Every car driving into Ironton and Lawrence County could hold the key to a bright future. Every visitor could be the one to plant a seed of growth within the community.

To capitalize on all this untapped potential, the city and the entire county must always put its best foot forward. This starts with how the streets, property and entire community look to newcomers.

Visualizing the diamond in the rough becomes difficult for developers or potential residents when all they can see is junk cars, trash and poorly maintained property.

The Ironton Port Authority, under the persistent leadership of Bill Dickens, and countless other volunteers started the process last week by putting up new welcome signs at Ironton's entrances and by cleaning up other areas throughout the county.

This is just the first step. Our elected leaders must build on this momentum and provide the tools for change.

In the city, officials must make sure that all current laws are being enforced and that Ironton's neighborhoods look as good as they possibly can. A visitor will not remember all the beautiful, historic homes. He or she will only focus on the dilapidated structure that becomes blight for the entire block and whole neighborhood.

If a property owner refuses to comply, let them explain their situation to a judge.

We understand the city has limited resources but keeping the city beautiful should always be of the highest priority.

In the other villages and rural parts of Lawrence County, zoning must be either enforced or implemented. Without a clear set of guidelines, it becomes difficult for people to know what they must do.

During the 2004 election, zoning was a hot topic, but unfortunately that emphasis has faded. The need for keeping the issue top of mind, however, has not.

Junk cars, dilapidated homes and makeshift landfills are eyesores that destroy the beauty of our community. These problems must be eliminated.

Each time someone visits our community, it may be our last chance to make a good first impression.