“We must not change!”

Tradition is the vehicle that drives quality of life in a small town atmosphere. For almost 135 years Ritzville has continued to embody a set of values that lets us all enjoy the lifestyle we live here for.

From pioneer families to newcomers this town is a place where we honor and experience the commitment and sacrifices of those who made Ritzville the unique community it is. Although it’s important to the historical value of Ritzville to preserve those values, holding on too tight is unhealthy.

Recently I’ve been made aware of efforts by a few of our citizens to undermine the survival of our way of life. Vandalism of public assets owned and paid for by you affect our ability to maintain a pleasing atmosphere.

For example, we’ve received several complaints that the downtown restrooms are closed. One, the toilets and sinks must be drained over winter to prevent freezing. Mayor Kadlec made the tough decision to save public money by not installing heaters.

Two, the fear of vandalism is a concern as evidenced by the restrooms at the City Park. Ritzville’s Public Works employees routinely spend your dollars in repair and labor to keep the facility operational for public use. They must remove graffiti inside and out, fix toilets, sinks, mirrors, and steel doors that are continually kicked off their hinges. The City has installed cameras to safeguard that area, and several individuals have been apprehended and ‘invited’ to help scrub and repaint the damage. Whether or not violators are caught, this is a continuing expense to the City.

You cannot fully enjoy the downtown Plaza since lights placed on the trees are constantly vandalized with broken bulbs and cut electrical cords.

It’s simple. We work to make this town attractive and pleasant for all who wish to share our small town experience or lose what we have. Many groups and volunteers work tirelessly to help us survive economically. We are at a decision point. We sink or swim. Holding on to the idea of being as we have always been and not changing is a death grip. I ask everyone who values our lifestyle to think about what matters. We need tourism, healthy businesses and over-all economic well-being.

Please allow your public servants, volunteers, organizations and businesses to help preserve the things that matter to you.