Bob's conversation with a concerned resident

Bob's conversation with a resident

(from resident to Bob)
I live in Columbia Heights and have for a long time. At the moment I have three small children and don't usually go out for a drive after dark. Last week I did so and realized that the businesses along Central Ave. in Columbia Heights are looking shockingly shabby. Approximately 1 in 3 businesses had light bulbs missing from their light up signs. Ex. 'Moon Buff' instead of 'Moon Buffet'. It was comical at first to read the signs, but then it got to be sad. Then there is the rusted out sign for the Central lofts that is the 'face' of the condos along Central Ave. that I drive by almost every day. It looks abandoned and messy as they haven't even bothered to put in some grass or any kind of landscaping along the avenue.

I'd like to know if you have any ideas on how to remedy this problem? It seems that light bulbs and a bit of grass along Central Avenue are not that expensive and could go along way to making our city look more appealing to people who might want to move here? -Or even those who are driving through. I want to be proud to be from Columbia Heights.

Are you aware of this shabbiness that has set into the business sector of Columbia Heights? I look forwards to hearing what your plans are to give the city a face lift as the next mayor of Columbia Heights.

I look forward to hearing from you.

(Bob's reply)
Hi (name withheld)

The restaurant business has been hit hard. When people cut back on expenses, they usually cut back on eating out. A friend of mine worked for a restaurant in UpTown that went out of business about 10 days ago. The food was upscale. It could also be that the Moon Buffet is unaware, has asked to have it fixed, or is unsure about the economy. With the stock and bond market plunging downward, it does give one pause.

Central Lofts did not sell all the units and knew that they would not all sell. In this market, the condos are unlikely to sell for some time. I talked to someone a few days ago and his mortgage deal fell through. So he went ahead and paid for his new home with 100% cash, while still owning the house in Columbia Heights. He didn't need a mortgage and he still did not qualify.

With the bond market dropping, the City's plans to build on that plot of land without the grass is in doubt. Naturally, if the City plans fall through, grass seed is cheap.

I also walk Central Ave the full length frequently. There are a lot of seeming little things that could be done to reduce the clutter. Like getting rid of old concrete light supports.

The present Council likes to dictate to business. The fire department in one case I know of stated that if a fire ever started in the owner's business on Central, the fire department would let it burn. The owner has refused to put any money into his building. Because of the City's attitude, the building is beginning to crumble due to a lack of maintenance.

Negative incentives achieve negative results. I have talked with a number of business owners. With better treatment they would respond in a more positive manner. Naturally, it is in the best interests for locally owned businesses to maintain Central's visual appearance. Even in economic hard times, businesses want to and need to maintain a good image, just like the City needs to

The stock/bond markets have put a lot of things on hold.

I would like to hold an art or craft fair along Central. That would bring in people and customers to our local business. Any money made would go back into upgrading Central to be more pedestrian friendly. Get restaurants to have seating outside. Give an award to the most improved business on the outside based on citizen input. Plant trees or small Lilac bushes to green up the area. I have been thinking about this for some time. A lot of small things could greatly improve the appearance of Central Ave.

Businesses used to be proud and would sweep their sidewalks every day. The things you talk about are small and can be done. We also need to let the businesses know that the City's government is proud of them. Taken all together, this would help all of us to be proud to live in Columbia Heights.

Naturally more could be done. But it would be a great start in tough economic times.

What do you think?

(resident's reply)
Thanks for your prompt answer. I realize that the economy is in the dumps, but I believe that if you can't keep what you have taken care of within your means, you've lost half the battle. My husband's family is from Mexico. Everyone on his side of the family has less than we do, but no matter how little they have, they keep their things neat and clean. They may not have a lot, but they take pride in what they do and show it by taking care of it simply. They also have self-respect.

I guess I can't expect govt. to fix this problem, as it is more of a cultural thing, but the govt. can set the tone if they wish. I almost always vote for the non-incumbant in Col. Hts. city politics, because it seems like the same guys keep circulating through the mayor's office and other offices for the most part. Thanks for your efforts and good luck in the election.

prepared and paid for by the Bob Odden Campaign for Mayor