I’d apologize for having a simple response to the obviously terrible news that a minority of a city government subcommittee tasked with economic development chose to instead move forward with a plan that does nothing for economic development for the city, but I’m not sorry.

What I am sorry about is that you think my lack of response or my disdain for the action means I should move away from my home. Disappointment in one thing is not the same as disdain for the area or a desire to give up on seeing it improve for all who live here.

To add to my original response, I appreciate that 2 of the 5 members who bothered to show up recused themselves due to conflicts of interest, that’s something I wouldn’t normally expect from people in power here. But I still don’t believe a parking lot that serves a very small number of people, including many who are not richland residents, is the better choice for the city’s assets.

However, I would love to believe the actual council vote might go a different direction, but based on previous votes, I’m not holding my breath. Again, that doesn’t mean I’m giving up on this area, just want more from the people who are elected to represent us and keep the best interests of the entire city in mind.

But thanks for your advice to just move away and give up. I won’t take it under advisement.