NEW CASTLE —
So can the Elks building in downtown New Castle stage a comeback?
Some folks at the Human Services Center seem to think so. And the nonprofit’s attempt to gain control of the building received a bit of a boost this week.
Preliminary indications are that the huge building remains structurally sound, despite years of neglect. We suppose that’s a tribute to the original builders.
If this structural assessment holds up, that means renovation of the building is still possible. It also means worries that it might collapse with the next stiff wind are unfounded.
But one big factor hangs like a lead weight over this concept — money. While the agency has yet to come up with a solid dollar amount, renovating a structure the size of the Elks building — especially considering its overall condition — will be an expensive proposition.
New Castle officials will have to agree to any proposal from the Human Services Center. A key question will be: What happens to the Elks building if the city turns it over and the hoped-for grant money is not forthcoming? Will it remain a boarded up hulk in the downtown indefinitely?
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The future of Cascade Park remains uncertain.
At a forum on the park this week, hosted by Westminster College, we couldn’t help but notice the roster of speakers as heavy with government officials.
To ensure its proper preservation and development, private citizens need to get involved in the effort. We know there is interest in the park, but does that interest translate into action?
We have seen public involvement in the park wax and wane over years. It’s a consequence of several factors, including inconsistent leadership from the city of New Castle, which owns the park.
It’s also a consequence of divided opinions regarding what should be done to improve the park and what the priorities should be.
In this regard, we urge realism. Cascade’s past as an amusement park is gone, supplanted by larger facilities that are better able to draw crowds. That means the future will be shaped by Cascade Park’s natural features that provide a respite from city life.
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The annual Balloon Quest is in full swing, promising lots of weekend fun at the Union Township event.
Weather is always a factor at Balloon Quest, as morning and evening flights are heavily dependent upon clear, calm skies.
But even without the actual sight of hot-air balloons filling the skies, Balloon Quest has much to offer. There are plenty of food, games and entertainment throughout the weekend. And don’t forget the Union Lions Club’s pancake breakfast tomorrow morning at the Union fire hall.
Plus, this being New Castle, fireworks are a must. Check out the 10 p.m. display on Sunday.
Editorials
EDITORIAL: Odds and ends
- Editorials
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Congress acts to close information loophole, but is it enough?
It’s generally recognized that knowledge is power. That’s why some knowledge deserves equal treatment. Perhaps that assessment is most appropriate when it comes to information held by government. Government data and the collection of information, after all, comes courtesy of tax dollars, so everyone should have equal access to its benefits.
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High court forces lawmakers back to drawing board
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s decision to throw out a legislative redistricting plan exposes a fundamental truth: The mapping of House and Senate districts in the commonwealth have nothing to do with representation or serving the people.
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Our Opinion: City hurts businesses by ticketing during lunch hours
Most of the candidates running (and now elected) for New Castle City Council and mayor last year said they believed downtown redevelopment was important. This was a common theme during editorial board meetings at the New Castle News prior to last spring’s primary and before the general election.
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Citizens offer to take open seat on New Castle City Council
It’s good to see there is so much interest in serving on New Castle City Council. On Tuesday, council interviewed nine citizens who have expressed a desire to fill an existing vacancy. The only unfortunate part is that most of these people weren’t interested in the post last year, when it was on the ballot.
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Second thoughts
County commissioner decides to take charge of prison board
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Our Opinion, Part 2: Mayor’s hiring of his son raises more serious questions
If you ask New Castle residents to identify the biggest problem in local government, one word will stand out:
Nepotism. The term, of course, refers to the hiring of one’s relatives for positions, regardless of the fact others are equally — or more — deserving of available positions. -
Our Opinion: Why didn’t council keep Chief Tom Sansone?
Last week, a majority on city council refused to confirm Mayor Anthony Mastrangelo’s appointment of Tom Sansone to continue as police chief. For the moment, the city has no police chief, and city residents are left to wonder why.
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Writers reveal ignorance of school board politics
Editor, The News: In a recent edition of The News there was a letter by James Smith that caught my attention.
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Fairness is consideration in Jameson Hospital’s request to city
Jameson Hospital wants New Castle to give it a break. And it’s something city council should consider — if doing so makes sense, and if it is fair to all.
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Proposal to cut size of Legislature moves modestly ahead
Efforts to streamline Pennsylvania’s Legislature took a step forward this week. But plenty of additional steps remain in what promises to be a daunting process.
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Congress acts to close information loophole, but is it enough?
