Change of city image

By Sandra (Gore) Nielsen

It is time for Pismo Beach to leave the old days behind and become a respected leader in the county.

Most of us know the sometimes painful and embarrassing history of city politics. I believe the era of the Old Boys Club is over and that the new demographics of Pismo Beach demand a higher level of sophistication and foresight. We need to move beyond personal politics and look to community solutions for improving the downtown and creating an environment more reflective of the residential areas.

Let's raise the standard of the city council meeting itself. A more business-like and efficient atmosphere, a little less small-town, would benefit everyone. Pressure should be on council members to reason and deliberate more, and ramble and opine less. I want a Robert's Rules of Order workshop for the council to help ease some of the rough spots and confusion we have all witnessed.

We are grateful for all of our tourist dollars. But are we leaving money on the table by not exploiting the great natural beauty of our beach and catering to a higher caliber visitor? Change will come slowly, but the rapidly rising cost of real estate can drive that improvement if we plan smart and clean up our act.