Powell prides itself on being a clean, attractive, All-America city. But driving into town via Avenue E leaves a lot to be desired these days. The first thing drivers see as they approach the city limits is a dilapidated fence, partially blown down by strong winds and many months of disregard. The fence doesn't fit with the image people of Powell have worked hard to cultivate over the years. Yet, so many months after it first collapsed, there it sits.The developer of the Whispering Pines subdivision, Aspen Development, is in bankruptcy — the likelihood they'll repair the subdivision's falling-down perimeter fence any time soon isn't good. The cost to repair or replace the fence wouldn't be cheap. But while common sense indicates it's the developer's responsibility to make repairs, Aspen's financial situation being what it is, it is time for the people of Powell to start a conversation about solving this problem. The city of Powell should take the lead in facilitating a remedy. With permission from the bankruptcy court, a group could certainly find a less-expensive fix — or simply tear it down. City workers alongside volunteers — contractors, Whispering Pines homeowners and others — could tear down the fence or make temporary repairs to make it more presentable, at minimal expense.If someone doesn't take the initiative, that part of Avenue E could remain an eyesore for years to come. No one in Powell wants that.

Powell prides itself on being a clean, attractive, All-America city. But driving into town via Avenue E leaves a lot to be desired these days.

The first thing drivers see as they approach the city limits is a dilapidated fence, partially blown down by strong winds and many months of disregard. The fence doesn't fit with the image people of Powell have worked hard to cultivate over the years. Yet, so many months after it first collapsed, there it sits.

The developer of the Whispering Pines subdivision, Aspen Development, is in bankruptcy — the likelihood they'll repair the subdivision's falling-down perimeter fence any time soon isn't good.

The cost to repair or replace the fence wouldn't be cheap. But while common sense indicates it's the developer's responsibility to make repairs, Aspen's financial situation being what it is, it is time for the people of Powell to start a conversation about solving this problem. The city of Powell should take the lead in facilitating a remedy. With permission from the bankruptcy court, a group could certainly find a less-expensive fix — or simply tear it down.

City workers alongside volunteers — contractors, Whispering Pines homeowners and others — could tear down the fence or make temporary repairs to make it more presentable, at minimal expense.

If someone doesn't take the initiative, that part of Avenue E could remain an eyesore for years to come. No one in Powell wants that.