This has been as issue for the last couple of City Council meetings, since Council President Diane Benedetti changed the beginning of the program from an invocation from a minister present to a moment of silent reflection.
Personally, I was not offended because I frequently pray silently through the day. But I did receive several phone calls and messages from people who were offended by this change. Some said that the meetings have began with prayer for over thirty years and saw no reason to change. Others were afraid that the council members were giving in to a minority of citizens who profess no faith or religion. The reason Mrs. Benedetti made the change was that the school children pray silently or not at all and they should have consistantcy.
I have been doing a lot of praying myself, searching for an answer and it was sent to me this morning. Last Sunday I read the Second Reading during services at my church. It was from 1 Corinthians 10:31 11:1,
Paul writes, "Brothers and sisters, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. Avoid giving offense, whether to the Jews or Greeks or the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in every way, not seeking my own benefit but that of the many, that they may be saved. Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ."
Friday, February 17, 2012
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
MONDAY COUNCIL MEETING 2/6/12 (Housing Problems)
There were only 2 items on the agenda at last night's city council meeting but there was plenty to discuss. The main issue was R-12-03 which passed 6-3, and yes I was one of the six voting in favor of this resolution.
It is not that I am opposed to safe and affordable housing for our elderly or that I am opposed to the Reitz building being renovated. The problem I saw was that it appeared that the company would not be able to proceed without the tax credits. Additionally, I could not see how this company could make a profit with the numbers we were given. The cost of renovation was around 12 million, and each unit costing $167,000. With the rental income being generated at an average of $500.00 a month or so, how will this generate a profit? It just did not seem that the Sterling Group had done the profit amount of research.
The other proposed housing development, the Summit Springs, was not even discussed at the meeting. I do not believe this development is necessary, especially considering the proposed location.
There is sure to be more to come, especially concerning the Reitz building which is in a prime location and would make a beautiful building for loft style apartments.
It is not that I am opposed to safe and affordable housing for our elderly or that I am opposed to the Reitz building being renovated. The problem I saw was that it appeared that the company would not be able to proceed without the tax credits. Additionally, I could not see how this company could make a profit with the numbers we were given. The cost of renovation was around 12 million, and each unit costing $167,000. With the rental income being generated at an average of $500.00 a month or so, how will this generate a profit? It just did not seem that the Sterling Group had done the profit amount of research.
The other proposed housing development, the Summit Springs, was not even discussed at the meeting. I do not believe this development is necessary, especially considering the proposed location.
There is sure to be more to come, especially concerning the Reitz building which is in a prime location and would make a beautiful building for loft style apartments.
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