Sidewalks in Franklinton

What in the world would we need more sidewalks for? Because our citizens don’t deserve to have to walk in the street! Right now, if a child walks from Franklinton Elementary School to Franklinton High School, they either have to walk down Main Street (a DOT highway with speeds of 35-45 mph) to get to a sidewalk, or they have to walk down Hillsborough Street all the way to the high school before they see a sidewalk. Now that the school bond has passed and the current Franklinton High School facility will eventually become Franklinton Middle School, I believe more than ever that there must be safer routes for citizens to travel around the Town of Franklinton.

Until I ran for office, I truly had no idea how big Franklinton really is…and I’ve lived here most of my life! Because of this, I’d really like to see the town become more pedestrian friendly. Of course, that’s going to take some money. I’m not about to raise taxes to pave some sidewalks. We do have, however, a program in North Carolina called the Powell Bill. The Town receives funds from this Powell Bill from the State (from gas taxes). These funds can only be used for streets and sidewalks – paving, maintenance and improvements. This year, the Town received about $78,000 from the Powell Bill funds from the State. We also have some unspent Powell Bill money that’s part of the town’s Fund Balance – the town’s savings account. Over time, those funds could be used to expand sidewalks, a little at a time. A little adds up! What do you think?

Gall and Nerve

You know somebody is bold when they steal from the Mayor. I am fired up right now! I just got home from my third night in a row of being at Town Hall until 9:00 or 10:00 at night. I went by my parents' house and my dad said, 'Did you know your chime was missing?' I asked him, 'Didn't you take my adirondak chairs?' Apparently, he didn't. I figured he'd taken them to power wash them. I was wrong.

Someone, between Friday morning of last week and Tuesday morning of this week, came to my house and took my two adirondak chairs and the wind chime my father made for me eight years ago. I have to tell you...I am stunned. What in the world would someone want with my two old adirondak chairs that have no value except to me? The wood isn't worth anything. The chimes were though - they were made of copper. Yet, they left both of my air conditioners! WHAT IN THE WORLD? I'm so frustrated...I don't understand what in the world someone would think of in doing this...if you need firewood that bad, call me - I'll GIVE it to you!

I have to say, though...our Town police came right away. I called and reported the theft and asked for an officer to come to check things out...and they were awesome. I have to tell you...I have some serious love for our police force. These folks work really hard for us...and they work hard for you, too. This is the first time I've ever had to call on them for issues at home - and I sure am glad I can. Keep up the good work.

And to whoever stole my chairs - I hope you get a splinter.