At Tuesday's Town Council meeting one person spoke up and expressed dissatisfaction about spending priorities.
Why, he wondered, was the town using its equipment, staff and materials to pave a private unpaved road outside of town limits? Why was a 12' right of way clear cut 25' wide? Why was this a priority now, with tough financial times and when so many of the town's roads had potholes?
The Town Manager later explained there was a long standing agreement with the owners of a radio tower (WPSK) which allowed the town to place an emergency signal on it without charge. In exchange for this, the town had agreed to maintain this private road.
Since the agreement was made, the town hadn't really done any road maintenance. So now it appeared to be the right thing and right time.
What was surprising was the looks of shock on the faces of council members.
Once again it appeared town resources were being used in ways council had absolutely no idea had been agreed to. This leads one back to the Town Charter and what it allows.
Who has what powers? What dollar amounts can be automatically spent without council's vote? Where are the executed contracts detailing what the town is getting in exchange for services or granting special rights? Why isn't this information provided to council members or found on the town's website?
We suggest every voter, every taxpayer and every council member go back to this document and read it. Carefully.
As the speaker pointed out, not everyone has the luxury of driving a town vehicle -- if we hit a pothole and need a new tire or alignment, we pay for it. Again.