I have always pondered a few things concerning the barge business.

How much is their trade license?

How much money do they contribute to the road improvement projects since their dump trucks and other heavy machinery cause a lot of wear and tear and damage to the roads?

How much money does the town collect for port/docking fees when they were tied to the municipal pier and at the end of a public street?

Yes, we NEED their services. We pay high transportation bills to these service providers. Yes we will need their services for many years to come. But are they giveng back to us?

There would be absolute mayhem if the barge operators decided to strike. But does that mean that you and I need to continually dip into our pockets to repair the damage caused by these businesses?

Did these companies contribute to the building of the south side back marina? Can they now contribute to bringing the port up to their standards?

There comes a time in a politician's life when his/her decisions will make or break a reputation. Well, it looks like the time has come.

However, if a stance is made to demand that the barge companies use the back port - we must all be prepared to face the consequences if the operators dig their heels in.

I am already nervous sharing roads with the dump trucks. When we have a 2 mile straightaway paved road - watch out!!

Anyway, as I said before and will reiterate now - we need the barges. What are we going to propose to fix the new problem before it develops?

This is a town concern, not just a Hol Chan south island neighbourhood concern.