Is anyone else getting tired of the endless arguments at city council meetings over engineering bids? It's gotten to the point of absurdity.. the smallest projects are now subjected to the now familiar arguments bordering on a sort of personal vendetta.
In fact you could easily make the point that much of city policy is being driven by the personal agendas of a few. If you look at the most controversial issues the council has dealt with the the past couple of years, many involve in some way, through no fault of their own, a few select residents and one particular engineering company.
If there is an issue coming up that involves one of those people you can be assured there will be an argument, and the usual knee-jerk reactions. It's tiresome to say the least, and in my view not helpful.
I'm not optimistic that the situation will change, not when both sides couch their positions in lofty ideals, such as "saving taxpayers money" despite choosing the higher bids on at least two projects. Or claiming the cause of fairness while calling for a needless look at engineering bids for projects already underway.
It's bickering like this that wastes everybody's time and makes you wonder if the council in progressive communities like Carroll spend this much time wasting time.
I'm just wondering....
On a lighter note.... Congratulations to the Atlantic Trojans Boys Basketball and Wrestling Teams, as well as the Nishna Valley YMCA Fly Sharks.
The Trojans basketball team beat Harlan two weeks ago for the first time in something like six years and nearly beat them again Wednesday night to advance to the state basketball tournament. The finished with 20-3 record and an unblemished record in representing the best of the community.
The same goes for the Atlantic Wrestling team, four members made it to the state tournament, and the team made it's first ever appearance at the state duel meet last Saturday in Cedar Rapids. I'm confident the program will continuing to grow and improve, thanks to the example set by this team, coach Duff, and a thriving youth wrestling program.
Finally ... For those that haven't heard the Nishna Valley Flying Sharks Swim team will be sending over 30 swimmers to the state meet in Marshalltown this weekend in the culmination of long, hard fought season. In the spirit of full disclosure, I will note that I am a swim parent, but will also add that no team works as hard day in and day out for months on end, often with little recognition. The athletes going to the state meet have worked hard and will no doubt make their team and community proud.
In addition, two swimmers, Laena Frederickson and Dylan Nielsen have been nominated for the state outstanding female and male swimmers. The awards will be presented during the boys and girls meets.
Go Sharks!
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