Today's H&R, (good reporting cudos to Ken Lowe) reports on a frustrating situation in Decatur that was brought to light by Mr. Robert Maulding, a neighborhood resident, on the near west side of Decatur. As noted in the article, over 300 police reports have been file related to one block in the city in the last six months. Quoting from the article: "I spoke to this council two and a half months ago," Maulding said. "In that time, we've had six assaults, a murder, a rape and who knows how many burglaries."
This appears to be one of many examples of where this form of government lets down citizens and neighborhoods in Decatur. Simply put, if Decatur elected representatives from discrete areas (or wards), would these citizens have a voice and advocate for these challenges.
We say YES.
We know that citizens do appproach select council members and often receive attention and help. However, we rarely see these neighborhood issues raised to the level of a study session, change in policy, a financial commitment or a vote. Too often, the results seem weak.
Comments