My thoughts on some of the hot-button issues
- Eminent Domain is theft, pure and simple. I stand for the rights of the individual. The use of Eminent Domain represents the absolute failure of government to negotiate an equitable solution for all parties. I reject its use in all circumstances. Isaac Asimov said it best in 1941: "Violence is the last refuge of the incompetent."
- Downtown growth: I support adding residential units downtown now, to start building the critical mass of people required to support a thriving area. More residents will lead to more businesses and more entertainment, which in turn leads to more visitors.
- Redevelopment Agency: I support the principle of the RDA - it's a great tool for encouraging development. Oversight is critical to ensuring that the right kinds of projects are supported. In particular, projects that are planned (planned!) to create negative cashflow for the city should not be supported. Your vote is instrumental in determining the kind of leadership that will guide the RDA. As mentioned above, I do not support granting Eminent Domain authority to the RDA in any form.
- Attracting new businesses: This is the top priority of the next council, whether they recognize it or not. Without new businesses, the only revenue sources are increased taxes, or higher gas prices. Neither is desirable. I don't know who mentioned a comprehensive Environmental Impact Study for the entire downtown, that could apply to all proposed businesses in the area, but that's one idea that is a really good way to start reducing the burden on new potential employers. We need policies that encourage the right businesses to be here, and not somewhere else.
- Listening to citizens: I don't believe we need to pay consultants to teach us how to listen. We just need to realize that listening is important. I'd like to see more small gatherings like the campaign forums, where groups of people can interact directly with the council without the beauracratic overhead of a formal council meeting. I'd also like to set up a web-based "suggestion box", and to encourage people to contact me directly by e-mail or phone call with their ideas or concerns.
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