A number of local merchants came forth to air concerns about suggested proposals for downtown redevelopment. There was grave concern about the possible razing of important structures to create a “downtown mall.” Higher rents, parking and impediments to shopping traffic were also mentioned as probable obstacles.

The new city commission was pondering whom to select as the mayor. Barkley Clark would soon resign due to moving out of town. David Longhurst, Ernest Angino and Mike Amyx were new and Nancy Shontz was the lone incumbent. Logically, Shontz would be the choice but there seemed to be sentiment against that move because of some of her controversial stands with the past commission.