Wednesday, January 30, 2002
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Wednesday, January 30, 2002 |
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Viability of town center tops Tyrone concerns By JOHN
THOMPSON
As Tyrone continues to grow, the town leaders want to make sure the historical heart of the town keeps beating. During this weekend's retreat at the Peachtree City Hampton Inn, the Town Council looked at issues the town will face over the next year. With a new Publix grocery store set for Ga. Highway 74, the council wants to make sure that downtown Tyrone still remains a viable place to live, work and shop. "I want to revive our downtown area and make sure the Founders' Day parade continues to go down Senoia Road," said Councilman Paul Letourneau. The town has lost a few businesses in the last few months, including Jack's Market, and the town is looking at ideas to keep the downtown area viable. Tyrone's growth has created space needs for the city's library, administrative operations and Police Department, said Town Manager Barry Amos, and keeping those services in the older part of town would represent a "nucleus" for keeping a viable town center. Amos also pointed out that some small towns have adopted themes, such as Helen's Bavarian village, that draw tourists. Closer to home, Amos said Sharpsburg's merchants are working together and Tyrone's leaders may want to look at creating a theme for the town. Another item the town may want to consider, Amos said, is changing the name of Senoia Road to Main Street to give the area more of a feel of a small town. The council also discussed a proposal by Mayor Sheryl Lee to run background checks on coaches who work with children in the town's various athletic associations. Lee attended a recreation conference and said 95 percent of the attendees are participating in such a program. The mayor emphasized any discussion would have to occur with all members of the associations before anything is decided. Councilman Ronnie Cannon was not too sure the town should adopt the background check. "Sometimes accusations ruin a person's reputation forever," he said. Town officials agreed to discuss the idea further with members of the athletic associations before bringing it to a council vote.
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