In response to Altoona's Act 47 plight, I would like to say I am deeply saddened to read that the city is going to dump its burden onto the taxpayers of the city.
City officials obviously believe they can live off of the taxpayer when that is not how it is supposed to be. There has to be another way - like how about taking a smaller pay for awhile or taxing big organizations like Altoona Regional Health System.
Another thought would be to change back to a mayoral format and reorganize the whole city and how it is run. Give new people a chance to run the city and make sure that all city employees live in the city. Another thing to possibly consider would be to make sure there is no nepotism or favoritism amongst city workers.
Also keep a watchful eye on rental properties to make sure that the landlords are keeping the properties up to code.
The city seems to be loaded with rentals that do not seem to be keeping up with the codes. Make landlords responsible for the properties that they own, especially those sliding by on an article of agreement sales.
Hire a main street manager, someone who is savvy enough to know how to attract business for the downtown area. Get downtown running again, make it beautiful and be proud of it.
Let's be proud of our city and stop the negative gossip. We can do it.
Georgette R. Hostler
Altoona
