Sense of community makes living here so unique. We take care of each other, coming to each other's aid, giving time and money to organizations that make our community a better place. Lately, this spirit has been diminished over a few issues. This saddens many of us and could be avoided through communication, collaboration and civility.
Regarding the Ketchum URA, numerous uncertainties exist and lack of clarity leads to misunderstanding. Good points are brought up by both sides, but things quickly moved to a point where no one can hear each other and in some cases, a lack of respect and breakdown of civility has ensued.
We are a small community, so I respectfully suggest that our government institute a communications effort whereby an idea or an issue can be floated in an informal process allowing for input and to truly listen to each other, a key to real communication. Perhaps the city of Ketchum can send out newsletters and conduct surveys. Use Town Square to hold open forums, share common goals and a vision of how we'd like to be. Extraordinarily bright and creative people collaborating can make great strides in achieving our goals. The concept of a public/private partnership is often discussed; it's time to put it into practice.
We can respectfully disagree on matters and treat each other with civility so we can still say hello or raise a glass together. It saddens me that anyone who wants to invest their time, hearts and money would be personally attacked or told that they don't need to be heard. This is truly unacceptable and can be avoided through simple proactive communication. Sure, it takes time and effort—any rewarding relationship does. At the end of the day, we are still a community.
Joy Kasputys
Sun Valley