Letter: Residents’ voices not being heard

I have begun attending Cedar Rapids City Council meetings but, unfortunately, I have been discouraged by council responses to those who comment or try to participate in governance. After speaking during the public comment portion in a recent council meeting about my concerns in providing tax relief, especially for the purchase of new furnishings for a business that was planning a move to another building in a complex that previously received a tax abatement for construction, my comments and that of others were dismissed by some council members.

Apparently, our comments are not welcomed by council and we should be happy with choices the council makes. Although I wanted to respond to council comments, I sat through the admonishment and, instead, began considering future actions regarding city politics. My first step has been to apply for a seat on one of the board and committees appointed by the mayor. If selected, it is my intent to learn the process of that board/committee and to listen to all sides of issues.

Many residents with whom I have spoken feel they aren't being heard on issues ranging from the city's spending policies to closing of streets, the expansion of bike lanes, and confusing lane and street changes downtown which appears to be discouraging many from going downtown. I hope the council will listen to this public call to action: get out and vote to direct where our city, state and country is headed.

James Mart

Cedar Rapids