Archive: Opinions

The Lansing Town Board has demonstrated exceptional wisdom and financial expertise in its recent negotiations with the State. The board agreed to pay about $295,000 to lift deed restrictions on a parcel of land, approximately 156 acres that both town officials and many residents hope will become the new town center. The efforts by the town lawyer have saved some $197,000 from New York State's original price to lift deed restrictions.

For years, Lansing has dreamt of a vibrant town center with shops, walkways, eateries, housing opportunities and market space. State Legislators proved themselves real servants of the people by reversing a law that limited the land to parkland and recreational use. That dream is becoming a reality.

Elected officials are often accused of poor stewardship of public finances and resources. We often hear of politicians spending tax dollars on special interest projects such as the "Bridge to Nowhere."

Mismanagement of finances is not an ailment limited to Capitol Hill or Albany. Recently, the New York State Comptroller's Office cited the Enfield Town Board with poor financial management.

In an election year, both parties will demonstrate a certain attraction toward those with money. Politics is no stranger to large sums of money being used to promote some candidate or idea. The Political Pack supporting Mitt Romney's bid for the Republican Presidential Nomination has spent $33 million dollars in negative advertising with mixed results.

With all the campaign nonsense and political bickering over which party wastes more taxpayer dollars, it is both refreshing and a source of pride to witness a Town Board working in a bi-partisan fashion for the overall good of the community.

Residents ought to be proud of the officials they have elected to the board. The Town Center will bring needed revenue to our community which will help ease the tax burden associated with AES Cayuga and its recent financial difficulties.

Moreover, the new town center will serve as a positive force in attracting new residents to Lansing. With a supermarket, library, artists' market, excellent schools, recreation, and more -- Lansing can and will continue to be the gem of Tompkins County. And That is to the point.

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