Kudos to the mayor and council for voting to approve the purchase of additional cameras to aid our police department in their various criminal investigations. The reported usage of these cameras will be to identify suspects and/or vehicles fleeing from crime scenes. These cameras are clearly needed because most witnesses mysteriously come down with amnesia and state that “they didn’t see anything” even though they did. I assume they don’t want to be labeled as snitches and/or they are afraid the thugs may come after them if they say anything identifying the offenders. This must be very frustrating for our police investigators tasked with getting justice for the victims. These cameras should be equipped with license plate recognition software. Another need that could/should be addressed by these cameras are numerous dangerous drivers (Dodge Challengers, Mustang GT’s, Dodge Chargers, Chevy Camaros equipped with way too loud mufflers) who drive at insane speeds in residential areas. They seem to get a thrill out of revving their motors, disturbing the peace by doing so. I have talked with the former mayor and our current police chief and nothing has been done as far as I can tell. One of these speed demons lost control of his hot rod recently and ended up in the living room of a house behind Columbus High School. This was reported in this newspaper. My hope is that these new cameras can take pictures of these lawbreaking speed demons tags and our police department can give them hefty tickets. Enough is enough. This issue needs to be addressed by our City before one of these reckless drivers runs over and kills an innocent citizen. I have seen something, I am saying something, now please do something!
Another issue our city leaders need to address is paving of streets which are full of potholes. Flowers and new sidewalks may seem to make our city look good to visitors, but they don’t do anything for its own citizens who have to constantly dodge potholes to avoid damaging their personal vehicles. Our city really needed those roundabouts… what a waste, just like the amphitheater. I have noticed 18 wheelers driving and parking in residential areas also. Their massive weights can’t be good for our poor beaten up streets. Is there a city ordinance concerning their use of city streets?
Sorry for my venting, but y’all need to listen to your citizens. Sometimes they actually have good ideas/suggestions that would be beneficial to all of our citizens.
Stan Wheeler
Columbus
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Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 39 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
