To the editor:
As I celebrate my 28th year owning a home in Manville, I am filled with disappointment. I just learned that the only retail space in town that can hold a supermarket in being subdivided into three smaller retail spaces.
I cannot believe our elected officials could not solicit a major retail grocer into our town. Potential jobs are now lost. Just what we need, more empty retail spaces. Just what the town needs.
I feel you people have failed in your position to represent our town. Main Street Manville is filthy dirty. Buildings are falling apart. Jaywalkers on Main Street are allowed cross wherever and police never enforce the no-jaywalking code. In fact, why are there no police walking “the beat?” They can be citing people for littering, loitering, spiting, jay walking and posting graffiti.
And what is going on with the space known as Rustic Mall?
Come on. My taxes are up; my home value is down some 35 percent. Our town needs to share services. Someone needs to take charge and get this town moving in the right direction. Police need to be more present. Store owners need to be out in front of their retail space with a broom. We need better parking for our retail store fronts.
We need people in office who are problem solvers. This administration does not appear to be those people. It is time for a change in the way business is being done. As a taxpayer and voter, I will exercise my right, in court and in the voting booth. Taxation without representation is not something I will stand for. My current tax rate based on the fictitious home and land value is just that.
Do your job or get the heck out of my way. Manville people demand a grocery store and a clean Main Street and police walking the main drag.
Russell Rogers
Manville

