AN OPINION

‘before the storm” clouds – one evening last week

If you’ve read or been reading the series about Columbia, “Failing in Slow Motion,” as interesting and enlightening as the articles are the comments from citizens … some of whom identify themselves and some who don’t.

The comments offer alternative viewpoints, questions, comments and ideas for improvement. That’s a good thing. That folks opened their minds to suggest what ought to be considered and talked about. Yes, there was blame. Ultimately, though, blame can be shared among all shareholders – those who live, work, shop and play in Columbia and those who are impact the importance of the borough to its neighbors who envelop the borough.

“Unintelligently, I dare ask this question to the Borough’s Supervisory Board as to how did Columbia Borough get here without anyone in a position to ask the very rudimentary of the 5 W’s in their business core! Cast the aspersions not onto it’s citizens but upon the management team whose was elected to lead, guide and manage their freely and knowingly accepted responsibility that was bestowed upon them with such trust.“

“I’ve long thought Columbia should allow for development of their river front. Restaurants, shops, bike/walking trails would bring some revenue to the town. I’d be interested in the projected economic impact of such improvements.” [Columbia news, views & reviews note: That boat has puttered away with highly discounted tickets.]

“Wish as all the states posted this. I would be sure to check and see how bad the inspection was.“ – This comment is about the lousy outcomes from the food serving establishments inspections. [Columbia news, views & reviews note: We believe that the lack of transparency with regard to the borough’s peculiar penchant to conduct its own food serving establishment inspection system contributes to insular thought channels.]

“It’s finger pointing time and everyone is invited.“ 

“They spent thousands on a football field instead of on their failed educational system. The town has chosen to be worthless. They prefer to be on wic, food stamps, and ss.”

“Looking at their Financial Report for the year ended 6/13 they had $20,776,763 in total revenues, or, at 1,310 students, $15,860 per student. That is well above tuition at virtually all private schools in the area. I’m thinking the problem is not on the revenue side but on the spending side.”

“The days of pensions and health insurance provided by the employer are over. Columbia can no longer afford it’s own school district and needs to consolidate. The taxes are killing homeowners. People can”t sell their homes. Just drive through town every block has multiply homes up for sale. Major changes are needed.”

“I have an idea; plan ahead. Governments should try it sometime.”

“We have missed many opportunities over the years to revitalize Columbia because of the lack of vision of some of the leaders!”

“Perhaps we should audit the school board, and the borough.”

Now it’s time to get to work. Let’s find a way to turn away from the self-seeking special interests champions and their paths and programs of insular idiocy to find ways to fix what’s broken.