Economic growth

By Pat McCullough

Increasing economic development is the responsibility of leaders who want an improved future for Oakland.

Substantial crime reduction will tremendously improve the perception of Oakland among residents, visitors, and investors. Certain risks are an accepted part of the considerations of business investors when they evaluate the suitability of a site. But few dare move into a crime-ridden community, and even fewer are successful upon taking on that challenge. All economic growth in Oakland depends on a reduction in crime and an increase in the public's perception of safety.

There are many areas in Oakland suitable for the growth of housing, but only a small, dwindling area is available for the growth of industry. In order to have a place for our residents to work - other than in housing construction and retail jobs, which do not generate new wealth - we must preserve the industrial areas around our estuary and waterfront for industrial use and compatible retail. Any housing built in that area should not become the nuisance-plaintiff tail wagging the dog, like the neighbors who recently moved into West Oakland near a yeast factory and then complained about the smell.

Preserving historic and culturally significant structures and green places should be as important to developers as it is to those who will fight them over their destruction. With sufficient consideration for the existing residents' enjoyment of privacy, sunlight and views, and with proper notice and communication, developers will find less resistance and greater profit in bringing compatible development to our neighborhoods.

This enlightened self-interest will result in housing and commercial building developers refraining from advancing their desires to the detriment of existing community. Although they may have a right to build as they wish, it must become in their self-interest not to automatically act on that right.