About a dozen residents attended the Tuesday night city-wide listening session on ideas the city should consider when working on the upcoming 2024 Strategic Plan.
Issues cited by those in attendance include the poor condition of sidewalks, lack of sidewalks on some major roads and where there is no shoulder to get out of the way of an oncoming vehicle, the need for regulation soccer fields, improvement to the ball fields in Tully Park and the addition of playground equipment in the park. While the group liked Bryan Memorial Park and the nature trail there was a concern about safety, especially in the area of the outdoor basketball court where they felt police patrols were lacking. There was also concern about adequate housing or apartments for companies bringing in new employees. Concern was voiced over zoning that has resulted in some buildings sitting vacant. The lack of regulation-size soccer fields was also a concern.
On the positive side, several in the group shared their feelings that Salem had good schools and was safe and friendly.
A moderator was recording all the answers to be given to the Salem City Staff for consideration in the development of the new strategic plan. No city officials were in attendance to avoid debate situations occurring and to allow residents to talk freely.
