Look around town: New this, new that, renovations and enlargements, and one of the most recent expenditures, a performing-arts center in Oxford’s old City Hall.
That said, Oxford isn’t immune from critics who question the council’s use of public money. As with any city, some of that criticism may have merit.
Yet, the council’s decision Tuesday to spend real money — an estimated $1.2 million — to repair and improve Oxford Lake is money well spent.
It’s time Oxford shows some real love to Calhoun County’s most famous lake — man-made or not.
Erosion of the island’s banks has created a gap between the island and its cross-tie wall that’s noticeable from the lake’s walking trail. (Don Hudson, director of the Oxford Parks and Recreation Department, told The Star that there is 10 to 15 feet of erosion on the island.) Time has also damaged the lake’s banks, as well.
The council plans to repair that damage, repave the trail and build two picnic pavillions.
None of that is as sexy as a performing-arts center, a new library, a new city hall, a new police station or new school buildings.
But it is wholly necessary. Oxford Lake is a Calhoun County gem. Keeping it that way should be a priority.
