LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
City needs to keep up with upkeep
9/2/2013D. Michael Collins, a city councilman and Toledo mayoral candidate, said that residents need to take care of how their neighborhoods look (“Collins details his plans for neighborhoods, economic growth,” Aug. 26). What about the city’s lack of keeping promises about what it is supposed to be doing?
Our street was scheduled for resurfacing this summer. City crews took all of our trees and left us with a mound of dirt and wood chips. People tell me how terrible the street looks.
We have no shade, but we have potholes galore, thanks to the city powers that be. We will remember come Election Day.
ROSALIE BRAVO
Commonwealth Avenue
Collins helped me personally
Mr. Collins has adopted the slogan “Collins Cares.” As one of his District 2 constituents, I can vouch for the accuracy of that slogan.
Mr. Collins has demonstrated his caring for the city at large, neighborhoods, and the residents he represents.
I suffered an injury in a dog attack. Mr. Collins walked me through the process of bringing charges and was present — on his own time — at five court appearances that were postponed. The dog owners pleaded no contest.
The left and the right of our society may find fault with Mr. Collins’ decisions, but the huge swath in the middle will be more than pleased with his results.
JIM FLYNN
Townley Road
Lopez impressive as auditor
I have had many dealings with Lucas County Auditor Anita Lopez’s office over the past two years. My property assessments were lowered because of the lowered values of my house and several rental properties. I also consulted the office about matters related to the recent death of my mother.
When I call, the person who answers usually has the information that I need. On one occasion, Ms. Lopez answered my questions. When I have gone to the office, I am immediately sent to a person who answers my questions — no waiting. The people there seem happy to help.
I plan to vote for Ms. Lopez for mayor of Toledo. And when she is elected, I’m sure the city will run better financially.
DAVID DENMAN
Elmhurst Road
Strong-mayor model must go
I am a lifelong resident of Toledo. The city once was vibrant, with no budget woes. Then came a strong-mayor system of city government, and everything has gone downhill ever since.
“Strong” describes the odor of arrogance that each strong mayor has given us. The city manager form of government had more checks and balances and epitomized everybody’s favorite word: transparency.
TOM MATHIAS
Oak Glen Drive