Editor, Times-Union: I have a private library of my own, I must reduce in great number. I want to give away (free) books, stored now in large egg boxes in separate titles, such as science/physics, math/accounting and business and others. There are about 25 books in each box.
Please call me at 269-3913 and I will deliver.
Albert Smith, Warsaw
Jail Expansion
Editor, Times-Union: Mr. Robinson was quoted in the Times-Union about not having any letters or any adverse comments on the jail expansion and that the public must concur with the expansion. First of all, I would say this is only partially true. Secondly, before one can voice a difference of opinion one has to have some correct numbers and facts to go on. Both of which some in this county have seen not fit to give. But in the May 25 issue of the Times-Union there is finally the official figures that have been sought. And they certainly do not add up to anywhere near $24.3 million. Last December, I spoke with a County Commissioner on this total expansion cost as well as the EDIT issue. The following points were told to me:
1. The estimated cost of the expansion was $7 million: $2 million for the jail's additional floors and increased exercise area and $5 million for the work release justice area.
2. These areas could be added on and built with either no increase or with very little increase in taxes. With very little financing involved, as there was money available to pay most of the cost and a final pay off in two to three years.
3. When asked about these available funds, I was told that the commissioner didn't have the exact figures but was around 5 million or there about, the exact figures was on record if needed.
4. In any case, this county was not poor and did not need EDIT or any real serious outside financing to build these additions. But there are special interests that think the county should have a showcase building and county offices consistent with the surrounding counties (and the debt as well).
Mr. Hershel Rainwater, of the CCC, attempted to find out this money amount but was given the run around by the county, I was told by unofficial sources that it was between $5-1/2 to 6 million. Mr. Tandy, in the EDIT hearing, said it was closer to 2 million. But in the May 25 issue, we finally get the official money figures - $5.6 million. Making what the county commissioner and my own information a lot closer to the available money than Mr. Tandy's. So now we have figures to go on. If we take what the County Commissioner told me about the 7 million estimates, we get 7 minus 5.6 gives 1.4 million to finance. If we take the 5.6 million and subtract the 2.2 million purchase of the Lake City Inn for the work release compound then we get 5.6 million minus 2.2 equals 3.4 million. Which will be more than enough to build the jail addition. Or leaves 3.4 million to finance and not 24.3 million. I urge everyone that can, to attend these meetings and put a stop to this tax and spend, spend and tax irresponsible attitude.
Marvin Gunter, Warsaw
Leesburg Parade
Editor, Times-Union: The committee for the Leesburg Memorial Day parade was very pleased with the community participation as well as the great gathering of spectators. Prizes for the parade entries were provided by Farmer's State Bank.
The ceremony at the Leesburg Cemetery was very well attended despite the light rain. The Rev. Hartman of the Leesburg United Methodist Church was the speaker. Justin and Randy Hartman provided the music.
Refreshments were served for all in attendance at the Robert and Sandra Allen residence by the Allens and the Leesburg Brethren Church.
Sue Charlton, Leesburg
Semi Accident
Editor, Times-Union: My name is Rod Corle, I'm from Bourbon, Ind., I am wriing to the editor after reading Jim Wells letter in the June 1, 1999, paper. Yes, Sunday there was an accident involving two semis. Yes, the driver was probably driving 50 mph. Yes, it does take a greater distance to stop a big truck. Yes, I have also seen cars run that stop light or should I say play beat the truck. But where do you get off saying that's the big truck's fault? Tell me why it's the semi's fault for the stupidity of ignorant people's driving? Where do you get your info, pal? Have you ever ridden or even been in a semi? Just think about it before you play beat the truck. Whether it's a semi, straight truck or even a pickup, just think.
Rod Corle, Bourbon via e-mail
Stop Lights
Editor, Times-Union: I am a former resident of Warsaw, I've read through the Internet about the many deaths on 30. Even when I lived there, a lot of people had lost their lives on that stretch of highway.
In Ohio where I now live, on the busy roads that have stop lights, they place a sign about a quarter mile from the light that, if the light is going to be red by the time they reach it, it has flashing yellow lights that say prepare to stop for red light if lights are blinking. Why couldn't something like this be used on 30? It gives truckers plenty of time to prepare to stop and would save many lives.
Teresa Sensibaugh via e-mailÊ
Good Samaritan
Editor, Times-Union: I would like to put a thank you in the paper to the person who bought me a flag and flew it in my yard, with a note that read:
"I pass by your house everyday and I miss seeing your flag flying in the wind so I got you one. All I ask in return is that as you fly your flag, please pray for this country of ours." (signed - an admirer.)
