Town Council is reviewing the feasibility of investing in a CARTA bus route servicing Summerville. For the bargain basement price of $27,000 and some change, there will be a park and ride point in Oakbrook. Over two hundred individuals presently drive to N. Charleston to do just that. In an economy where gas is poised to hit $4 a gallon, this seems to be an extraordinary opportunity. The price is a pittance compared to the parking garage that went $1,000,000 over budget and the purchase of the old teacherage with no plans for its use. This type of spending does nothing to benefit the citizens of the town. The CARTA route would not only be a direct advantage but also may bring tourists from Charleston in for day trips. There you go; the Hospitality Tax has surely been used for much less specific tourist attraction.

Also in the most recent Council meeting, seven member boards came up yet again. Why is this so difficult? Increase the number, choose individuals from currently NON-REPRESENTED areas, and give them a term. The problem is the current board members do just what the administration wants pretty much. Yes, this does in deed nullify the point of even having citizen committees but imagine what chaos would ensue if all areas were given a voice. New ideas and different ways of doing things might emerge. How awful! The other problem on the citizen committees is the total disregard for terms. Almost exactly the same people have controlled the Accommodations Tax Committee as did in 2000. According to the last received list, eight positions on citizen committees are open or past due to be filled and nine should expire in September and December of this year. The Commercial Design Review Board doesn't have any terms listed. Seems like a fine time to do some adjusting.

Last, but certainly not least, it is of interest that the town has contracted the management of the spaces to be leased in the building in front of the annex. It's exceptionally difficult to find a realtor that even knew this contract was available. And the question of the day is, "When was this decision made?" In no council meeting was it discussed or voted on. Every executive session ends with "no action taken". Even if it was decided to let the administration handle this, wouldn't it have to be voted on at some time? Seems odd the things that continuously slide (or slither) under the table constantly benefit the same individuals. Of course these are all fine things to keep in mind as three town council members come up for reelection next May. Maybe between now and then someone will be more openly productive.

With Kind Regards,

Kelly Lax
Managing Editor
The Summerville Sun