[Winona Online Democracy] Why not include City Council as well? Granted, almost half the Port Authority membership is composed with city officials. Your issues would gain more visibility with the media this way as well. The Port Authority�s dealings aren�t understood as well as the Council�s register more on this issue would be more visible on the radar scopes of those in government and in the media.
I'm not convinced that a "living wage" is the path to pursue. How would you instill language into an ordinance that would not discriminate by business size or business segment? What about current retail establishments, including downtown merchants; would they be mandated to pay a "living wage" also? To me, this is a "Catch-22 proposition", the ensuing results could backfire. I think new ideas ought to encourage business in the city, not encumber it, especially in these difficult economic times. Educate the local business people how to promote their wares under Wal-Mart's existence. Increase your store hours so you are open until later evening hours and weekends; offer your better customer service versus the indifference of the big-boxes. Let this be a wake-up call and not some trumpeter calling for a retreat. Only the strong survive in the business world. Retail migration has been evolving towards the city limits for decades and is not limited to just Winona. I think this would have happened sooner if Winona were not so poor in available land. Useable acreage near the city is prime real estate; especially land near major highways. Like it or not, our way of life is in constant flux and I�m quite sure it will continue to be that way. Wally Samuelson __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! SiteBuilder - Free, easy-to-use web site design software http://sitebuilder.yahoo.com _______________________________________________ This message was posted to Winona Online Democracy All messages must be signed by the senders actual name. No commercial solicitations are allowed on this list. To manage your subscription or view the message archives, please visit http://mapnp.mnforum.org/mailman/listinfo/winona Any problems or suggestions can be directed to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] If you want help on how to contact elected officials, go to the Contact page at http://www.winonaonlinedemocracy.org
