| The West side |  |
"Go West young man...". This famous quote was originally penned by John Sole in 1851 but popularized by Horace Greeley of the New York Tribune. How fitting that the slogan still rings true today. In his article for the Tribune, Greeley was trying to encourage people to migrate Westward where there were many opportunities, plenty of land, and a chance to strengthen a part of the nation that was virtually untapped. Unfortunately, the article didn't mention the hardships, the lawlessness, and the struggles those that went West would face. So it is with Gastonia. One big difference is that despite all of the hardships one may face by moving to the West District or starting a business there, encouragement to do so is lacking and there is no support form the city. What if the same had been true back in the 1800's?
In Gastonia, the West district has the most undeveloped land, the highest crime rate, and the most undeveloped potential. Why the city leaders do not embrace these opportunities and turn them into positives for the city is what we question. There is so much opportunity that can be realized with not much effort or expense when compared to other projects the city has tackled before. For far too long the West District has been abandoned and pretty much handed over to the prostitutes and drug dealers. Slum lords rule the housing market and few businesses want to locate there. This must change. Despite the rough reputation, there are many good citizens that have made their homes in the West District dreaming of a better life and trying hard to make it the place it could be.
Please use the sub menu on the left to view the different areas that we feel the city has failed in. Although the individuals that work in the different city departments are for the most part dedicated workers doing the best that they can, the elected officials need to make these items a priority. Without a concentrated effort by our elected officials nothing is going to change. We have to work together. To that end, City Councilwoman Brenda Craig, has formed the West side Advisory Committee to try and identify the biggest problems and work with the City Council to create solutions. The committee has our full support and we hope to be able to publish some positive results in the near future.
Please check back often and make sure you let your elected official know that you value the potential of the West District and you want to see change!
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