Governments in free societies around the world have paid dearly for being a part of questionable decisions that in the eyes of the public, lack logic and common sense, in order to achieve some lofty goal they claim, will enhance the economic base for this or that project.During one of the most difficult economic periods Bermuda has experienced perhaps since the war years, people from all walks of life are growing increasingly concerned about the direction of this island, despite undergoing a change of Government last December.It is a well-known fact that Bermudas enormous debt, which was blamed by many on management by the previous administration, meant any new administration would need to work wonders, in trying to reverse what seemed an out of control slide to an economic abyss which would hurt the entire population.That issue will be debated for many years to come, but there is no denying that the current state of the economy has even the masterminds of finance searching for a way out.This is why there is strong reaction to anything that gives the impression that insufficient thought has been given to seeking how best to move forward, without a type of robbing Peter to pay Paul method, with one side reaping benefits at the expense of the other.Most Bermudians are aware of the need for shared sacrifice during these troubling times, and so even it there is an appearance that Government is not pressing hard enough in this area, there will be rumblings from various sections of the community.It is not a question of Government not doing their best to improve the situation, it is really a question of the public perception that really matters.In the end it boils down to the struggling family trying to cling to hope that things will get better.A decision from the Hamilton Corporation aimed at expanding paid parking in the City is troubling because many are already scratching were they do not itch, to meet current expenses of the day.The move has touched a nerve as people wonder how a cash strapped organisation could find thousands of dollars to send a team on a trip to hopefully drum up more international business for Bermuda.The people have every right to question this type of activity, when the same objective perhaps could be achieved with less expense, making use of modern video link up systems.The Corporation may indeed have a legitimate reason for embarking on such a costly venture, but in the present economic climate, it raises more questions than answers.The Hamilton Corporation has carried out many positive projects to improve the City and they should be commended.However even they know that criticism at times is a part of the process, since no one or no organisation is perfect.It is encouraging to know that the Attorney General will be taking a look at the issue of expanding paid parking in the City of Hamilton, as a result of mounting outrage, that the proposed scheme will take a bigger bite out of the pockets of those already economically hard pressed.Another concern is that some businesses without their own parking facilities could be affected.Much more thought should have been given to the scheme before jolting the public with news that free parking would be scrapped in order to raise revenue for the Corporation.It had the tone of a boardroom decision without consideration of how this might impact people who find free parking helpful even it means longer walks.Every disagreement in the area of public service should never be allowed to escalate into heated exchanges, which happens too often when situations are sensitive.We can only hope a cool hard look will take place on the whole issue of parking in the city in a way that would benefit the Corporation, without putting a greater strain on the pockets of those who find it necessary to do business in the City.People really do matter, and even in the planning of major changes to our water front, the people should be kept in tune throughout every move, in order to feel a part of changes that will not only effect this generation, but those still to come.The development of Bermuda is the business of everyone who takes pride in this land we call home.