each month, except for December which will be held on the second Tuesday.  All meetings are open to the public and will be held at 7pm in the First Baptist Church conference room in Middletown.

Don’t forget to order your quality Woodland Hills cap, $10 each.

Contact the Mayor or any Commissioner to place your order. 

Great gifts for any occasion!                     

The Mayor’s Corner with Mike Ochs

Message from the Mayor 7/22/2019

City Council Transitions and More

With the change in seasons, Woodland Hills also experienced its own transitions over the last few months.  Sean Killeen took on a role as City Commissioner from Brad Ricca, and I was entrusted through your votes to become the Mayor of Woodland Hills.  I am very happy to report that Dave Tilford is staying on to continue his selfless service to our city as a commissioner; of course, this is after twelve outstanding years of leadership as the previous Mayor.  While we are elated that Dave is still with us, we are sad to say that Brad Ricca has resigned from the position of commissioner due to his out-of-state move from Kentucky.  Brad’s last day of service was on May 31st, and his contributions to our small city were tremendous.  We wish Brad and his Family a very bright future, as they will all be sorely missed. 

  We were able to complete ordinances that positively affected our small city, to include avoiding a property tax increase from Louisville Metro that could have impacted Woodland Hills residents.  Your city council takes their elected roles very seriously, and will always seek what is in the best interest of you and your Families.  Community input is always welcomed and can be best communicated through the contact avenues below or at our monthly Woodland Hills council meetings.

  Also, after much research and community engagement, the No Stopping signs are now in place and being enforced.  This deliberate action was thoroughly examined prior to implementation and has been years in the making.  The intent is to ensure the safety and property of our residents will be protected and additional damage avoided.  A special thank you goes out to those who participated in our Town Hall on the subject last December.

  Last but not least, please be sure to attend our annual Woodland Hills Summerfest on Saturday, July 13th at 6:30pm.  We are expecting yet another outstanding event with great entertainment, and look forward to seeing you all there!

Michael Ochs, Mayor