Election Update

By Emily Cheng

Over the last few weeks, I have had the great pleasure of speaking to and meeting many of you. I am honored and overwhelmed by your encouragement and endorsements.

I am now even more convinced that my candidacy is on the right track. You are confirming my vision for our wonderful town.

I would like to ask for your vote on March 7!

Over the last few weeks, I have had the great pleasure of speaking to and meeting many of you. I am honored and overwhelmed by your encouragement and endorsements.

I am now even more convinced that my candidacy is on the right track. You are confirming my vision for our wonderful town.

Here's what you are telling me:

Fast Track Ordinance. The Fast Track Ordinance, enacted last year, streamlines the building permit process by eliminating a review at the Planning Commission when the home meets all ordinances and has no substantive neighborhood opposition. While you support this ordinance, you continue to be concerned about the amount of subjectivity and uncertainty in the process. I will clarify our rules so that every resident's application is processed timely, equally, and courteously.

Jim Steiner's supporters were categorically against the implementation of Fast Track.

Permit Fees. You have expressed concern over high building permit fees. I, too, am concerned that our fees may be way out of line with our neighboring communities. Our acting city manager recommended an across the board reduction of 10%. I pledge to you that I will ask for a thorough review with the intent of reducing the fees to the actual cost of administering the permits. State law requires this.

My opponent, Jim Steiner is in favor of the current fee schedule and does not believe that they are too high.

Our Pathway System. I am a staunch supporter of our along-side the road pathway system. These paths are our "sidewalks". They need better maintenance so that our children and all residents can safely walk and bike throughout our neighborhoods. However, I do not support the current policy of requiring mandatory off-road paths (paths that run between homes, through your side yards and back yards). These paths compromise your safety and privacy. They should be voluntary.

Mr. Steiner supports mandatory off-road paths. "Voluntary off-road paths do not work."

Expanded Family Activities. Our town is changing. More families with children are moving in and want more opportunities to get to know each other. These families need to be involved. I will request that the town create a new town committee, Parks and Recreation, dedicated to developing new recreational programs and activities, such as town picnics, neighborhood socials, and better use of our parks and trails.

You recently received a postcard from Mr. Steiner's campaign with a quote from retiring council member, Bill Siegel, saying that this is a swing election and that Jim Steiner will maintain the existing balance on the Council, which represents the minority clique in town.

And how correct Bill Siegel is. A vote for Jim Steiner is a vote against Fast Track. Steiner supporters', Bill Siegel and Elayne Dauber voted against this ordinance. Mayor Pro-tem Steve Finn and Council member Toni Casey not only supported but also initiated this ordinance.

Your vote for me guarantees the Right Balance on the Council that will:

• Improve the Fast Track Ordinance.

• Improve the Pathway System and adopt a Voluntary Off-road Pathway Policy.

• Review Building Permit Fees to assure compliance with State law.

• Seek your opinion on key town issues through town-wide mailings.

• Assure that Council decisions reflect the majority opinion.

Best regards,

Emily Cheng