Opinion : Letter to the Editor: Debate observer responds

While I cannot vote in the city election and I did not submit a question, I attended the debate. I am associated with a business in downtown Vinton so what you decide by your vote has an effect on what we pay in city services, etc. If I heard correctly some of what I got out of it was that Vinton is and has been stagnant in growth for quite some time, many decisions are reliant on government programs to fund projects, on some subjects out of state relatives or non Vinton co-workers have more influence with some current council members on the same subject that citizen concerns were dismissed, that currently... Vinton is thought to be more of a bedroom community (snooze), the city website that should be full of what Vinton has to offer is....nothing (if the city isn't even promoting itself how can anyone be excited about it?). The mayor was surprised and pleased that the current council members were knowledgeable and engaged in the debate questions.

There were many many positive things and obviously by the full house in attendance and the number running for office it is a testament to the love of this community to make it/keep it vibrant and inviting as well as take care of those that have lived here their whole lives. Thank you Vinton Today for hosting this debate! Donita Casey