Darlene Burcham was different for Roanoke. She showed the "local yokels" that Roanoke had potential and it needed to spend money. I'm afraid the "power elite" in this City were never comfortable with change. They feel the City is spending too much money on attracting business and not enough on them. In this economic recession

The law does not apply equally to all. Is it a surprise that some people are treated differently when this fact exists? I believe it won't be too long before the public wakes up and puts a stop to it.

Why shouldn't Roanoke have trolleys downtown? The Carilion employees and visitors do use this service which encourages more business acitvity. Charlottesville has had a similar trolley for many years and it is successful there. Norfolk will soon have a light rail system called "The Wave" which will take people around the downtown area

I like the proposal to build such a venue downtown. It makes good financial sense with the spin off business generated to the market area. Since it is a short walk to the new Art museum perhaps a yearly arts festival would integrate the museum with performance options. I think this proposal has great potential for downtown but I am afraid the citizens

As a Roanoke City resident I don't like the idea of closing schools. I believe these actions to balance the budget will only inflame many parents who will move out of the City. If there is no alternative the suggestion of closing Huff Lane and Round Hill to be at the top of the list.

There is always a misconnect when anyone suggests "change" around the market. I am sure most Roanokers were against "change" after the disastrous flood in the 80's to give new life to the downtown area. I am glad there are still people in Roanoke who aren't stuck in the past that can plan for the future. I don't personally

Roanoke City Council doesn't need another controversy. Could someone please help Sherman Lea understand the law?

. I would like to see the building become an extension of the outdoor market. The downtown market needs a mixture of retail, food vendors, coffee shop, flower market, bakery, deli, meat/fish market, etc. If another Hotel is ever built downtown this facility will compliment the visitors to the downtown area. The concept of a food court was a start and

I visited the Ukrops today 12.20.08 and noticed an increase in shoppers. I could be due to the Holidays. Obviously there are many variables that aren't working right now for this store. I don't think the solution is to close down. I can't believe Mr. Ukrops would build such a beautiful store if he didn't think there was potential in

The Taubman museum is a magnificient piece of architecture. I believe it will become a signature building for Roanoke and perhaps Virginia. Whenever I visit New York City the most memorable building for me is the Guggenheim museum. As a child visiting NYC I always remembered the winding walkway. I hope todays' kids will enjoy this building and perhaps