There is an ordinance that I believe is going to be voted on in the future. This involves the noise and light nuisance caused by businesses operating in an residential zone. Something that was brought to my attention is that there are already ordinances in place within the municipal code that cover many of these issues, but the new ordinances are much more stringent than what’s already in place.
Tonight, at the Board of Alderman meeting, what I witnessed was a lack.
- A lack of communication – The mayor and the board stated that there isn’t even a final version of the new ordinance to be voted on. On the other hand, the mayor was very apologetic in his comment on this. He did say that he should have been more prepared for this meeting and in light of the circumstances, he was sorry for the result.
- A lack of courage – There was only one person that took the floor tonight that didn’t fall in line with the common rhetoric of the fact that the bill shouldn’t pass. None of the other residential members, mentioned by the Board as being affected by the lights and noise, were there. Or at least they didn’t take the floor to speak. On the other hand, based on the attitudes of some (not all) of the business owners that were there, it would not have boded very well for those residents anyway.
- A lack of integrity – At the beginning the mayor asked who would like to speak. After counting only 6 hands that went in the air, he said that each person would get 4 minutes for comments. He said it would be less if there were 20 people that wanted to talk but gave more latitude in light of the circumstances. However, not only 6 people got up. It was probably closer to 15. On the other hand, I can certainly understand the need to speak your voice after hearing other comments and realizing that there might be aspects that need to be covered. However, if you’re going to do this then please be respectful of other people’s time.
- A lack of courtesy – This was, by far, the biggest lack I saw tonight. With all the people that got up and spoke, the mayor and the alderman seemed to be engaged in the remarks. They didn’t interrupt (except for once, maybe). They answered questions. I felt like they took an entire room of people who were disappointed in them very well considering the circumstances. What happened afterward, was very disappointing. Both of the Alderman that got the chance to speak seemed to be interrupted frequently. The other 2 Alderman didn’t even get a chance to talk.
Personally, I think the new ordinance is useless. There are already rules in place that govern how businesses should operate in a Residential district but no consequences have been pursued. Seems like you shouldn’t try to fix what isn’t even being utilized now.
I do love this town though. This isn’t a sign that Hermann’s broken … just needs some help. There are some great businesses here. There are some great residences here. I do think that tourism is an up and coming industry here and I’m glad to be a part of it. Although, the business isn’t within the city limits and isn’t governed by the city, I still wish to see the city thrive and grow.
My suggestion to those who read this is to be patient with others. “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.” – Steven Covey. We all have our own agendas but it’s when we lay them aside for the moment and the sake of community that we will grow together. We may not agree all the time and luckily we don’t have to … but we do have to live next to each other and I would rather have you sit down with me over dinner and discuss our differences rather than walk to the other side of the street to avoid you.
If you feel I have misrepresented the meeting, please feel free to mention so below in the comments. I’m not above reproach and welcome any and all constructive criticism and conversations.
Cheers.
It is sad that people can’t agree to disagree. We are too quick to believe the first thing we hear and immediately get mad and blast people. Why not sit down and talk it out? People want our town to grow but it shouldn’t be just for themselves. I see both sides-the businessmen (its how they make a living) and the residents (living here and dealing with weekend tourists). Have fun here but think about how you would feel if you lived here and had to put up with inconsiderate people who seem to forget that they wouldn’t want what they do to happen in their town. And it’s sad that people can’t really state their opinion without being ridiculed, or put down, or threatened. And if we want our town to be great, why are we going to news sources outside our town and making a stink about it? We are not helping our town’s reputation this way. Maybe the bullies with the biggest mouths should close them a little bit and open their minds a little more and think of more mature ways of working out problems.
I love our little town. We are blessed with businesses, families, and people who care for all of us, not just themselves. So, go ahead now, crabby people, pick on me for what I’ve just said. Be vocal, rude, and mean-spirited. It’s the best way to solve problems.
Thanks, Susan.
I think the main point questions the way in which the city government is doing things – were they going to vote on this without public opinion was it a personal issue – pretty apparent at the meeting it was – they are susposed to do what is best for the entire community- some will not like it but it should benefit the majority not just a few – it opens a lot of questions that need to be answered –
Personally, I think the “personal issue” is what’s being focussed on more because the mayor is the only one speaking up that can be identified. However, I also think that there need to be some citizens that need to stand up and voice their concerns without having to deal with the mob mentality.
I went to the meeting more to hear the validity of the complaints in favor of the ordinance. Unfortunately, that was not possible because of the interruptions and distractions from some in the crowd.
I agree with you that the majority should be catered to in this situation.
I think one major issue is it’s time to look at the zoning of Hermann espically the Historic District. Many properties here are historic and require large amounts of upkeep a bussiness helps to financially make that happen. Many properties are vacant and an eye sore, yet new guest houses have been stopped by the BOA. THe historic district is no longer a quiet residential area if fact it’s a commercial area and needs to be zoned as such so tourism can continue to go and support this town from a financial prospect.
I agree with your observations we need to work and come together imagine the possibilities.
I think that would be a good place to start!