Decorative lamps not right thing to do

The new signs welcoming neighbors to Arlington Heights are very attractive. I wondered at the cost, particularly during a time of economic slow down and tight budgets, however I decided they had probably been ordered prior to the current budget.

Yet, today in the Daily Herald I read that the Village of Arlington Heights has approved over $135,000 for 13 decorative lamp posts. Let me read that again, over $135,000 for 13 decorative lamp posts. That cannot be right. $10,000 per decorative lamp post at a time when our towns and villages are struggling with shrinking revenues? When our towns and villages are cutting services and laying off employees?

What thought process could ever arrive at the conclusion that 10 decorative lamp posts at a cost of $10,000 each is a wise use of village resources? If this expenditure is meant to enhance the downtown area of the village, the money would be so much better spent directly supporting the businesses struggling to survive during these times.

If this expenditure is meant to enhance the attractiveness of the village and encourage growth, the money would be so much better spent enhancing the lives of those who live here, who are struggling with tax payments and even home maintenance.

Yes, I have it heard it before, the money for the 13 decorative lamp posts at a cost of $10,000 each for a total cost of $135,000 comes from a different line item in the budget. A line item from TIF monies that appears to be in robust health. If that is the case, then the problem lies with the management of the line items. The Village of Arlington Heights must assess the needs of the village and then provide the resources needed, using all of the line items for the best interests of the residents ... and I cannot fathom how 13 decorative lamp posts at a cost of over $135,000 is in the best interest of the residents of our village.

Mari Cohen

Arlington Heights