Issues Simmer As Salem Summer Heats Up

As the summer heat finally begins to build, it is also slowly helping to spur discussions all over the City.

While some of the winter issues have faded into the background, certain items are beginning to generate what looks like a sustained conversational buzz. The old issues are sure to return, but for now, other items dominate local news and social media.

The Power Plant

and the power plant are the dominant subject. There are concerns across the board on its scheduled 2014 closing.

At this point, it is too early to know for us other than a huge loss in tax revenue. I tend to agree that in both the short and long term, those who run Dominion really don't care what happens in Salem. Their priority will be to disengage in the most effective (cheapest) way possible for their finances.

It is up to the Mayor to look after our interests, but it must be done in a realistic and proactive manner. We cannot allow them them to just lock the doors and walk away.

Motorcycle Tail Pipes

Every summer, the motorcycles run and every summer the complaints are heard about those bikers who .

As someone who has spent some time on a Harley or two (actually three), I do not agree with the "loud pipes saves lives" approach.

Responsible driving is what saves lives, not unbaffled mufflers. 

Parking Proposal

As the new parking proposal works its way through the City council, discussion on its merits, or lack of merit, is everywhere.

I do not feel that this plan will have a negative impact on City  business. By raising both prices and limits in what are considered "prime" parking zones in the downtown, it should serve to discourage the practice of downtown employees who often take parking spots from potential customers.

New Traffic Signals

Recent comments on the served to both educate and amuse. Yes, it does seem that there is some backed up traffic.

Timing could be improved and maybe synced with the lights at both Lafayette and Washington Streets. This may help, but it would not eliminate the backups. The fact is the volume of traffic is just too great. 

Watch the traffic at Washington Street and New Derby Street some afternoon. Count how many vehicles end up stopped in the middle of the intersection blocking traffic when the light changes against them. Is that the fault of the traffic signals or the fault of an ignorant driver?

City Elections

The Councilor-at-Large race will be the big one this year. It is the biggest field in recent memory. Voters will have choices like never before. There are four incumbents, a couple of others who have run for city-wide office before, and a few newcomers who bring desire and fresh views to the process.

I will be looking and speaking with all of them in preparation for stepping into the voting booth. My vote doesn't always go to the candidate who agrees with me on everything, because none of them do. I like to vote for someone who will study an issue and make a balanced decision based on facts and reality.

Where are you on all of this?