There are so many things to cover, I don’t know where to begin. However, I am hopeful that we can get a bit of community input on a few topics.
Just like the old South — and actually, just like in some of the homes built during that time that are still occupied today — I was overwhelmed when I heard some of the residents of Summerville were using terms like “seceding” from Augusta. I know that it simply means to be separated, but why would you want to separate from such a great place?
Is it because you feel you could do things any better? Maybe it’s the fact that you may not be able to get your way in the upcoming redistricting? I was told by a resident of Augusta that if the proposed changes happen, the proposed districts may be “too dark” for the liking of those residents that may be taken in. Either way, the conversations are taking a nasty tone and I’m just upset that this column will be completed before the upcoming redistricting meeting on Monday in the Summerville area.
I am hearing from many on both sides of the issues that this meeting is sure to be a hoot(ie). Some of you all will get that and will get a little giggle out of it. The others will try to shrug it off and not try to seem as racist as you really are.
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Now, I don’t want you to feel bad on your own. I have watched and seen videos from the other meetings as well, so before you jump all over some of my friends in the now District 3 but soon to be District 2, remember there are just as many people who feel a certain way in District 4 and South Augusta.
I faintly remember an African-American lady referring to a certain group of people as “those ghetto people.” That reminds me of my grandfather’s saying that, “everybody your color ain’t your kind.”
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In the grand scheme of things, I believe that everyone in Augusta truly wants what is best for Augusta. Most people move into areas to be with people that have common interest. That is why it’s called a neighborhood. In my opinion, cutting neighborhoods in half is no good, but the question I have is this: Where does it begin and where does it end? You are ok with it happening as long as it’s not on your street.
Speaking of “good government,” if you have not seen the budget presentation done by our administrator, please take a moment and check it out. I am very pleased with the presentation and overall, I’m hearing from other elected officials that they are pleased with his overall performance so far.
The administrator comes in with tons of experience and if you ever attend a commission meeting, you will see first hand how he handles himself. He is a true professional who knows his jobs, and his work clearly shows that he prepared. Pay close attention to his responses and attention to detail in his actions. He is exactly what Augusta needed at this time.
With more things that Augusta needs, we move on to this Stepping Up Initiative, It’s going to be a majorly positive move for Augusta. I’m gathering a few more things before I really lay it all out, but you have to admit that is another progressive move by Commissioner Johnson.
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Speaking of things that Augusta needs, this James Brown Arena debate is getting very heated. For the comment section down below, please let me know how you feel about Augusta getting a new arena.
I think the new JBA will be a great investment for our community. I believe that most citizens feel the same way. The issue comes with the price tag and how to pay for the arena. Keep in mind there are many ways to pay for the arena without it falling solely on the back of the taxpayers.
I am told that Steven Kendrick and the Augusta Economic Development Authority have suggestions for other ways to reduce the debt in the future. They are stating there will be an increase of about $100 per year for every $100,000 your home is worth. That adds up to an additional $8 a month if you did the political math. Is that too much to ask in reference to building something bigger and better for our community? I believe we can bring acts and shows we possibly have been missing because of the size and shape of our current arena.
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A friend of mine who is totally against the arena compared it to another arena. That comparison was a bit unfair, but I do hope we have some of the significant events and shows that the arena will host. The facility they mentioned was Dickies Arena in Texas. I would like to mention they this venue will be host to an NCAA tournament in 2022. What’s the likelihood of a large tournament coming to a city like Augusta? We are certainly known throughout the U.S. (and the world) for the Masters Tournament, so the right building in Augusta could make us a significant player in the sporting event market.
There is lot of different information about cost and how long the tax increase will be. We need to make sure we only put out vetted information. There is no need for scare tactics to push people away. Let’s help people make informed decisions.
I always thought the Regency Mall would be a great location for an arena. However, when that came up for a vote, it failed. So, what is the answer? I say we will never get one. I just wished as many people who fought against things would bring solutions too.
Before I finish this column, I would like to congratulate our publisher, Joe Edge, on the birth of his baby boy. I suggested Michael as a name. It seemed like a reasonable choice to me.
One last thing as we approach the end of this year and get ready for the upcoming municipal elections: Has anyone considered that with redistricting going on, the local elections will be pushed back until… well, here I go getting ahead of myself again.
Michael Meyers is a Columnist for The Augusta Press. Reach him at Michael.meyers@theaugustapress.com
