Dear Editor,
Last week's "letters" column contained several allegations which cannot remain unchallenged. The naysayer's most perpetuated misconception is that Englewood is involved in a disproportionate number of lawsuits. Simply not true. Research obtained from the Clerk of Courts reveals that since 1974, Englewood fled 42 actions but was sued 90 times. Of the 42, 26 were routine appropriation cases which involved acquiring right-of-way for two decades of road improvement projects. Ten others involved zoning enforcement. The six remaining cases dealt with such things as police, property disposal and construction disputes. Nothing extraordinary here. Indeed, the true test is a comparison with other local cities. Of seven researched, Englewood was next to lowest in legal activity.
Secondly, a letter referenced a 1995 survey whereby City residents favored a merger between Englewood and Randolph. That is true. But the writer left off the fact that 66% of Randolph residents oppose the merger. Fifty-five percent also oppose a merger with Clayton.
The same writer referenced the survey to suggest over 60% of Englewood residents favored a recreation center. True, when it didn't cost new taxes. Unfortunately, 57% also said they would likely not support a center if property taxes were increased as little as $100.00 per year to pay for it.
Admittedly, the well orchestrated pro merger rhetoric is flying. I hope this clears a few things up.
Eric A. Smith,
City Manager City of Englewood