South Whitehall, at this point, is actually abusing it's residents over Wehr's Dam. Over 7,000 have signed petitions to retain the dam, with 6,500 of them actually signing the document while at the dam. The Commissioners are not being uniquely stubborn, rather the problem is
politics as usual. Although the dam has been declared structurally good by the state, the township agreed last summer to allow the Wildlands Conservancy to make a case for it's demolition. In a further insult to local residents, the Wildlands' study is being funded by the taxpayers through a grant. Over $200,000 is being spent to make a case which the residents do not want, nor is necessary by any objective criteria. Additionally, the Commissioners feel compelled to defer their decision until which time the Wildlands presents their finished report. In addition to wasting the taxpayer's time and money, the credibility of local government erodes for 7,000 citizens.
photograph by Gregg Obst
As has been observed on a number of occasions here- if it is a decision between history and making some dirty cash, those in charge will defer to those with dirty hands. It's beyond sad- it is an outrage. South Whitehall's newly re-elected do-nothing State Representative has already decided to pass on getting involved.
ReplyDeleteThis plan will ruin that park - I don't think a lot of people get how ugly the results will be for Wehr's Dam Park if the Wildlands Conservancy gets its way. Why is a WILDLANDS organization involved in the management of a manicured PARK, anyways????
ReplyDeletemomma@8:37, it would be fair to say that they have been managing allentown park system for a number of years now. their dominance resulted from a combination of political correctness and out of town park directors, with no feeling for allentown's traditional iconic system. add in public apathy, and you have seen the result. i'm proud to have fought this intrusion for the last number of years, and to continue the fight.
ReplyDeleteDon't Give up Michael!! You are on the right path, and you know it because of all the public support you have received.....PJF
ReplyDeletehttp://digital.lib.lehigh.edu/lvgeology/pdf/pgsLC120plate05.pdf
ReplyDeletegreat picture of the dam and mill