Lawrence Journal-World opinion section

To the editor:

I have read with interest the commissioners conversation on the state of sidewalks in Lawrence. I can tell you that many of the sidewalks in the Old West Lawrence neighborhood are not good. A walk down Seventh or Eighth street from Michigan Street to Tennessee Street is quite an adventure. I agree with Tom Markus that our city ordinance requiring homeowners to maintain sidewalks in good repair should be enforced.

I also understand the concerns of the commissioners on affordability for some homeowners. Here’s a suggestion: If a sidewalk needs to be repaired or replaced, the homeowner is notified and given 90 days to comply. After 90 days, the city contracts to have the repairs/replacement done and the homeowner can either pay the bill in full or have an assessment added to their property tax bill over a period of 10 years. Homeowners who choose to pay over time will also pay a modest interest rate.

The city a needs to come up with a solution; many sidewalks are unsafe and, if an injury occurs, we may all be on the hook, not just the homeowner, particularly if the city is unwilling to enforce the law. (One wonders what other laws/ordinances aren’t being enforced based on ability to pay).