Council members were only doing their jobs

To the Editor:

The editorial on the bottom of the page of Saturday's issue was worded a bit strong. I believe the writer went a little over the top on that one.

She pronounced shame on the City Council members that opposed the youth center at the Conservation Club. It is no shame in doing what they were elected to do, which is, taking care of the city business.

A lot has been said about the youth center and the grant of money to bring it about. A lot was said, but how much was thought? There are several points to consider on this issue.

No. 1 -- In the same meeting we were informed of the budgetary shortfall, causing city officials to consider draconian measures in order to meet the obligations. There will be cuts in expenditures and needed measures will be postponed. Details are available at City Hall.

No. 2 -- This grant only covers a portion of the projected cost of this program. The city will have to come up with the rest. If there already is a budgetary shortfall, where will this money come from? Will we have to do as the federal government does, rely on deficit spending?

No. 3 -- The common cry is "We need to do this for our youth, our youth deserve this." I am informed the original purpose for the Roy Clark building was a center for the youth. What happened there? Then there was the center on E. Vincennes Street. It too failed. I am told because of a lack of interest by the youth. Is there any indication that this proposal will be more successful than the predecessors? That's a large investment for a project that has already failed twice. What is it about this project that makes it more acceptable to the young people?

Instead of calling down shame on the council members that opposed this issue, I think they should be applauded.

The article ended with a thinly veiled threat, which I think was not appropriate.

Do I detect some animosity here against one of the members concerning an issue in the not-so-distant past?

Again I say, my hat's off to the council members who were dutifully doing their job!

Thanks for listening,

Robert M. Weyer

Linton