Transcript:
Monday, January 8th and I’m PJ Benevich.
A panel at the Alpine Business Alliance seeking ways to restore business losses from the Pandemic has identified affordable housing as a key issue.
But Mayor Catherine Eaves, a contributing member of that committee, shared an On the Money article reporting that is a key issue in many U.S. cities and others around the world.
It reports finding affordable housing in the U.S. is a challenge complicated by insufficient housing blamed on many issues.
But it cites a report by the Economist Intelligence Unit that across the globe, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for average citizens to afford city life.
Cities like Zurich and Geneva in Switzerland, or Copenhagen in Denmark are considered some of the best cities in which to live, but also top the list of the most expensive.
Much like in the U.S., limited inventory is fueling the affordability crisis elsewhere.
But the article reports there still are a few places that seem to be in the sweet spot of high quality of life and better affordability.
It cites Austria’s capital Vienna, which remains a relatively cheap place to live. Social programs, especially its renowned housing system, have kept costs down for residents so far.
A guided hike up Hancock Hill behind Sul Ross State University will be part of a “Wildlife Day” in Alpine scheduled for early next month.
Visit Alpine Texas and Borderlands Research Institute are partnering on the event on Saturday, February 3.
The hike will focus on big game species and conclude later that day with a screening at the Granada Theatre of the feature wildlife documentary “Deep in the Heart.”
The event can boost sales for Alpine businesses when participants have a break between the two.
Between 11when the hike concludes and 4:30 when doors open for the film, attendees will be invited to enjoy downtown Alpine and any specials or events that may be offered.
To participate, let Chris Ruggia know your plans at chris@visitalpinetx.com at so he can be sure your event or special offer will be promoted.
The City of Alpine will resume utility disconnects for past-due accounts. The disconnects were suspended in December but the fees associated with them were not suspended.
Now, disconnects will occur on Wednesday, January 24, along with the fees of 35 dollars each for disconnect and reconnections unless prior arrangements are made.
To escape the cost and inconvenience of disconnections, payments may be made by 4 p.m. January 23 at the drop box outside City Hall or just inside the lobby.
For more information or to make payments on-line go to cityofalpine.com.
The Big Bend Arts Council has announced January and February are both open for art shows at the West Texas National Bank lobby.
Twelve easels are available so artists can bring a few 2-D pieces with tags and just set them on easels.
Let the council know what day and how many you will bring so it can keep track of how many easels are open.
Artists also can still pick a month for their own show in the months of April, May, June, July and December.
The next show is Way Out West and is a general western themed show Thursday through February 27. Entries are due by Tuesday.
Contact Shelly Rogers at 294-1538 or by email at agshelly78@aol.com.
This has been your local and area news report for KVLF 98.7 FM, 1240 AM and KALP 92.7 FM
Local news can be found on our website at bigbendradio.com.