Editor, Times-Union: The city hall building not only represents Warsaw, but the entire community and county as well. Quite frankly the current city hall is a disgrace to this city. This building was constructed over 50 years ago and lacks adequate work, meeting and storage space. Some restrooms lack hot running water, black mold can be seen growing on the ceilings and the roof frequently leaks. As a taxpayer of Warsaw, I expect my elected officials to make the right decisions based on the best information they are provided. The city council, redevelopment commission, planning commission and school board all supported this project. In 2002 the city formalized a blueprint for revitalizing downtown which included the recommendation for a new city hall. This blueprint, the Hyett-Palma study, was the result of input from citizens and merchants alike. One purpose of the new building will be to consolidate five city departments, whereby allowing citizens easier access to conduct business at one convenient location. It is my understanding this building was purchased along with 25 additional off-street parking spaces below the current value thereby saving some $900,000. Renovation is estimated at $136 per square foot as compared with an average new construction rate of $200 per square foot. The purchase price was funded from savings and, along with its renovations, will not be funded by any new tax or tax increase. I believe it is irresponsible for those who throw out arbitrary figures and misleading information in order to discredit those individuals who have a vision for this city. I am grateful to Joe Thallemer, who paid attention to the study and who had the courage to make a solid commitment to this city. And, in spite of these difficult economic times, while knew his decision might not be the most popular, he knew it would be the right one for our city’s future. Larry Ladd Warsaw, via e-mail
