An open letter to the Astoria City Council: After reading the Astoria Bicentennial Projects that you are considering (Which Astoria project is the legacy gift? The Daily Astorian, Nov. 22), which are all important to the city, the question needs to be asked: Why do we need to build or start something else we cant afford to build or maintain in the future?

If the city has money to spend, why cant we start by doing something with the old buildings east of the old train station, last used by the food bank. I realize the buildings are hidden from the highway traffic, but every year 3,500 to 4,000 people who experience the waterfront from the trolley, and people who walk/jog the Riverwalk, are exposed to these buildings, which are also a major fire and safety issue.

Hopefully the Council already has a plan in place for the buildings. If not, please consider them at one of your future meetings.

TED LANGDON

Astoria