Praise the Lord!
The Traffic Control Project contractor is back in town with the long-awaited materials to complete the Traffic Signals project on Main Street. That is all I am going to say on that subject for now. I had just received a letter from a local resident last week, complaining about pedestrian safety on the corners and how cars encroaching on the crosswalks tend to make matters worse. Obviously, we are all ready to have our Main Street back. Let’s hope for the best.
I am beginning to receive responses from my request in last week’s Mayors Corner, and I hope I have not bitten off more than I can chew. Again, I do thank each one of you for your ideas and especially for your willingness to roll up your sleeves and help do the work.
I previously served on Marlinton Town Council for 10 years, 1986 through 1996, and can tell any new council member to expect a learning curve. When I began, we had two-year terms. During the first term, the decision was made to move to a four-year term. It takes the first year to get your feet on the ground and then the second year, council members can be in the middle of projects. Nevertheless, the main reason for the decision for longer terms was to save dollars. The numbers are in for 2023. Poll-Workers for this year’s election will cost the town $4,400.
Also, I can tell you, there is an extreme difference when moving from the council table to the mayor’s chair. It is like day and night. The characterization of drinking from a fire hose fits here. Some days may be easier than others, but topics and questions come at you most days in rapid succession. When you have the answer it’s easy. When you have to search for the answer, it is not so easy.
Lastly, my sincere appreciation for all the Birthday wishes – from friends and several people I do not know who read this column.
Until next time, Thank you, Thank you, to each and every one.
Sam