Why Must Our Town Get Bigger?
Author: Bill Garwood
Why Must Our Town Get Bigger?
Have you tried to walk across Broadway lately? We have “TRAFFIC”, and it’s not good! If I wanted to live in a city, I would have moved to one. Everyone always says, “Progress is good”. Fine, in some things. I like the thought of electric lights and being able to have a cold beverage now and then. These are modern ideas I’m fine with; even the new-fangled motor cars aren’t too bad. Except when they are everywhere!
I love that Townsend has several unique stores and many types of businesses. This is a great thing. What I wonder about is when we have a great “helpful” store that benefits most everybody, why in God’s name does it get sold out from under the local folks who own and run it? Strangely enough, the land it is on is going to be bought, and the building probably destroyed. All in the name of “Progress?” The word "speculators" sounds familiar! Tearing down a building or clearing a town lot for someone who might want to build something on it someday…maybe! But of course, that old building couldn’t be of any use to the people in Townsend, could it?
How about the other small shops that are always being treated like “musical chairs” and being shoved out of the way for people who speculate on maybe somebody, someday wanting to build something bigger! Or more modern, more “stylish?” Oh yes, we need more bars and gambling houses, or large community centers/coffee shops.
About 6 years ago, there were several small shops that made Townsend, MT a tourist destination. On weekends, folks from all over would come to our small town to shop. They would be walking around in “gaggles”. Good fun was had by all.
Now we have restaurants that aren’t open during mid-week business hours. Too much “drama” with workers and employers! Lack of workers who actually want to work! What a concept.
Even when I wasn’t running my bookstore, I loved walking around town. Talking with locals, buying the naughty chocolate goodies that I’m not supposed to eat anymore. I understand stores being closed on Monday. I used to do that. Got to have at least one day to go to town.
Even the “clothing” stores are changing shops like they have to move anytime the music stops. Let’s get back to being a weekend destination for folks who like the idea of a small Montana town with personality.
How many storefronts are closed up on Broadway for one reason or another? Or for sale on speculation.
Please think before you buy up or close down businesses here! We, who have been here for years, like this small, wonderful town.
