City Hall Art Exhibit
Dear Editor: Surely the Assembly has far greater responsibilities than appointing an “Art Tsar” for City Hall. Simply build a permanent display explaining the tragic loss of three Sitkans with relevant art, photos, news clippings, personal stories, etc. Further, the Assembly can approve a free pass at Centennial Hall each year for an art exhibit honoring those lost.
City Hall is a business office and as such, there is a steady flow of citizens in and out of the building. Often with children in tow. In fact, customer service even has a small play area to keep kids entertained while parents conduct business. City Hall is not an adults-only club! And forget about bring-your-kids-to-work day – not with this policy in place.
Christopher Brewton, Sitka
Negotiations with SEARHC
Dear Editor: I am hopeful the Assembly will require proof from SEARHC that a new medical campus will be constructed on Japonski Island. By proof I mean SEARHC has specifically identified the necessary funding and the SEARHC Board has passed a resolution committing the organization to the project.
From my perspective a new medical campus is the centerpiece of the merger for several reasons:
–Such a large project will provide a nice boost for the Sitka economy.
–If SEARHC and CBS join forces and approach our Delegation in Washington, there is a good chance we can win federal funding to upgrade the CBS utilities on the island, especially electric.
A larger electric capacity on Japonski opens up expansion opportunities for Coast Guard and for our airport while bringing new revenue into the electric fund.
But none of this will occur if the new medical campus is not constructed. Without a guarantee from SEARHC that the campus will be completed the merger idea loses much of its luster.
Hugh Bevan, Sitka
