To the Editor,

I read with interest the article “Residents seek town makeover from HGTV.” Michelle and Kim, I applaud your effort and interest in bringing HGTV to Wright City to do a Main street makeover. I can’t imagine any resident not wanting the town to look attractive and respectable.

My concern is that without the support of city ordinances that would enforce basic maintenance and appearance standards of property, both residential and business, your hard work at getting buildings renovated and improved are likely in vain. 

Without anyone to enforce their upkeep, I fear it’s just a matter of time before your hard work becomes denigrated by the “you can’t make me give a care attitude” that prevails on too many front porches and properties littered with junk.

I grew up in Wright City at a time when people took care of their property. Over the decades I have watched with sadness the number homes and businesses that have been allowed to become run-down. 

The beautiful cemetery that you mention in your profile is indeed a point of pride. However, its upkeep is the result of the efforts and standards of the Memorial Society, not the city of Wright City. This town needs such a society for residences and businesses. 

Good looking towns have them in the form of city ordinances that are well-designed and enforced. 

Virginia McCoy Wise
St. Charles