Candidate for
Board Member; Lakeside Community Planning Area

The role of the Community Planning Group: I believe that the purpose of the Planning Group is to make land use decisions that are in the best interests of the entire community. This means that proposals must be evaluated for their wider impact as well as their benefits to the proposer. The current composition of the LCPG is heavily weighted towards those favoring industrial development. These interests have a right to be represented. But homeowners and small commercial property owners also have a right to a strong voice on the Planning Group. The LCPG should represent the entire community, not just those who are proposing new projects. In addition, the LCPG should support the efforts of the Design Review Board to ensure that new development is in keeping with the Lakeside community character.

Lakeside's Community Character: Lakeside began as a resort town and is blessed with abundant recreational opportunities for its residents: lakes, parks, trails, and sports. The historic downtown area and the rodeo grounds connect us to our past and the western heritage that still finds expression in the farms and ranches in the area. This character is special to the residents of Lakeside and should be preserved in the way in which we manage growth and development in the area. While change is inevitable, it should also be beneficial to both the developers and the homeowners.

Property rights: I am a strong advocate of property rights in the broad sense, because I think that all owners of all property, both residential and commercial, have equal rights. I believe that commercial and industrial property owners must take into account the rights of neighboring property owners. Residents, many of whom have lived in Lakeside for many years, have a right to continue to enjoy the rural atmosphere that they moved here to have. Development should not negatively affect their quality of life or property values.

Economic development: Continued economic development is crucial to the future of Lakeside. However, the need for development must be managed with an eye to the needs of the community and the protection of the environment. Land uses that emphasize indoor manufacturing and minimize outdoor activities should be encouraged. Commercial development should also be designed to benefit the community as a whole. Plans for such development should include specific ways that negative impacts on neighboring property owners, including noise, lights, and traffic congestion, will be mitigated.

The River Park: The River Park will be the culmination of a major effort to provide additional trails and recreational opportunities to Lakeside while restoring the natural environment. Many residents of the area were told that someday there would be a park along the river--and now there will be! The River Park is an excellent example of how private interest and the public good can intersect to the benefit of all.