Paben has a new post on this. The price has risen (no surprise there) to just slightly over 3/4 of a million. Supposedly the work will be completed sometime in November.

Here's what we are buying for $777,000 (which will be inflated with cost-overruns).



This is the sort of thing that really gets under my skin, folks. We have a great discussion going on in another thread where a well-intentioned citizen dropped off a $50 check at the city desk, and encouraged all of us to do that same, because the Mayor says we are facing a two million dollar shortfall next year. Others of us (like me) are saying "NO! The city needs to prioritize spending!" Those in charge of such spending look back at us with incredulity and ask, "Where? Where do we 'cut the fat?'"

Here is a prime example, my friends! Right here!!

Is there anything wrong with putting a little plaza at the corner of Bay and Holly? No. There is not. It's a neat thing, and I'm certain it will be attractive, be loved by those who frequent the area, and receive plenty of use.

Is there anything wrong with putting a little plaza at the corner of Bay and Holly when the Mayor of Bellingham says we are facing a two million dollar shortfall? Are you kidding me? Of course there is!

Folks, one of the rules related to my wallet is, if I don't have the money to spend, I don't spend it. I don't even own a credit card, and I don't want to hear the speeches about needing to have at least one for... I have not carried a credit card for almost 20 years. If you don't have the money to spend, you don't spend the money. A plaza at the corner of Bay and Holly to the tune of 3/4 of a million dollars when the Mayor is telling the citizens "We're out of money" is reckless, foolish and irresponsible.

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