Mount Pleasant, like many communities in the Fay-West area, faces a yearly struggle to balance the needs of the borough with the resources of the taxpayers. Council works hard to provide the services people need and expect while keeping expenses at a manageable level.
In many cases, the extras must go by the wayside. Decorative lighting, facade improvement and park enhancements sometimes must be trumped by sidewalk repairs, equipment upgrades and the filling of potholes.
That's not to say that the so-called "unnecessary" projects aren't important. Indeed they are, as they serve to enhance a community's image. People want to live and raise families in a community that has clean parks. They want a vibrant downtown that is attractive and unique.
Council President Michael Tabita has come up with an idea for paying for some of those "extras" without imposing undue burden on taxpayers. We feel it's an idea worth exploring. Tabita has suggested asking residents to contribute funds to help pay for projects important to them.
"If people like the music at the Gazebo, then contribute to that," said Tabita. "If they want to see the town clock running again, they can contribute to that. There's also the nativity scene, the Christmas lights program and fireworks around the Fourth of July."
Some people will grumble that it's not the public's responsibility to pay for these and other similar projects and events. We would say that, in fact, it is. Communities are built through the contributions of people, namely those who live, work or do business there. They have a responsibility to make that community healthy and vibrant.
In a sense, this type of "giving" takes place already in Mount Pleasant and most every community in the Fay-West area. Volunteerism is a key component of any town. The most obvious example comes from the many fire departments whose members protect our lives and property without pay and, at times, with not nearly enough recognition. Still, people continue to give of their time and energy because it's for the betterment of their community.
By funding projects they deem important, residents would provide a similar service to the community. Their generosity benefits everyone, and makes their hometown stronger.
Mount Pleasant has long been known for the community pride exhibited by its citizens and businesses. We expect that spirit will be evident when it comes to residents and businesses giving what they can, above and beyond taxes, to make the borough a better place.
