Through a recent discussion with an Auburn city official, I am under the impression that the notifications for an upcoming project in Auburn were sent only to the affected property owners/taxpayers.

The project consists of permanently closing Chestnut Street, demolishing the present PAL Center, and replacing it with a commercial-looking 14,000-square-foot building that includes an indoor basketball court and shower facilities and will cost at least $9 million.

Due to my own apathy, I wasn’t aware of the street closure until I received the first notification. I attended two planning meetings and noticed a lack of residents; I wonder if it was apathy or folks just not knowing about it.

If residents are paying rent, then they are paying property taxes by default. As a renter and taxpayer, they have a vested right to have a voice about what happens in their neighborhood. Good education, police coverage, maintained streets and city property, etc., are all paid for by property taxes and the only difference between myself and the renter is I pay my taxes yearly, whereas the renter pays by the month.

I’m sure Auburn met the state laws for notifications, but does that mean Auburn can’t do better?

I’d like to propose to the council that it explore this and perhaps enact an ordinance that would ensure renters and owners are notified alike.

I encourage those who agree to reach out to their councilor.

After all, it is our neighborhood, isn’t it?

Joe Mailey, Auburn

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