After so many years of seeing somewhat mundane articles, letters and editorials, it is quite refreshing to see spirited interaction. No matter if we agree or disagree, it is always positive to communicate. Nonetheless, communication is also a two way street, we need to talk and we need to listen. I have watched some televised debates and wonder how either side can listen when they are both talking simultaneously. That is the specific reason these letters are not only important but are an integral part of the small town culture.

As for the Dower Lake Pier, I really don’t care where the money came from as much as I care about the amount. The discrepancies in figures between what was reported by a news channel or what was actual, bears little weight in the overall picture. The money had to come from somewhere, but did it have to be that much? I think not. My point is, you don’t use the money just because you are able to secure it. That is exactly the attitude which so permeates this society that the term “fiscal responsibility” has no meaning and lends to the reason this country is so financially dependent on foreign aid.

It is reminiscent of the attitude an instructor at the Community College in Wadena had when he bought several computers from me that he didn’t need. “If I don’t use the money this year they will cut funding next year.” It is the attitude Freshwater had when they purchased two printers and sent one to the bus garage. The individual there said he didn’t know why they sent it there, because they didn’t need it and it would probably just “stay in the box.” Then why spend the money on it?

Do we need to spend money and is there justification for our expenditures is the question. We do need to spend money on luring more industry to this area. The expenditures on our several endeavors, i.e. city hall and the police station, could have been done more frugally and the other monies could have been diverted to furthering industry. How much in tourism money do you think the Dower Lake Pier, our new city hall and our remodeled police station are going to generate? When you have industry, believe me, the rest will follow.
Kerry West
Staples, Minn.