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Our Opinions can town afford it? Grove Hill town council members debated the proposed hiring of a new street superintendent Monday night. On one hand is the argument that with just five people working between the street and water departments, more help is needed. The other side of the coin is the fact that the town’s finances aren’t in the best shape right now and it may not be the best time to be adding to the payroll. Both arguments have merit. But the issue may be much deeper than just hiring an additional person. Current street superintendent Larry Williams has been on the hot seat previously for job performance and it appears that there may be some reason now for wanting to shift him completely to the water department where he does much work now. It also seems likely that Mayor Willie Welch has a specific candidate in mind to hire as street superintendent although he has not publicly named anyone. It was apparent by the wide range of opinions Monday night that the issue had not been fully discussed with council members before it was put on the table. Better communication between the mayor and council is needed on this and other issues as Grove Hill struggles through tough times. ‘Why did you let this happen?’ By David G. Bronner By voting down Gov. Riley’s Tax and Accountability Plan, Alabamians have decided that the past has more appeal than the future. Hopefully, the Governor can soon restore trust in government, and our citizens will realize that the lowest taxes in America do not provide the right opportunities for its citizens. Within 48 hours of the defeat of Amendment One, I received two calls from German companies unrelated to each other. Both companies have operations in Alabama and both strongly expressed deep concerns about the rejection of Riley’s plan. They clearly stated to me, "Do the people of Alabama not understand that we need educated employees to be able to expand operations in your state? Why did you let this happen?" The lack of government funding this year will not only slow our economic and educational progress made over the last decade, but will stop progress in its tracks with the next budget starting in October 2004. I trust Gov. Riley will do whatever is necessary to protect Alabama’s two most valuable assets: our children and seniors. Alabamians must prepare themselves for a continuous rash of bad news and serious problems over the next two years—if not longer. This is from the Adviser, the newsletter of the Retirement Systems of Alabama. Bronner heads the agency.
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