Two out of three voters cast

their ballot for Mayor Brown. In my book, that represents a mandate! However,

I chalk some of his actions up to his inexperience and an unwilling and

gutless City Council.

Case in point, the Tree Police.

I recently removed 33 loblolly pines that were a threat to my home and

family due to ice storms. The city fathers are now considering an ordinance

that would have required me (at considerable additional expense) to replace

these non-specimen trees.

My wife and I pay taxes on

our property and don't believe the city government should tell us how

to enjoy our property. I am a tree lover, not to be confused with tree

hugger. I understand that beautiful trees enhance my property value and

like to think of myself as a conservationist rather than an environmentalist

(there is a difference), political correctness notwithstanding.

While I am at it, where is

the outrage over the sewer fee increase? Our previous administration overpaid

for a pig in a poke that had already been paid for in the lot development

costs. A sweetheart development authority bond and willing County Commission

gave the revered developer free reign to feather their nest at the exclusion

of other landowners.

How about the newly proposed

subdivision that will add to our traffic and overcrowded schools? Never

mind that it will compromise the safety of our airport and rezone industrial

land to single family residential.

Expand the Gathering place?

Where is the cost benefit? Folks don't want to stay home and watch TV?

They want to take cooking lessons? Get real.

Come on people, pay attention.

I am a senior citizen and don't need the government to look after my leisure

time. Peachtree City is blessed with an affluent senior population that

is, in my opinion, not looking for other taxpayers to pay for their social

activities. The current Gathering Place is a fine facility that serves

its purpose and should not be expanded for the sake of expansion.

Hopefully, the mayor and council

will wake up and address some real issues that require courage, mutual

respect and cooperation.

Yes, I was a failed candidate

for mayor who still cares about our community.

Dan Lakly

Peachtree City