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"Go West young man...". This famous quote was originally penned by John Sole in 1851 but popularized by Horace Greeley of the New York Tribune. How fitting that the slogan still rings true today. In his article for the Tribune, Greeley was trying to encourage people to migrate Westward where there were many opportunities, plenty of land, and a chance to strengthen a part of the nation that was virtually untapped. Unfortunately, the article didn't mention the hardships, the lawlessness, and the struggles those that went West would face. So it is with Gastonia. One big difference is that despite all of the hardships one may face by moving to the West District or starting a business there, encouragement to do so is lacking and there is no support from the city. What if the same had been true back in the 1800's?
In Gastonia, the West district has the most undeveloped land, the highest crime rate, and the most potential. Why the city leaders do not embrace these opportunities and face these problems and turn them into positives for the city is what we question. There is so much opportunity that can be realized with not much effort or expense when compared to other projects the city has tackled before. For far too long the West District has been abandoned and pretty much handed over to the prostitutes and drug dealers. Slum lords rule the housing market and few businesses want to locate there. This must change. Despite the rough reputation, there are many good citizens that have made their homes in the West District dreaming of a better life and trying hard to make it the place it could be.
Although the individuals that work in the different city departments are for the most part dedicated workers doing the best that they can, the elected officials need to make these items a priority. Without a concentrated effort by our elected officials nothing is going to change. We have to work together. Our goal at Life in Gastonia is to put the problems of the Westy District in front of the public and hold our city leaders accountable. Gastonia is a great place to call home and we need our elected leaders to realize that Gastonia is a city with many different areas and they are all important. The West District does not have to be a dead end. Let's work to gether to make it great! |
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