Editorial: Doing their part?

Sk8ers of Statesville member Toney Campbell told the R&L, "We ain’t going anywhere."

That’s probably a good thing, because as history has proven, nothing happens overnight — not a Birkdale-like shopping center in Iredell County, not a recreation facility in Statesville, not a skatepark for a niche population of the community.

And though we’re not surprised Statesville City Council passed on the chance to help provide a safe haven for some of the area’s youth, we are disappointed.

Councilwoman Paula Steele said the city’s budget can’t afford a $1 million facility.

Sk8ers weren’t necessarily asking for $1 million. They even said the $300,000 they asked for as start-up funds was generous. What they really need is the city’s initial support to get the wheels turning.

As Mayor Costi Kutteh said, "Someone has to get the ball rolling."

The Sk8ers have been rolling.

City council slammed on the brakes.

After Monday night’s vote against funding the park, the 50 or so advocates left the meeting visibly upset.

And why shouldn’t they be? The forthcoming recreation center on which the city spent millions will provide fun for many, but old habits die hard. For decades, young and old Statesville residents have traveled elsewhere for shopping and entertainment.

Now, the city is on the cusp of driving more up-and-comers — organized, focused up-and-comers, that is — to neighboring communities for recreation.

The Sk8ers are well on their way to making Statesville more youth-friendly.

We can’t wait for city council to catch up.