It does not take a study or private investigator to discover that Longmont is on the wrong track. We have had missteps and mistakes. We need to come together as a community and correct our mistakes in order to realize our potential.
The lawsuit with Firestone needs to end. Regardless of whether one supported or opposed the annexation, the fact stands that we have lost our original suit, and an appeal is even less likely to bring about a positive result. Not only has this cost our city the equivalent of more than two furlough days, this suit has also reduced Longmont in the sight of Front Range cities, especially our neighboring communities.
We need to turn our energy and enthusiasm towards revitalizing the Twin Peaks Mall and our downtown areas, growing new businesses, and drawing visitors to our town. We do not lack for great ideas, only the determination and leadership to make them come to life. Longmont’s best days are not behind it, but are yet to come.
We need to come together as a community to recognize and correct our mistakes, let go of petty grievances, and start working to build a better Longmont. Its time for a little less talk (and fewer studies) and a lot more action.
#1 by Dean - August 15th, 2009 at 17:47
I agree. The lawsuit was lost so let’s move on to other things. What’s keeping the fight against Firestone alive: pride? I’m in favor of doing something about Twin Peaks Mall. Great post!
#2 by LE - August 16th, 2009 at 20:31
I’m so tired of hearing about the lawsuit with Firestone. Doesn’t the current council (especially Benker & McCoy who are the biggest pushers of this) think about all the community members in Longmont who attend LifeBridge church? This has got to wear on them and is disheartening to hear that some on their council are fighting what they are trying to build.
And regarding Twin Peaks Mall, now that the developer is going forward with plans to get something going (after a few wasted years of trying to work with council) maybe we’ll start on the right path to bringing good news to this town. Hope you recognize that and will be more willing to work with them.
Good luck to you Katie and thanks for bringing the positive.
#3 by Sally - August 19th, 2009 at 08:50
Right kind of thinking for Longmont, Colorado, and the country.
#4 by RW - September 2nd, 2009 at 10:07
I think council also needs a reality check on its spending habits and the need for prioritization.
We continue to spend money on warm fuzzys while important necessities require extraordinary action.
The Safety Tax comes to mind. The Police Dept should not require a “special” tax to protect the citizens while Rhythm on the River, Fireworks, El Committee, the Museum and Recreation Center are treated as incontestable committments. How about funding the requirements first, then have a “Special – Things We’d Like To Do” tax.
Hopefully you can bring some sanity to the process.
#5 by Bill - September 6th, 2009 at 09:47
Between the Firestone lawsuit and the Boulder County Commisioners fight with RMCC the only people doing well are the attorneys!
RW
It is a standard practice to scare the voters into tax increases by threatening cuts to fire and police. As if out of the entire budget the only “waste” is there
#6 by sandraraven15 - September 9th, 2009 at 06:23
Hi! I was surfing and found your blog post… nice! I love your blog.
Cheers! Sandra. R.
#7 by KD - February 21st, 2010 at 15:25
Katie
Thank you, thank you, thank you!! There has been so much partisanship and fear of progress over the past few years. Longmont has become a town that time and economic growth has left behind while becoming the butt of many jokes from citizens from surrounding communities. We elected you for your desire to move forward – stay the course!