Letter To The Editor: Montezuma Housing Study
Osky News
Editors Note: The views and opinions expressed in this editorial are not necessarily the views or opinions of Osky News
Dear Mr. Wymore:
Kudos to you Ron Hensel, Joel Kercheval and all members of the Housing Study committee. I agree that a municipal ordinance requiring standards for property owners is of great value and is an excellent first step.
In addition, I suggest a total community effort involving all community organizations and including the high school. Superintendent Versteed at a recent board meeting encouraged student volunteerism. Community service should be built into the curriculum. A number of schools in the state have very strong and effective student community volunteer organizations. Volunteers from all over the area should participate. A successful community does not stop at the city limits. All residents have a stake in Montezuma even if they live on a farm, an acreage, or at Lake Ponderosa.
Page 23 and 24 reports there are 172 homes and apartments in run down condition. Don’t believe these figures? It’s like saying your doctor is wrong when he/she finds a serious illness. In my view the framers of the report were actually very conservative in their findings.
Page 8 of the report states, “The future health of the school depends on housing growth.” I feel the success of the school and overall appearance of the community goes hand in hand.
The high school and all service organizations should be involved in some area of community improvement. The Lions, American Legion, VFW, Knights of Pythias, Lake Ponderosa Association, Farm Bureau, and all churches should have a role in improving deteriorated housing. Improvements could range from raking the yard of a low income elderly resident to painting and carrying off debris.
How do we start? The Boosters should conduct a public meeting encouraging representatives of all organizations to attend. Next, a matrix should be made identifying homes and commercial structures needing attention. Then, volunteers should sign up for each task. These are baby steps which will help solve a major problem. This is all about pride and feeling good about the community.
Respectfully Submitted,
Dr. Hugh Hammond
