Published: June 30, 2008 06:28 pm            

Why move Social Security office?

I absolutely do not understand why the city is considering moving the Social Security office. Is there a problem with the office on Cumberland Road?

Does the city have the only say in moving the office?

Isn't the Social Security office a Federal agency? What about the people who visit the office. Don't they have a say? This office serves a large area, and the majority of people who visit come from outside of the city, and a great many even come from another state.

Who will foot the bill for moving the Social Security office? The feds? The state? The city? How about none of them, because ultimately the bill for moving the office will go to the taxpayers!

How many thousands of dollars were spent renovating and remodeling the present location just a relatively short time ago? Hundreds of thousands? More?

While I admire the city in wanting to revitalize the downtown area, it doesn't make sense to move the office if there is nothing wrong with the one they've got. It doesn't make sense to needlessly waste taxpayer money.

I say that if the city wants to move the Social Security office, then they should pay all costs associated with the move. No federal or state money should be used. They should also pay restitution to the agencies (and taxpayers) who paid for the existing office.

I doubt that a majority of city residents want the office moved. Why not submit this to a referendum and let the citizens decide?

This whole thing is ridiculous! With their way of thinking, it's no wonder the city government can't entice more private businesses into the downtown area.

Dave Cox

Bluefield, VA

        

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