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But for customers and staff at the Corner Depot on Wednesday afternoon, that is exactly what happened, when Gov. Mitch Daniels stopped by on his way to Rome City and Warsaw for a “celebration of the outdoors.”
In Rome City, locals have purchased an island which will become a protected reserve. Daniels was on his way to visit that and also to stop by trails in the Warsaw area.
“We are developing a statewide trail system.” explained Governor Daniels. “When it is complete, every Hoosier will be within 15 minutes of a trail.”
Gov. Daniels is very eager for the proposed system to proceed, noting the role the outdoors can play in making people healthy, and also the role that a community with a good general quality of life can play in attracting new business to a particular area.
“Whether it is the arts, or parks, or trails,” he said, “they all have a big part to play in the quality of life for the people who work for the company.”
He also noted that the Rivergreenway here in Bluffton is a vital part of the proposed trail system, and praised Mayor Ted Ellis’s advocacy of the trail system.
Daniels was enthusiastic about the business growth experienced in Wells County, and other areas of the state. He remains concerned however, that some regions are still struggling to grow, and hopes to be able to address the problems they are experiencing.
He also noted that while the new property tax system has seen some initial concerns, there has been an average state wide reduction in property tax bills in the region of 39 per cent, providing a better deal for the taxpayer.
“This is much better than we expected.” Daniels said. “But it’s very important that we complete (the process) by putting on the caps. The cap will be 1.5 per cent in 2009 and one per cent in 2010.”
He noted that the system is flexible, offering communities that require more funds the opportunity to hold a referendum to gain the support of its residents for a higher tax cap.
Daniels praised the efforts of local government officials in Wells County who have done a good job in terms of controlling spending. He noted that counties that had not been as careful are now facing significant difficulties ahead.
Daniels received a warm welcome from those he met during his visit. He discussed a number of topics, including gas prices, state parks and business growth, and the Cubs and the Colts.
by FRANK SHANLY
frank@news-banner.com
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