Courts complex choice fails long-term test
It is unfortunate the new county courts complex is going to be built in downtown Bentonville. The money expended on the site study for the Southwest 14th Street location was a waste of taxpayer funds. That location was never given serious consideration despite being a better long-term solution.
There exists a mistaken belief that the courts complex drives the downtown economic engine. I would argue the opposite. Construction is going to affect businesses. Traffic congestion will be a long-term problem. Disruption to court operations will occur, and long term consequences of the decision will become evident. It makes no sense from the standpoint of long-term strategic urban planning. The mixture of neighborhoods, recreational areas, stores, restaurants, etc., does not co-exist or benefit from a courts complex and parking garage. Judicial complexes are more efficient when centralized, allowing for savings on manpower and transportation costs, enhancement of security, and room for expansion. The downtown location accomplishes none of this.
The initial overall savings may amount to several million dollars, but 15 to 20 years from now, the same issue of inadequate space will be revisited. Visionary planning thinks ahead to the future, recognizing long-term needs and objectives. I don't see that happening with this decision.
Mark Bernthal
Bella Vista
Gun legislation not about creating better future
Bill 1249 "has gone through a rocky history," as Sen. Trent Garner said, because it's a bad bill. I'm not going to tell him (and the other 17 senators who also lost their heads and voted for it) that they sold their soul to the NRA or that they misread what most Arkansas want, especially those whom it directly affects.
My concern is the precedent being set through the message being sent. The bill isn't about protection (colleges have that with their well-trained public security departments and nearby city police officers). My concern is that the Senate should be leaders who create a better future for their constituents. You're telling us the world is ugly and dangerous and getting worse.
I disagree, as do statistics.
Come fall, I am not afraid of being on my college campus or in my classroom. I trust and respect my students and colleagues to continue making good decisions, whether they choose to carry a gun or not.
I just thought we elected people who mirror our better natures.
Maybe next time.
Sabrina Chesne
Bella Vista
Commentary on 03/21/2017