It is a subject matter that has been talked over for several years by different county commissions, and complained about endlessly by county people: highway repairs.
Problems about streets needing repaving display up continuously in Sound Off phone calls to the Chronicle. Any person who drives by means of sections of Citrus Springs can see for themselves the cracked, pothole-ridden roadways. In all probability several motor vehicle alignment professionals have benefitted from citizens who reside in Citrus Springs and have to generate the damaged roads each individual day.
It is likely to take a lot of revenue to accomplish the infrastructure repairs, especially because they’ve been overlooked for really some time. But finally, all five county commissioners agree something has to be carried out.
In moment of political courage, Commissioner Jeff Kinnard stepped ahead with some frank criticism about the latest and past boards.
“We have not performed a fantastic position, not just this board but previous boards, in funding our infrastructure repairs, our routine maintenance,” Kinnard reported.
Kinnard additional exhorted his fellow commissioners to take a look at funding mechanisms from putting a income tax referendum on the ballot to raising the millage price.
County Administrator Randy Oliver claimed just one funds product is etched in stone: $10 million to $14 million on a yearly basis for highway resurfacing and the county has grappled with that for several years.
Kinnard is appropriate, and it’s not much too late to get the ball rolling on repaving. Ample with the speak, let us see a genuine approach of action.
County Engineering Director Brian Kauffman identified three funding alternatives: Improve the millage. A 1-mill hike would make $10 million impose a special assessment versus benefited houses check with voters to take into account a local choice revenue tax. A 1-cent raise would produce $12 million to $16 million.
Commissioner Kinnard summed up the circumstance with possibly what most county residents have been wondering.
“We can all discuss about how we assist it and preach it but if we really don’t fund it we’re just blowing incredibly hot air.”
The county has kicked the can down the road for far too prolonged. Now is the time to take care of the challenge.
