Submitted by Nancy Dowling - Special to the Journal
The staff and board of Cottonwood Villa Apartments has been busy formulating improvements for the residents and gradually making these changes become a reality.
According to Director Deb Kube and Board Chairperson Laura Crosley, their immediate goals are maintaining a safe environment and improving a sense of community.
As funds become available, changes to improve the handicap accessibility are being made such as walk-in showers, wider interior doorways and hard surface flooring. A 2017 regulation prohibiting smoking in the apartments is being enforced. Structural improvements are being completed in vacant apartments and over time will be completed in all 24 units.
Social activities designed to foster community among the residents are tenant meetings every 4-6 weeks, bingo and coffee on the last Tuesday of the month, and a group lunch for all residents approximately once a month.
Kube states that they are encouraging grounds beautification with outdoor plants and simple landscaping. The City of Crofton will be handling the mowing and brush removal and Kube noted they are grateful to the Crofton Community Foundation for the gift of a new lawn mower. A long term goal is replacement of the sprinkler system.
New flooring, electrical upgrades, replacing cabinets and painting will address immediate needs, while replacing windows, repairing sidewalks, and creating an outdoor patio will follow as funds permit. Kube plans to apply for grant funding with assistance from Lowell Schroeder and extend a request for financial assistance from area organizations and individuals in the Crofton Community.
Kube adds that Cottonwood Villa maintains a food pantry from which residents can request nonperishable items as needed. She also points out that donations of furniture, curtains and bedding in good condition are welcome since people sometimes move in without basic furnishings.
Current board members for Cottonwood Villa are: Laura Crosley, Neil Pearson, Joan Stewart and Bob Evans, with an open position expected to be filled soon. Staff are Director, Deb Kube; Office Personnel, Betty Hamilton and Patricia Brown; Maintenance Person, John Burke; and Painting, Ray Bonham.
Kube invites persons with questions, comments or donations to call during business hours 402-388-4339 Monday-Thursday 8-3 and Friday 8-12.