Letters, letters, letters

Last updated Jul 15, 1997 12:0pm0

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To the Editor:

On our recent visit to Sisters we stayed at the Sisters Motor Lodge, where we have stayed on our visits over the last 30 years.

We were shocked and saddened to learn that Les Schwab will build on the site next door to the west toward the llama ranch.

We consider that one of the most scenic sites in Oregon.

How can this happen? Who is making a judgment that there should be a commercial strip on that prime land as people head west toward the Sisters and McKenzie Pass?

It is difficult to believe that the city fathers and mothers will not see that this is a bad way to develop. I hope there is still a way to reverse their decision.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Deutsch, Eugene

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To the Editor:

This in reply to Ali Geraths' letter (The Nugget, July 9).

Since the Tollgate Property Association's Board has managed its revenues well and sees an immediate need to prevent further deterioration of its roads, it is vitally important that the issues raised be addressed.

Yes, the first Special Assessment attempt failed with 66.1 percent approval versus the needed 66.7 percent. The association's board felt that we should respect the majority's expression of support along with providing updated information in a second mailing responding to specific concerns raised by owners as they submitted their first ballots.

As of January 22, the average homeowner's association's annual dues were $608.87 for 19 associations in this general area, including Tollgate's $256. Unlike Tollgate, a majority of these associations do not provide swimming pool, club house, and tennis as bonuses beyond road upkeep and snow removal.

Tollgate's "new" road grader was manufactured in 1961. It is cumbersome to operate on our three dozen cul-desacs, and it tends to damage our streets. The Ford truck plus snowplow operates twice as quickly and requires much less maintenance.

The old equipment used to patch cracks became unusable due to the bottom being burned out, and our present maintenance person says it was unsafe to operate. At a regular TPOA public meeting on June 26, it was decided that contracting out the crack sealing at less than $6,000 for a two-or three-year patch job was better than expending $5,329 yearly using our equipment and our employee.

Our lack of large reserves dates back to the past. Earlier boards, especially in the '70s and early '80s, failed to advance dues to keep pace with the cost of living. Tollgate has been unable to accumulate sufficient reserves for this $225,000 project.

Maybe instead of a smoke screen of inaccuracies, we should recognize that the work needs to be done, understand that further delays will only make the problem worse and more expensive to complete, and find the $13 per month per lot to accomplish the job.

Earnestly,

Blaine Kalar, TPOA Chairman

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To the Editor:

I have just come from the 22nd Annual Sisters Quilt Show and am amazed at this fine production.

Jean Wells and her capable crew of volunteers and staff have once again transformed Sisters into a beautiful gallery of fabric and colors. As well as producing an excellent show, they do many small things to ensure the comfort of our visitors, such as providing extra restroom facilities, emergency drinking water, tented areas for sun relief, and helpful, friendly guides.

Every year, Jean Wells asks for the city's input regarding how to minimize any negative impact this wonderful festival may have on our community. And every year, she implements those suggestions, thus ensuring a constantly improving operation.

And my compliments to the City of Sisters which has gone out of its way to assist our visitors. Eliminating parking on Cascade to ensure the safety of pedestrians who, due to sheer numbers, are forced to walk on the roadway; and working with ODOT on the bypass to ease traffic congestion are just two of the city's contributions to this effort.

The merchants and residents of this town also earn high praise for their friendly and helpful demeanor. I heard many statements regarding how cordial everyone is.

And, lastly, my compliments to all of the visitors who attended this quilt show. You are an extraordinarily fine group of people. We are pleased that you came; hope that you will stay awhile; and ask that you come back to see us again. Have a safe trip home.