Ward 1: Dwight Hogan

I do not support the Central Corridor Project (CCP) as it stands. I believe development should come from the private sector, not the government.

We have an existing tax base and the CCP will cause serious damage to the homes, businesses and jobs represented in the project development area. Proponents of the CCP say the project will allow new development, but forcing our existing small businesses out of business under the guise of economic development makes no sense.

The city did not involve any of the businesses, residents or property owners east of 13th Street on the committee that approved the current plan until the night they voted on the plan. This doesn't make sense either.

The CCP streetscape plan will burden the taxpayers to the tune of $11.1 million and that does not include updating the water, storm sewers and the sanitary sewers.

The West End Plan diverts traffic off Seventh Avenue to Sixth Avenue. This traffic goes by our library, a day care and city hall. In addition, this plan moves more traffic within one block of the new junior high school. Additionally, there will be drive access lost by businesses on Seventh Avenue.

Our city streets are in major need of repair. What good is spending $11.1 million to make our downtown look good when the streets getting there are in such bad shape? Our city spending is out of control with tax increment financing, urban revitalization grants, out-of-state consultants and projects that have not benefited the citizens. Taxpayers aren't getting their money's worth, and the city is asking for more.

Here's a message for City Hall: Taxpayers are maxed out.

In talking with residents and business owners, I repeatedly hear they want two things from the City: better roads and fiscally responsible spending of our tax dollars.

I pledge to work for both as your representative on the Marion Council.

Dwight Hogan is a 50-year resident of Marion. He has worked as an engineering tech, has 27 years in the insurance industry and currently is a sales representative for Sealant International. Comments: dah880@gmail.com