Let s strike
Patience may be a virtue but striking while the iron is hot also has its advantages. Several issues spark this observation.
First, Marion County Commission learned Monday that Westar Energy is looking for a location for a coal-fired electrical generating plant. The deadline for the decision is January 2006. According to Westar representatives, there haven't been that many applications for the facility. Seems like a prime opportunity for economic growth in Marion County.
But with a deadline of less than four months that doesn't give the county commission much time to form committees, appoint task forces, and study the situation indefinitely. So, strike while the iron is hot.
Another issue dealt with the City of Marion's decision to purchase a new fire truck. Outdated firefighting equipment has been an ongoing concern in the community. At last, the city commission has agreed to purchase a new pumper truck.
The truck will be equipped to Marion Fire Department specifications and delivery time is six to nine months. So, in this instance, patience is a virtue. After a long wait, a new fire truck has been approved and will become reality.
In another matter, the City of Marion has been asked to consider changing its form of government. Clearly, it takes some research and planning to make such a change. But the commission shouldn't waste a lot of time pondering if "this is something the residents really want."
Residents are the ones who brought it before the commission. Residents are the ones pushing for the change. Seems that question has been answered. All this heel-dragging won't make the question go away. Patience doesn't always win. Let's move forward.
Granted, we've elected commissioners — city and county — to do the job of representing us. They are entrusted with the duties of looking at issues and determining the benefits. There's no argument that it's a difficult job.
Once in awhile, however, it might be a good idea for commissioners to listen to constituents. All the research and paper-shuffling in the world won't get anything accomplished.
Those who have a strong desire to see change in the city and county should talk to their commissioners. Urge them to come out from under the big pile of statistics and paperwork and look at what's going on around them. Urge those commissioners to stop dragging their heels on matters that need quick decisions. Prod them to get off the fence.
Someone once said "if nothing changes, nothing changes." Being patient won't always provoke a positive outcome. Hesitation can kill progress.
— DONNA BERNHARDT
