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Level 6
Written by Jeong-Won Maeng
17/8/2024
In recent years, the development of the city many call home, has accelerated in ways unimaginable to previous generations that resided in the metropolis that we call home today. From a bustling business district, to countless leadership changes that have spurred on advancements in the average citizen’s welfare, Karakura has seen it all. However, change is a constant in the element of time, and without change, a city that thrives on its ever-talented and diverse residents, may see its fall. Thus, this begs the question, what else does Karakura have yet to see? What else should we strive for, to keep our home afloat?
This article dives into different sectors that may influence the everyday resident’s life. Starting with the economical side of our city, what is approaching our expectations, and what is there that can be improved on? Firstly, following the latest influx of shopkeepers, new established businesses have started popping up in the city centre, and at the heart of a foodie’s heaven; the Shopping District. On top of new, freshly-minted businesses appearing in our all-favourites places around town, we have seasoned, and older enterprises continuing their endeavours! The writer, among some readers, is truly heartened that the economic aspect of Karakura is always well looked at, and reviewed regularly to keep up with economical trends and demands.
Top: An established business in Karakura.
However, there is always much to work on, especially in the economical aspect. Although our range of businesses are always checked on, and kept up to standard, there still leaves an empty chunk of storefronts not rented out, or used for any business ventures. These spaces have turned into dead shells of former businesses, or even, simply left as unrenovated, empty spaces, vacant for the foreseeable future. What can be done to these spaces? This writer suggests that, since they could possibly house budding entrepreneurs among the youth or even adults, regular pop-ups could be hosted at these spaces, making use of the stores to host smaller creators, or businesspeople! Another suggestion would be to turn these empty storefronts into fully-functional spaces for established businesses, although that would be the obvious answer in this situation. Regardless of outcome, the writer does look forward to seeing what could become of these empty shells to house budding businesses!
Top: One of the empty stores that can be found at the pier.
In another point of view, the social development of Karakura has much to improve on. Karakura is a city that relies on its people, much like other major cities in the world. With a good quality of living standard among the people, brings a better outlook on the city, and in turn contributes to productivity, which affects economies. However, can many attest to a ‘good quality of living’? Many youths lament about the apathy of others, especially their own age group. However, what can be done? The writer feels that having an important support system, starting from the school’s own support system for their students, is a good way to start.
What about citizen participation? This writer had interviewed a public servant, namely, Ms. Sakura-Ki, for her expertise. When asked about what citizens can do to participate in their city’s improvement, the following answer was given: Citizens are welcome to visit the town hall with their suggestions, and speak to an available public servant, such as a Governor, for their ideas. If the Governor deems the suggestion worth discussing, they may take it up with the council in Town Hall, which includes the Mayor of Karakura. However, another way that the populace can contribute to changes includes citizen surveys, which occurs when generally, Governors, interview and survey residents about their opinions on an issue, similar to what this writer does, and puts their opinions into factoring when it comes to new policies or quality-of-life changes. When asked about how the government body convenes to discuss changes and the residents’ opinions, Ms. Sakura-Ki mentioned that the body meets every so often to discuss happenings, changes, and possible suggestions that pop up, if relevant to the discussions held that day. There, citizens’ discussions may surface as part and as factors into resolving issues, and making policy changes.
Top: The heart of the city’s activities, the Business District.
In summary, our city has much to work on, but akin to most major cities around the world, we all face the same plight of having to change, and adapt to new circumstances. Change is constant, and as a city, Karakura has much to strive for, from economic opportunity, to the simple act of human empathy for our fellow citizens. But, what can you, the reader, do? As a contributing citizen, regardless of age and occupation, you are entitled to your own opinion, which can be beneficial, and even productive to the bettering of Karakura. The writer encourages you, the reader, to speak up about issues you believe are compelling to you, and issues that you see need to change, such as the ones mentioned above.
Until then, stay hydrated!
Saw an interesting event occur? Want something to be reported? Contact me at 030-515-6171, Karakura News Hotline, 020-980-4487 or our Onrain, @KaNews!
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