Unanswered questions

Editor,

Last week, a Meet the Candidates forum was held on private property.

We listened to presentations that all seemed centered on “affordable housing.” 

When the program turned to questions from the audience, the format suddenly changed to, “We’re done but the candidates are here and you can talk to them one on one.”

It was disappointing because many of us wanted to see these folks think on their feet. I wanted to hear questions from our community.

Maybe someone would have asked, Mr. Mayor, how did the city lose the old high school property that could have housed city offices and overflow parking? Why did you cross lines on the Becky Gillette property that cost us $40,000+? How are we preparing for the roundabout? Is it true it will take 18 months minimum to build? How was this decision made?

I have personally spoken with members of several city departments and the departments have not been asked to do research or give opinions. I like roundabouts, but I think this needs to be re-thought, especially how it slows emergency vehicle response times.

New sidewalks on 62 – who determined that the stretch between Planer Hill and the old high school have more foot traffic than Harts to 23 S?

In light of recent excess city money, isn’t it time to hire a certified planner instead of [spending on] temporary Christmas lights?

Everyone is town has known for months that Bobby Ray was retiring, and yet you haven’t advertised the job. Isn’t this the mayor’s job? Public safety?

Council, since the mayor’s office now has a real salary, why would the office still have an assistant?  Shouldn’t the assistant’s job be eliminated, reduced or redefined? Isn’t that a budget item that you have control over?

Knowing what we know about people quitting jobs, etc., what systems have been integrated to keep the city running smoothly?

Council and mayor, do you think the process to elect CAPC members is correct?  If not, what are you prepared to do about this?

Mr. Ott, how can you want to represent the voters and city when through your own actions you showed us how to not follow rules?

I wished I heard some of our community questions. 

Pat Matsukis