Editorial/Op
Central – Full Steam Ahead
By |
The announcement by Mayor Mac Watts this week that he will not seek re-election in 2014 got me thinking about the journey we have all been on since Central was incorporated. When the incorporation train left the station nine years ago, the 27,000 Central passengers ranged from skeptical to committed, with a bunch of people in between. Personally, I supported the incorporation of Central and signed the petition to bring it to a vote, and I’m glad I’m on the train.
The milestones this city has passed on this nine year journey are nothing short of impressive. I have spoken with many outside of Central who have watched our progress and note those same accomplishments. Central is among the most financially sound cities in the state, posting budget surpluses every year. We have a Master Plan that can work well to make all growth in Central smart growth that preserves our community identity. We have plans in place to improve traffic and infrastructure as we grow. Without trying to list every accomplishment and challenge of these first nine years, I think we can agree that the train is still on the tracks and making progress.
I believe now is a good time to take a moment to thank the conductor, the crew, the passengers, and the people who laid the track this train runs on. To our Mayor, Council Members — past and present — and Chief of Police, thanks for the things you have done to keep the train fueled, on course, and safe. To the many volunteers on our commissions and committees, thanks for all of the unseen things you do to keep the engine running. To the ones who laid the tracks even before there was a train, the dozens who worked quietly to make the incorporation of Central possible, thanks for your vision and perseverance. Finally, to the passengers, the people of Central whose votes and taxes actually make this train run, thanks for helping to create Central, the greatest place on earth to live and raise a family.
0 comments