The three ideas that stand out in my mind, for good and for bad:
- a community center. As an idea, it's great. But looking at the state of the state's economy and general economic downturn, does it qualify as a good investment for a town of less than 3,000 people? I'd rather see a short-term plan to support small businesses and development in the town to bring people here, and generate a greater need for such a center.
- small business loans. Micro-loans are gaining popularity in developing nations throughout Africa and Central and South America. Why not extend that idea to local businesses? An investment in small businesses helps in both the short-term and long-term.
- web site. A blog like this site could be great, but it doesn't compare to an official, permanent and evolving Town web site. We shall see if progress has been made by the December board meeting.
The overarching theme of the meeting focused on a question: what is the plan for the town? Right now I can't even guess at what that plan could be. Until the board and community leaders articulate what their vision of the town looks like, and strategizing about doing good things in Sardinia is like throwing darts in the dark.
Business's can apply for SBA loans if qualified - I don't think it would be the town (taxpayers) responsibility - has the ring of a bailout! A community center would be a taxpayer issue for the town residents. It would have a MULTI PURPOSE responsibilty to the residents - providing the youth, seniors and organizations a place to gather.
ReplyDeleteThe town web site I think has been a on going issue with the county. It seems some one there has been stonewalling Norm in his efforts to have it become reality - HE has NOT been dragging his feet on this issue. Yours I agree was quick, but it is NOT THE OFFICAL SITE of Sardinia - BIG DIFFERANCE - I do welcome your site for blogging. I'm sure the county will get their act together and provide Sardinia the same respect as 90% of the other towns and have it's own web site. Are you aware that the Highway Guy still hasn't got a website up and running - been 4-5 months at least. Would really be nice to know highway conditions in the town that he could provide - hearing about it at a town board meeting is AFTER the fact!
You mentioned the meeting on how best to fund projects in the town with a surplus of over $2.5 million. Many were turned off after MANY months of work and input when basically 3 people changed the Comprehensive Plan in a last ditch effort to provide for a landfill expansion. To many who worked on the C.P. (all voluteers and well known, long time residents)it was very dishearting to put forth all that effort and see it basically blown out of the water over GARBAGE. It will take many years and a SINCERE town board to gain their support and trust. Something I feel the last 3 years under the present Supervisor has turned somewhat in a positive direction. Now we just have to see how that moves forward with the 2009 board makeup.