We are more than fortunate to have a town square that, even in the toughest of times, has been the centerpiece of everyday life in the Newton County/Covington communities.

The square has attracted movie and TV production and has been the focal point of tourism for years.

The economic benefits we have derived from having such a picturesque square in the middle of our downtown cannot be definitively calculated.

The square itself is county property; the county does not currently have the money to maintain it at the necessary level.

We are glad to see that county leaders have recognized this reality and have reached agreements with the city to sustain the square property and with the chamber to oversee a schedule of events at the square.

We have confidence that all three groups will continue to work together to ensure that the square remains the center point of our community for years to come.