Beautification and Budget. Right after I posted that item about the budget a neighbor called to inform me that there was still a LARGE chunk of more than change in the new budget for the Beautification Committee to spend even though they did not recieve the increase that they had requested. That is some serious stuff Folks because that BC has already proven they don't manage money well judging by some of the contracts that they have made in the three years of their existence.
It is truly disturbing that they failed to do something about the shrubbery at the Bellemade Road entrance from Shelbyville Road. Those arborvitae are not inexpensive. Who decided to plant them in a position where the bottom half didn't get enough sun? They require sun or they die you know? In addition to the two grand the BC got to dole out, they spent over eleven grand for grounds maintenance, but the shrubbery died, the mayor continually asked for volunteers to weed the entrances, the effect lighting was damaged by the mowers that were too big for the entrances, and the street and the yards were watered by the irrigation system at the Moorgate entrance. Good grief! How in the Sam Hill can we afford this Beautification Committe in hard times that are worsening? The expenditure of tax dollars is supposed to be frugal.
Isn't it time that we repealed or amended this Beautification Ordinance? Has everybody forgotten that a room full of residents came out against the thing three years ago, but it was railroaded in anyhow? Always did wonder whose back was being scratched on that deal. Rumor has it that some residents, landscapers, and arbotrists got some sweetheart deals. But, you know how rumors are; they flourish when there is a lack of transparency.
