The "B" Word

It seems like a century has passed since Ossining last changed the Historic Ossining Banners.  Not that supporting the History of Ossining is bad, it’s just that they have been up so long no one really notices them anymore. The day has finally arrived when the Downtown Committee approved the purchase of new banners using a $250,000 fund that was supposedly given to the Village by Harbor Square developers in order to improve the business district. Truth be known, it's my belief that the dollars were taken off the top of the sale price and that the Village should NOT need the developers consent as to how we spend those dollars. There are so many improvements needed and those funds could help with so many projects. One of which has been accomplished.

Banners you say; what will Banners do? It sends a message that says we care about the businesses that have stuck with this Village for many years without seeing any change at all. It's the perception of the beginning of change. The banners are colorful, inviting and noticeable. For almost a year now, anytime I mentioned the "B" word everyone seemed to cringe as my campaign for new banners seemed miniscule compared to other important issues; and it was. However miniscule, I am thrilled that something, just anything, having remotely to do with Harbor Square move forward to completion. I believe we should have an audit as to how much of that $250,000 is left in place, as it has been sitting in this fund for years and is desperately needed to accomplish change downtown. One thought is to spend it on attracting a Downtown manager, whose only job would be to attract businesses to our area. I'm all for that! 

So now I wonder what my next more important challenge will be. Hey maybe the "C" word... for CONSOLIDATION of our courts and DPW. Now that's something to sink your teeth into!