People who choose to live in town give up some choices when they move inside the city limits.
Laws and ordinances let us know what the rules are and are designed to protect the quality of life for the thousands of people – young and old, rich and poor, black and white – who live in town.
Fire codes, health regulations, sewer permits, curfews, speed limits, construction codes and animal ordinances don’t target one person – they apply to us all. And the key word in that phrase is “us.”
Those living in the county and out of sight are allowed to live and pretty much do as they please.
But those who choose to live in the city with us must realize they give up a certain amount of choice and independence when they decide to become our neighbors.
That is why your Clarksdale Press Register was somewhat perplexed at the recent “Citywide” meeting aimed at gathering input for new ordinance.
Clarksdale doesn’t need new ordinances. Clarksdale needs to enforce the ordinances currently on the books.
City ordinances prohibit parking cars in yards. It just isn’t enforced.
City ordinances prohibit operating a business in a neighborhood zoned residential. It just isn’t enforced.
City ordinances prohibit unsafe building in downtown – and anywhere else in Clarksdale. But they are not enforced.
The city and state also prohibit panhandling, loud mufflers, tinted windows and speeding. But again these laws are not enforced in Clarksdale.
The city also has a legal process where it can demolish abandoned or burned out houses. It just doesn’t use it.
Your Press Register has repeatedly point to the fire hazard these properties pose. Empty and abandoned buildings are targets for burglary, arson and juvenile mischief.
Our city has tolerated those wanting live like they want to for too long. They grant a “variance” when the grass grows too tall, the roof caves in or the windows are covered with plywood. These property owners – they are not our neighbors – want special treatment when it comes to allowing dangerous and unsightly property in the city limits.
The city’s desire to help residents and find solutions is commendable. But we urge caution with granting “variances” that might be seen as favors to friends and voters.
City ordinances and policy need apply to each of us equally and fairly. They are the rules and regulations we all agree to live by if we are going to make this town our home.
