Thursday, October 1, 2026
As mayor, I have the privilege — and the responsibility — of seeing our village through a wide lens. I see our residents going to work, attending school, raising families, caring for elders and supporting neighbors. I also see the roads they drive on, the parks their children play in, the pipes delivering their water and the sidewalks that connect one neighborhood to the next.
What I’ve come to understand, more than ever, is this: Our individual wellness is inextricably tied to the wellness of the community we live in. And that begins with strong, reliable, and well-maintained infrastructure.
When we think about wellness, it’s easy to focus only on health care access, diet, and exercise. These are crucial components, of course. But wellness is broader. It’s the air we breathe, the water we use, the safety of our streets and the integrity of the public spaces where we come together. A cracked sidewalk may not seem like a health issue until a senior trips and ends up in the hospital. A pothole might seem like just a nuisance until it causes an accident. A park that goes without maintenance becomes not a haven, but a hazard.
Our infrastructure is the foundation — literally and figuratively — on which we build healthy lives. And like any foundation, if we neglect it, the structure above begins to crack. In a time of changing weather patterns and aging utilities, the need for resilient, forward-looking infrastructure has never been clearer. We must not only repair what’s worn, but also prepare for what’s coming — stronger storms, higher demand and the evolving needs of future generations.
That’s why my administration is doubling down on community wellness through infrastructure upkeep. We are prioritizing repair, modernization, cleaner water and accessibility in every neighborhood — not just the most visible ones. Because community wellness doesn’t belong to a single ZIP code; it’s a shared investment in our collective future.
Let’s talk numbers. Every dollar spent on preventive infrastructure maintenance saves taxpayers between $4 and $10 in emergency repairs down the line. That’s not just good budgeting; that’s common sense. But beyond the numbers, it’s about dignity. Every resident deserves to live in a village where clean water flows without question, where streetlights work and roads are smooth, and where you can walk your child to school without dodging broken pavement.
We are currently undertaking a full review of our infrastructure systems, and prioritizing areas most in need. This includes road resurfacing, stormwater management upgrades, and long-overdue repairs and upgrades to our water, electric and gas utilities. At the same time, we’re integrating wellness-centered design into these projects: more green spaces, safer walking routes and improved lighting. We’re also exploring sustainable materials and renewable-energy solutions to ensure that every improvement supports both today’s residents and tomorrow’s environment.
Equally vital to our community’s health are our essential and emergency services. We’re investing in modern equipment and upgrades, with the assistance of the county for emergency services that serve our village. These hardworking professionals and volunteers are the first to respond when a crisis strikes — whether it’s a storm, a fire or a medical emergency — and they deserve the best tools and resources available.
We are also strengthening coordination among departments to ensure faster response times and more efficient communication. By supporting those who protect and serve, we’re reinforcing the safety net that keeps every resident secure.
Of course, this work is not glamorous. Infrastructure is often invisible — until it fails. But if we truly believe in building a healthier, more equitable village, then we must have the courage to invest in the “bones” of our community, not just its surface.
That’s where you come in. Community wellness isn’t just the responsibility of Village Hall — it’s a partnership. I’m calling on residents to engage with us: Report issues to the village, attend public meetings, volunteer, and hold us accountable to our commitments. Your voice matters. Your experience in your neighborhood is the data we need to make smarter decisions. Together we can shape a community that not only functions well, but thrives — with safety, beauty and pride.
Let’s remember: A healthy community doesn’t just happen. It’s built — pipe by pipe, street by street, park by park. Let’s build it together.
Samuel Nahmias is mayor of the Village of Lawrence.
