On the right track

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By the Times Editorial Board | Thursday, May 15, 2008 9:07 PM CDT | () comments

Before a single paintbrush is lifted, we’ll commend the Davenport City Council for an initiative that would have been unimaginable even a few months ago.

A team of council members is scheduled to be at the Freight House on Saturday to put a new coat of paint on that eyesore of a rusty rail car. They’ll be there not for a ribbon cutting or ceremonial turn of a shovel. Sixth Ward Alderman Jeff Justin suggested that aldermen help with the onerous prep work — scraping and sandblasting — that makes the painting that much easier.

One enthusiastic participant will be 2nd Ward Alderman Sean Hamerlinck, who voted against the lease and incentives putting new businesses in the old Freight House.

No matter. Hamerlinck says he’ll put his political differences aside to pitch in.

“Aldermen picking up a shovel and doing the work we expect others to do is a proactive step. It shows we’re willing to chip in and help out rather than just being figureheads.”

Actions indeed speak louder than words. This side-by-side solidarity shows how quickly the actions of this council make it easy to forget those of the past.