First impressions are lasting ones

Carson City could use some strong statements about correcting the eyesores around town.

Statements like: "For Carson City to have a nuisance and a blight is uncalled for."

That's Supervisor Pete Livermore talking about an abandoned raceway in need of cleanup by its Sacramento developer. But those words ought to apply to a whole lot more than just that one location.

Even the Chamber of Commerce, in its July newsletter, was frank about the need for a good sprucing up in Carson City " something it referred to as "curb appeal," or the ability to make a good first impression.

The article focused on empty stores and government buildings, as well as property owners who simply aren't keeping their properties clean and updated.

If you don't believe those things are a big problem, just ask anyone visiting the city for the first time ... "first impressions make lasting impressions," said the chamber article.

And imagine if those visitors are business owners or entrepreneurs looking for new opportunities, or families looking for a place to enjoy a good quality of life. Would they see that here before they drive past the city limits? It's quite possible they would, because this city has much to offer and many reasons for its residents to be proud.

But it's also quite possible they'll focus on the run down buildings ... that problem is real.

The question now is what can the city do about it?

- This editorial represents the view of the Nevada Appeal Editorial Board