An opinion may comment on what is or influence what will be.
Jefferson City officials now are in the process of hosting a series of town hall meetings to gather resident input on the future of our community.
We have heard and published numerous and varied opinions on the activities, priorities and direction of Jefferson City.
Now is the time for residents to participate in a public forum, engage in discussion, voice an informed opinion and influence the future.
An estimated 50 people attended the first of three scheduled meetings focusing on four projects, including: a conference center, a multi-purpose building, downtown parking and the prison redevelopment site.
In the aftermath of the initial meeting, we have heard opinions - and complaints - about priorities and projects, specifically a conference center.
Everyone certainly is entitled to their own opinions, but informed opinions based on facts are much more persuasive.
And, informed opinions offered to influence and shape the future are more productive than complaints lodged after decisions have been made.
City officials not only are inviting public input, they are encouraging it. City Administrator Nathan Nickolaus characterized the sessions as "sort of a large focus group," and Mayor Eric Struemph said the three scheduled meetings are "only the beginning."
We, too, urge resident participation. The remaining scheduled town hall meetings will be held at 6:30 p.m. today at Thomas Jefferson Middle School and at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at Lewis and Clark Middle School.
The doors are open. Cross the threshold of a town hall meeting and be part of planning our community's future.