Mike Tuckey Senior’s Weblog

Recently, we historically inaugurated a new President of the United State. Regardless of party affiliation, on can not help but swell with pride in the ability for all of us in the United States to work out our difference; so that, we may insure the promises of our founders for all. Now, it is the responsibility of local people to carry on this important work. Let that work start here.

The Armory Quadrangle neighborhood faces extreme difficulties. We have a very low medium income thus, a very high poverty rate. Those fortunate enough to own property suffer from dropping real estate values. The businesses in our neighborhood suffer from the dual problem of retreating national economy, while trying to do business in the city with the poorest economy in the Commonwealth. We have a disproportionate number of homeless; and, we have created a difficult environment in which business may flourish. But, I am hopeful. This hope is rooted in my belief; that, echoing a quote from President Clinton’s first inaugural address: “There is nothing wrong with Springfield that can’t  be fixed by what is right with Springfield.”

Recently, the Armory Quadrangle Civic Association elected new board members and began a new year. Although, at this time, I am much too busy to actively participate, I would like to offer my hope. My hope for the Armory Quadrangle Civic Association is based in a quote from then President elect Barack Obama, on his train trip from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C. In the Baltimore train station, he said; (paraphrase) When we begin to see ourselves in the faces of our fellow Americans,, we will begin to come together and solve our nation’s problems. With this in mind, I offer these suggestions. I do not make these comments as criticism of what is; but, as suggestions for the future based on my personal observations.

I. Remember, neighborhoods are made up of all who live, work, and do business within its boundaries.

A/ We have a wonderfully diverse populations. AQCA should reach out to those in our neighborhood, who are not, or are underrepresented within the membership. Membership and ideas will only grow by incorporating different life experiences and cultures.

B/ Neighborhoods of old included businesses. The growth of new business and the nurturing of existing business can only serve to enhance the health of this neighborhood. It may come as no surprise to most; almost all commercial property on Chestnut Street is either listed for sale, or willing to entertain offers. AQCA can be a vehicle to assist in creating an environmnet; in which, business not only does not wish to leave, but seeks an opportunity to locate here. Actively solicit the input of ALL business leaders and owners in this community. They too are important members of our neighborhood.

II.Work to be first, a citizen of Springfield

In this city, we area all, first and foremost, citizens of Springfield It is with this mind set, and this mind set only, that we can begin to address our problems in our neighborhoods and the city as a whole.  AQCA can be a catalyst for promoting this mentality.

Work with other neighborhood councils throughout the city to assist in addressing their concerns. In the issues that face our city; economic development, public safty, and education, our goals should all be the same: A better more vibrant Springfield What benefits one, benefits us all.

III. Be Relevant

There are a few members of the City Council, who are also members of AQCA. Solicit their active participation at meetings; so that, citizens may have first hand knowledge of what progress is being made on issues that concern them. Solicit city department heads to discuss topics of specific interest to this neighborhood as well as general concerns of the city; the new zoning code, State Street Revitalization, economic development, etc.

IV. Be Positive

They’re are many projects and plans for the city of Springfield. Many, if not all, of these plans will have components; with which, many have objections. But, look at the big picture. Will it benefit the city as a whole? If I don’t like an aspect of the plan, do I have a reasonable, well thought through alternative? Am I capable of articulating my objection and my plan clearly and succinctly? If not, where should I seek assistance? Too many times neighborhood associations develop a profile for being “against everything and for nothing. ” Avoid this profile at all costs. It wiil inhibit your ability to make progress.

In closing, I think it was Benjamin Franklin who said; “In a democracy, peopole don’t get the government they want. They get the goernment they deserve.” We deserve a better Springfield. Our elderly deserve a better Springfield. Our children and our grandchildren deserve a better Springfield. I believe, together, we can make that better Sprinfield a reality.