We should be aware that there are things going on around us that, through the lack (until now) of a central reporting medium, may not be common knowledge throughout the county. Today, a few items are offered here, which should be the start of a series on this issue. No doubt there are others of varying levels of interest in our area by the individuals who are directly involved in these matters. They can be viewed as strengths, weaknesses, opportunities or threats depending on your viewpoint. Please consider the following:
Starting with the most recent first: As reported in the Scranton Times January 28th edition, the low level nuclear dump in South Carolina is closing. This brings us around full circle to the not too distant past where the residents were scrambling for ways to keep the site out of Our Fair County. The plan which was used, apparently successfully at the time was having land owners put their property in Ag Security. According to the article, about 1/3 of the entire land area of Susquehanna County was enrolled. Although it is probably a remote possibility, we should be aware that Susquehanna County could be looked at again. Last time, they were looking for a “willing county” Will they this time? It appears the Farm Bureau may be a good resource in this matter for those who are interested.
Almost as recent: It was reported in the Binghamton Press a couple of days ago that New York Senator Schumer (D), who, with the support of NY Senator Clinton (D), PA Senator Specter (R) and Senator Casey(D) are pushing an AMTRAK study regarding restoration of passenger rail service to Binghamton, NY from New York City. The most recent article says the study could begin in a few weeks.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is in the process of or has just finished purchasing the remaining lands of SOLIDA in Oakland Township. It has been suggested this will become a tourist destination for members of the church who wish to visit the place where their founder, Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon. In case you discount the idea, consider this: the church has around 12 million members worldwide; about half live in the US. This property is one of the three most important historical sites in the church’s history. The other two are Palmayra, New York and Nauvoo, Illinois. This potentially could be the biggest thing ever in Susquehanna County regarding tourism and opportunities to become a “destination” rather than a place to pass through. Are we or should we be doing anything to encourage/discourage this?
As previously mentioned, there are other things going on around us. Maybe you know something which could permanently change the future of Susquehanna County. For now, this is a start to what should be a good discussion. Your thoughts?
This article mentions rail road service. What is the status of the Rail Authority in our county? Are these group of people efficient? Or are they slowing progress? Inquiring minds want to know.
Inspiring news about the Mormons/LDS buying up the SOLIDA site. LDS generally runs a self sufficient, closed shop and doesn’t seek outside assistance when it comes to Church matters, but if they do decide to develop the site at all you can rest assured it will be done right and with great dignity, Harmony being probably their most revered site of all. My mother was Mormon and I came to know many of them quite well - they are without exception fine, dedicated people.
I think it would behoove the county to approach the Church and see how we can facilitate their plans, whatever they are, making it clear we do not seek to have input on the manner of development but instead want to work with the Church to help maintain the sanctity and dignity of the site as THEY see fit. It’s not ours, it’s theirs. Our interest should not be to see what it can add to tourism - that will take care of itself because it will be done right if done at all.
It might be a welcome gesture for the county to have a committee of local people investigate the Palmyra, NY and Nauvoo, IL sites to educate ourselves as to what’s been done there - in other words, show we are sincere and supportive by knowing what these sites mean to the Mormons, the history and significance behind those places and how the Church feels is best to preserve them - that would go a long way toward establishing some credibility and a good working relationship with LDS. We need to recognize the important piece of American history we have here, not necessarily for tourism’s sake but for the innate significance of Joseph Smith’s site to America’s only home grown religion.