Perspective

I am stunned by some comments on different FB threads about this ITA issue; people are missing the point, not understanding the dismay,  not attending meetings, skimming what they are reading. Just as “facts are facts” - attitude is attitude.  Some are taking the attitude that if you can’t fix it get out of town, or if you want diversity, move. Really? Where did you all come from? Never fell on a hard time? Never had a relative on a fixed income? Don’t know any elderly or poor people? Drive around judging those less fortunate? There are however a number of people I talked to that expressed the opposite feeling and genuine concern for those that are having difficulty maintaining.

That question was raised last night “What does the city have in place to help those that simply cannot afford to do these repairs?” The answer is absolutely nothing. The responses from the Mayor were – “The city is limited in what they can do” “…may be investigating that particular aspect down the road” “…may look at grants” Why the wait? Apparently the time is now!  This didn’t happen overnight – there has been ample time for the city to be proactive.

Many want to see better options for assistance. We are a small community – can’t be compared to any other neighboring city. Since the housing stock is priority, residents must also be. Residents don’t get our small town feel when it comes to the city administration and hesitate to turn to the city. Many residents feel their concerns fall on deaf ears. Two individuals pointed out last night that if there is difficulty maintaining to begin with then they may not be able to get a loan in the first place, or have trouble paying that back.

It’s not as black and white as it is being made out to be.  I am sure there are some that really don’t care and are disrespectful to the neighbors by their lack of maintenance and attention to property, but don’t act like that is everyone that received a notice. Talk to a variety of people, attend the meetings, and be willing to look at it from each individual point of view.