Our Viewpoint
Council turns back on businesses' wishes

Elected officials are put in office to serve their public. They are put in place because the majority of the voting population believed they were the right person to serve in public office.

There is a certain amount of trust that goes into these positions. Trusts that these "public servants" can, at times, take for granted and allow personal agendas to blur public service.

Public officials are in a position that they must hear the voices of the public and then make decisions that they believe is in the best interests of the public.

That belief was put into action Tuesday, Nov. 13 at the Jasper city council meeting.

Residents wanted a roll back in tap fees and council did as the public wanted. They heard the complaints about the city lacking growth direction and put a plan in motion that would spur new residential and commercial development.

Council heard from a local pastor without water service at his church. They heard his plight and went against the city staff recommendation and ordered the city to help with the repairs on the line to restore water service.

And then council heard from Jasper business people seeking for the city to return the hotel-motel funds back to the Jasper Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. They heard the outcry from fishing tournament promoters and business leaders proclaim about issues they have had dealing with the city's tourism department.

With the exception of councilmen Joe Clyde Adams and Randy Sayers, council voted against moving the funds back to the chamber. Gloria Monzingo and Tommy Adams cast "no" votes and Mayor David Barber broke the tie by voting against the measure. Diane Pace was absent.

In the one issue that arguably will effect the economic impact of the city of Jasper, council voted to keep control of the money with the city and let the debate continue.

"That's what you call local politics," was a response heard during the meeting that fits well as to explaining the city's decision.

Council made their voice heard on Tuesday, Nov. 13. City business leaders and residents groaned at the decision last Tuesday night. It will be interesting to see if those groans turn into votes come May of 2008.

Roses go to....

t Jasper, Newton and Kirbyville for their big wins in the first round of the Class 3A playoffs.