LETTERS: Harris speaks out
To the Editor:
I was disappointed and injured to read on the Internet (I subscribe to this) about the name changes on the streets in the retail industrial area north of 56 highway. When I originally started this endeavor in 1992 the streets were named after each of my children. I felt this was a good way to leave them a legacy where they grew up and where their mother and dad had lived and contributed to the community for 30 years.
When I sold this property to the city in 1997 for $36,000.00, which included 31 lots, I had paid for the installation of utilities and present roads. I knew that the city was the most logical owner since they are in a much better position to merchandise and promote it, as well as handling the infrastructure of development.
The most disappointing part is that the change was proposed without anyone from the city making any type of contact with me to discuss it. Two years ago I got wind of Susan Cooper wanting to make changes. In talking with her she advised it was not priority and was moved to the back burner. At that time I advised her that no business locates on a street for its name. They locate for location, location, location. Nothing has changed, it will cost dollars as well as inconvenience. I have listed a few that come to mind:
Changes in business cards, letter heads and return address envelopes, change address on any sales contracts etc., change on business checks, post office challenges, new street signs and installation cost, 9ll emergency changes.
At this time when money is hard to come by for both cities and businesses, one would think consideration would be given to using this money and energies to rework the nature trail in central park rather than let it depreciate to ill repair. (This was one of my projects also) If it isn't broke don't fix it.
So often people think they need to implement change for change sake. If this has now become a priority item obviously the plate must be empty of any viable business interest or productivity to be occupying the economic development advisory committee and city commission's time and attention.
Again, I am disappointed and hurt that this was handled in this manner. If the roles were reversed and this was handled this way I am sure you would be squealing like a pig under a gate.
Greetings from sunny Florida, we will see you at Old Settlers' Day, my children will be there to see their signs.
Gerry Harris
Rockledge, Fla.
harris32953@yahoo.com
