The Neglect of Calendula Street – “Look At Me”

Today I want to talk about something that has been bothering me for a long time.

I want to address the neglect of Calendula Street in Newtown, better known as “Look At Me.” Many people in Newtown can trace their roots back to this street. There is so much history connected to Calendula Street, but that is a story for another day.

What concerns me is the condition of the street itself.

I want to address the Municipality, our Councillor, and every political party operating in Newtown. I want to ask, with tears in my eyes: When was the last time you set foot in Calendula Street?

Let me show you what it looks like today.

Water is constantly running through the street. There is mud everywhere. Grass is growing into the roadway. There is barely enough space for vehicles to pass. Sewage is flowing down the street, creating a serious health risk for our elderly residents and for the children who play there every day.

There is also an electrical pole hanging by a thread, threatening to fall into the road at any moment. This is a disaster waiting to happen.

I grew up in the dusty streets of Calendula Street, and 44 years later, it remains a dirty, neglected, dusty street. How is this acceptable?

Something needs to be done immediately.

Send someone to fix the sewage running through the street.

Send someone to repair the electrical pole before someone gets hurt.

Send someone to grade and scrape the road so that people can walk safely and vehicles can drive without difficulty.

This matter requires immediate attention.

To every political party in Newtown: here is your opportunity to show us what you can do for the people.

And to the Municipality: do your job.

The residents of Calendula Street deserve better. The elderly deserve better. Our children deserve better.

The time for promises is over.

It’s time for action.