Letter: Columnist wrong about voter knowledge
To the Editor-
Mr. Kontos, in response to your recent column on the fall referenda questions and how uneducated the public is on these issues (Column: The democratic abdication of responsibility, Nov. 27) I can only say this.
Au contraire mon frère. Or, just the opposite is true.
Not only did the city mail postcards to all taxpayers explaining the four questions on the ballot but, I, and the mayor, did a great job educating the public on the meaning of the projects.
Both Mayor Wiza and I were on the radio together explaining the purpose of the projects.
I wrote open letters and spread the word through word of mouth, public media, and the South Side Business Association.
As the public voted I am certain that they knew what they were voting for. It was explained over and over the importance of passing the rail spurs and the Badger avenue projects for the economic growth of our community.
As was passed on to the voter the rail and Badger projects are in a TIF district and will be paid for by the corporations in the Stevens Point Business Park not the taxpayers of our city.
I am confused when reading your column. I don’t think you are giving the citizens in Stevens Point enough credit for being educated voters.
The feedback that I have received from many going into the referenda questions was very positive. They are aware, educated, and excited to be an active part of the current transportation projects.
The current Transportation Ordinance that was voted on by the citizens of Stevens Point is a very positive move for not only the survival of Business 51 but the simple fact that people are now paying attention to transportation projects and the way that their tax monies are spent.
Next spring, it sounds like there will be a referendum question on the ballot to approve the northern corridor of Business 51.
The city is looking at moving forward with raised medians and a roundabout at Fourth Avenue.
The South Side Business Association will keep the public informed of any news associated with this project and others.
As you stated Mr. Kontos, “The citizens of Stevens Point granted themselves this approval responsibility, and they should take it more seriously.”
Au contraire mon frère. They have.
Kevin A. Flatoff
President
South Side Business Association
