Part II
In Part I , I shared a different perspective concerning Urban development. It focused on how a city can encourage investment without losing control of the development process. Intelligent Urbanism was based on the ideal that the ultimate purpose of a city is to foster human development. I think it's time for us as citizens of this community to remind ourselves what the original purpose of government actually is. Government exist for the purpose of serving the needs and wishes of the people and to provide for the collective good of its citizens. This "Social Contract" is the foundation of modern democracy. Government does not exist nor should it exist to serve itself and I say this with all due respect to the members of the City Council.
Many of Plainfield's previous urban renewal projects were big on promises and short on delivery. The Teppers and Park-Madison projects are a reminder that we've seen this whole charade before and another shiny building will neither capture our imagination nor inspire us to reach for greatness. I don't mean to suggest that these projects don't serve the public in some fashion but when you look at how they were originally touted I think its fair to say they have been a financial disappointment to the city. Specifically in regards to the projected economic impact and tax revenue that was expected. Make no mistake, there is an opportunity cost associated with projects that don't meet their original financial objectives. Long after developers have left Plainfield our taxpayers will continue to pay for the results. Failed projects reduce the confidence and participation levels of even the most passionate citizen. It's a big reason why I feel that so few people even come to City council meetings. How good of a job has your current Councilperson done on keeping you informed on proposals that could ultimately have a huge impact on your quality of life?
As your Councilman I would support the following...
5 Fundamentals of Responsible Development
#1 All development proposals that reach the level of serious consideration by the council would require a feasibility study to be posted on local media outlets and the City's website. This would ensure the public receive full disclosure concerning any potential socioeconomic impact on our city.
#2 In order to induce investment we need to embrace technology and innovation as a municipality so residential, retail and commercial markets are operating at optimal efficiency. When markets are optimized it helps to expand our local economy.
#3 I believe developers should pay their fair share of the cost associated with any new development and should guarantee a certain percentage of the workforce comes from residents of Plainfield.
#4 We need a multi-generational mentor program that brings our Seniors and Retired Professionals together with our young people. This will not only strengthen our local economy but our sense of community.
#5 I would vote NO! on the current attempt to modify the language in the City's Master Plan to allow high density hubs of residential development to invade and replace parcels zoned for commercial purposes. In addition the so called "transit village strategy" would increase traffic flow which would undoubtedly result in more cars speeding through our neighborhoods.
Let's just use a little bit of common sense. Our police department is understaffed. The inspection division is scheduled to see a reduction in personnel this month. Lack of code enforcement has already led to several recent fires. The frequency of these fires puts additional pressure on our fire department. Look at the condition of our roads. We have million dollar homes with 10"deep potholes directly in front of them. We don't need more people right now what we need is more well paying jobs.
"It's been a long time coming--But I know a change is gonna come"
Look for part III on Saturday.
A)Why Economic Development is the answer for Plainfield.
B) I will be discussing why I do not support the transit village idea as it currently proposed.
If you have question or comments reach me at 908-472-9421
You also e-mail me at tony@tonyrucker.com
Find out more or ccontribute at http://www.tonyrucker.com/
I appreciate your time and Thank for you vote on June 5th!
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2 comments:
We need development in the downtown area. What is you plan to bring more business there? Do you write you own blog or not. It's very well written. I like your ideas will you be speaking anywhere?
This is the wife of the guy that just wrote you. The problem I have with Storch is I don't where he stands. He like Plainfields version of John Kerry he was against Jerry Green before he was with him. But I've heard he's just using him to win. Either way that's kind of pathetic. I noticed you haven't attacked him. Don't you'll earn alot of respect from this family staying on the issues.
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