Can people really control a natural force?

I would like to vote yes for the local-option sales tax extension May 3 but I'm not quite there yet. I see the importance of flood protection for both sides of the river.

I am impressed with the efforts in the Framework for Redevelopment and Reinvestment document provided by the city. I noticed an option listed but not discussed was a naturalized flood plain. I trust the city has done its work in determining the most cost-effective flood control technique.

But I do wonder why we think we should be able to control the natural force of a river doing its job moving water downstream. What city employee in our history decided it was prudent to issue building permits for homes and businesses in the 100-year flood plain without considering whose responsibility replacing that structure would fall to when the 100-year flood arrived? Would we save construction and maintenance costs now by allowing the river to have its space?

We seem to have a difficult part with “maintenance.” Which brings me to the 40 percent of LOST earmarked for “existing” street improvements. The city's Street Department website shows only 15 of 67 pavement repair jobs are “completed.”

No asphalt overcoating or crack sealing is planned for 2011. The 2010 sealcoating list shows none of the 55 jobs completed.

I will vote “yes” when we learn to take care of what we have.

Jerry Gillon

Cedar Rapids