Last week was one of those weeks when it seemed like the wheels were coming off in Richland County.

First, residents in Lambert debated whether the school should pay for the creation of a $3 million golf course, which would include artificial turf for the greens and tees. The meeting featured some personal attacks that seemed uncalled for.

Then, contract negotiations continued between Sidney’s teachers. That meeting also involved some comments that were spoken out of frustration. We know that speaking badly about our neighbors isn’t how Richland County normally operates. We believe in seeing the best in our fellow residents. We believe in working together to make our area the best it can be. Despite a few bad comments here and there, however, overall the meetings were filled with good intentions.

In Lambert, people, both visitors and the trustees, want the top education possible for their kids. Some community members simply thought that a golf course would attract more students, which Lambert badly needs. But there’s little doubt that deep down all are in favor of improving the school.

In Sidney, trustees want to reward its quality teachers but one of the primary debates is that they can’t agree on if teachers should receive health reimbursement funds or a cash bonus. There’s simply frustrations on both sides that it’s taking this long to reach an agreement.

But probably the largest concern of the week came when the sugar beet growers voted down a contract offer with Sidney Sugars. If a decision isn’t reached, it could spell the end for having the sugar processing factory in Sidney.

If the factory does close, the impact would be far reaching. Many jobs would be lost. The county and schools would lose tax money. Just about every business in town would be affected including restaurants, furniture stores, clothing stores, etc. You name the business, and it probably will be hurt by not having Sidney Sugars around.

We urge the two sides to reach some form of an agreement. A compromise probably won’t make either side totally happy, but people must remember what’s best for our entire community. It’s too big of a decision for people not to think beyond the big picture.

Working together is what makes our area great. Hopefully, beet growers and American Crystal are shining examples of that during the next few weeks.