We’re all aware that government “action” is usually accomplished at a snail’s pace. An infirm snail, at that. With all the time and money spent on deliberation, research, planning and the like, it’s a refreshing thing to witness actual, tangible progress taking place before one’s eyes – even when the result does not encompass everything that everyone wants.

The greater issue is this: What kind of message does this send to those who would potentially consider investing in our downtown, especially in a floundering economy, when every positive point makes a difference? When the powers that be, or even the people who elect them demonstrate their unwillingness to invest in their own downtown, why would anyone want to commit their money to it?

Those who always oppose most any action that’s been proposed or taken in regards to the city’s revitalization are in effect stating to the world that the status quo (empty stores, ever more speedy traffic, little pedestrian action) is far preferable to the absolutely terrifying prospect of change in any form. At it’s very basis, that’s what this is – a fear-based, reflexive stab at what they perceive to be ‘menacing’ icons. And while, in most cases, I’m all for iconoclasm (when deserved), I’m sad to say that I think this effort, and the energy expended in this case, is misguided.