<font color="#0033CC">OUR VIEW:</font> The Democrat's Top 5

As part of our renewed commitment to public service, we've singled out five issues we believe especially deserving of our attention - and yours and ours both. These aren't the only topics we plan to tackle this year, but they're surely among the most significant.

Each of these issues will be addressed throughout 2010 both in our news columns and in Our View. Meanwhile, we value your view as well. Let us know what you think about these and other topics, through a submission to Rant and Rave, a Letter to the Editor, or in our online Facebook forum.



1. Legalized liquor

We've already made clear our feelings on this one. Legalizing the sale of liquor in Suwannee County won't solve all our problems, but would remove at least one impediment to intelligent, long-term growth.

It was believed this measure might appear on the ballot in 2010. However, time is running out. Florida law requires the wet/dry question appear on the ballot alone, which means a referendum would likely have to be held in the spring. In other words, if it doesn't happen soon, it may not happen at all this year.



2. Consolidation of city and county fire services

This one's been tackled many times before, and each failed attempt seems to stir more emotion than the last. Nonetheless, it's too important to let lie - especially during the worst recession in decades.

A full-blown merger of Suwannee County Fire/Rescue and the Live Oak Fire Department would reduce administrative costs and likely save us all a considerable sum.

All options should be on the table, however, including more modest proposals. Resurrecting the 2003 plan that stationed SCFR paramedics at LOFD might be a place to start. That way the city would be on equal footing with the county as far as emergency medical coverage is concerned.

In talks with the Democrat, SCFR Chief Charlie Conner and LOFD Chief Chad Croft each agreed that some kind of joint venture might well benefit both departments - as well as the citizens they serve. We have great respect for both these agencies, and can't help but think there's a win-win situation hidden away here somewhere.



3. Downtown revitalization

Another topic that's been addressed repeatedly, with limited success. This time

the folks behind it are determined to get results. We fully support the efforts of the Downtown Partnership to develop realistic, long-term strategies for enhancing and preserving the charm of historic Live Oak.



4. Perimeter Road project

Otherwise known as the Bypass Road. We don't like that name because it suggests Live Oak is something to avoid.

The Perimeter Road will link US 129 near Lowe's to US 90 East near CR 49, opening a major new corridor for growth.

The county commission and city council are to be commended for having doggedly pursued the plan to this point. Stick with it, gentlemen.



5. Better fire protection for Dowling Park

This one might have been lumped in with No. 2, but it's too important not to be addressed on its own. Dowling Park's independent volunteer unit (which may soon come under control of the county) is quite well run. Still, it's not enough. In a medical emergency, it can take first responders 20 minutes to reach a patient, notes county Fire Chief Charlie Conner. Considering the special needs of many Dowling Park residents, particularly those at the Advent Christian Village, that's way too long. The Dowling Park VFD needs a paid station to supplement the good work of the volunteers. Money's tight, but we see this one as critical.

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