March 4, 1973
Friends —
Several weeks ago I noticed that the alley light behind my building was out. Not realizing that the condition is universal throughout the neighborhood I called Union Electric to report it. They told me that the lights had been turned off. Naturally I believe that the city should pay for such lighting, but since it doesn’t, is there any chance that the lights will be turned on again soon?
Yours truly, Carolyn F. Wyatt 6108 Washington-Apt. #3E
Editor’s Reply
(As an apartment dweller you may not be aware that residents of the Rosedale-Skinker area undertook to have the alley lights installed and have been paying for them through fees charged to each residence. Unfortunately on many blocks too few people were paying their fair share. As a result, the bills could not be paid and service was cut off. The city would not assume the cost of maintaining these lights, preferring to install different light fixtures… a process which seems to be complete. The Rosedale-Skinker Improvement Association, which originally sponsored the program, must somehow pay the $550.00 past due electric bill regardless of the city’s alley light program. It is sad that a neighborhood organization has to take the rap for those who take a selfish or neglectful attitude toward positive community action. — Ed.
Originally published in The Paper, April 1973.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times1973_04.pdf, printed page(s) 2.
