Letter to the Editor from Theresa Persell

I am writing because I am very disturbed at what is going on in this town of ours. I am a very law abiding person and have always tried my best to raise my children to be respectful of the law and those put in positions of authority. But I wonder if the public knows what the city council is doing to our kids.

I just heard that the city police confiscated the skateboards of five youths while they were sitting on them waiting for permission to skate on that property. I don’t know if you are aware, but these skateboards can cost $50, $150, even $200. I don’t think the city has or should have the right to take away the personal property of our children: especially when they are only sitting on them.

What about the 3-wheelers, 4-wheelers, dirt bikes, etc., that run all over town uninhibited? Is that fair since those are off road vehicles and are not legal on city streets?

I think the city officers should find something better to do than harass our kids, who are simply trying to master something they love. This city is pushing kids into undesirable activities if they don’t allow them to have a little bit of healthy recreation. None of these kids have any intention of suing someone for getting hurt on their property. The only ones that get hurt is them (when they fall over and over).

I don’t think these few kids around town on bikes, scooters, roller blades and skateboards pose too great a threat to the general public of this thriving metropolis of ours!

This city council needs to help in providing good, safe recreation for the youth of this community. I can see them putting some limits on the kids being on the sidewalks on the square during regular business hours when there are pedestrians walking down town. But I don’t believe an all out ban on any sidewalks at any time is the way to handle the situation.

The city prides itself on having a top rated educational system. They need to think about the time when the kids are not at school. They have to have some wholesome extracurricular activity, too. Since the city council refuses to let any kind of new business into the area, there is nowhere for the kids to go for fun.

I believe a community needs to take some initiative in providing good, wholesome activities for the youth and families in that community. By encouraging new businesses that will attract youth and provide them with an outlet for their energy and a place to socialize without causing a major peace disturbance to the public. I think taking away the only thing these kids have to do in this town is a big mistake. It’s asking for trouble!

I wonder if the city is wanting another angry mob on their doorstep again, like has happened in the not too distant past. Since I am not the only one who is upset about the situation and believe it is wrong.

I think the city should keep the officers busy getting the true criminals off the streets, like those selling meth to our kids. Sincerely,

Theresa Persell, Gallatin