Your source for community  topics and thoughts

Sounding off on turn lanes
“Regarding the issue of a turn lane to access Quizno shopping center, several things have to occur before this could or would take place.
1) ALDOT would have to get involved. This might be a difficult thing to do, as in getting anything accomplished with this state agency is comparable to skinning a live, non-sedated alligator.
2) ALDOT would have to do a traffic count, then, a traffic study, and then they enter into a period of decision making regarding such a request. Once again, refer to skinning an alligator.
3) The city of Hartselle has no authority to do anything except plead the necessity, because Hwy 31 is a federal highway.
Years ago, Abercrombie Chevrolet pleaded and begged for a traffic light to be placed at the intersection of Highway 31 and Lane Road. Entering and exiting from their dealership was extremely dangerous, and if my memory serves me correctly, one of their employees, or possibly a customer, was involved in a fatal auto accident in front of their dealership. Their basis for the need for a light was that a light would slow traffic in front of their business, which would allow employees and customers a much safer environment. Their request was denied by ALDOT.”

Thanks for helping soldiers
“I would like to commend organizations like this who send packages to our Marines, soldiers, sailors and airmen who are serving overseas. As a disabled veteran of over 17 years, it make me feel good to see acts of kindness like this. Anyone who has served overseas at this time of year would appreciate these acts as much as I do. A hearty thank you.”

Sounding off on flood recovery
“Since the flood last year, has anyone seen any capital improvements to help with the rain runoff problems in downtown Hartselle. I remember a little improvement for downtown’s looks but that is it. I have seen where business owners have made a few improvements, but nothing by the city. Where is our tax money and grant money going? I have no idea, do you?”

And on alcohol sales…
“Just got word today that a form of PAC to PAC money was used to keep Hartselle dry.
Allegedly, it came in the form of a Decatur business man who makes a lucrative living off the sale of alcohol, giving money to three individuals in Hartselle, who in turn, gave the money to Families for a Safe Hartselle. Who would have thought that someone not living in Hartselle,would be so concerned about Hartselle staying dry that they would do something like this?
Who would have thought that these three alleged individuals would accept money from someone that makes a living off alcohol sales, in order to keep Hartselle dry?”

The Hartselle Enquirer’s e-sound off is an  opportunity for residents to provide anonymous comments about community issues. All comments are subject to editing. The Editor reserves the right to refuse publication. In the event of several submissions on a single topic, a representative comment may be used. Comments can include your thoughts on local issues, questions about policies or procedures or praise for a community group, business or person. Email your comments to news@hartselleenquirer.com with “Sound-off” in subject line.