THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT 
              Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: Sunday, August 7, 1994                 TAG: 9408050237
SECTION: PORTSMOUTH CURRENTS      PAGE: 06   EDITION: FINAL 
TYPE: Editorial 
                                             LENGTH: Short :   39 lines

CITIZENS WANT TO SEE ACTION: AFTER THE TALKING

Portsmouth is famous for ``studying'' itself, but what comes of suggestions from expensive consultants and hard-working citizen groups?

Citizens from across town were asked at a city-sponsored meeting last Wednesday to send ``messages'' to City Council.

One of the loud and clear messages was the desire of citizens to see some action after the talking is done. As one active businessman put it, most people want the city to do something besides stack one study on top of another. He added that sometimes the city has to move even if the direction is not always right on target.

Another citizen said the public believes that if an influential person or group does not like a consultant's recommendation or a citizens' suggestion, a report will be shelved - no matter how valid it might be.

The three-hour session Wednesday produced many positive comments and suggestions. About 50 or 60 citizens from all segments of the population exhibited good sense and judgment about the city's forward strides as well as its shortcomings.

The meeting was an exercise that is a prelude to a council retreat next Thursday to discuss the city's goals for the coming years. It was a spontaneous revelation of public intelligence.

When a room full of diverse citizens with many opinions can frankly and calmly discuss city policy, they are an unparalleled resource for elected officials, who sometimes seem to heed most those who scream the loudest.

Officials will do themselves a favor if they pay close attention to the citizens' comments, which will be presented to them at the coming retreat.

KEYWORDS: PORTSMOUTH CITY COUNCIL by CNB