Letter to the Editor: LFP Candidate Forum

To the Editor:

Last Tuesday evening citizens listened to candidates for LFP Council present views on issues and answer citizen questions. All candidates responded to the number of dwelling units they felt was appropriate for the development of Town Center. Responses ranged from 150 to 1,100 units.

Candidates talked about how communications (with citizens) could be improved. This was a bit disingenuous, as this council has cancelled 50% of scheduled public meetings, and minimized the citizens submitted 330 letters of concern. Citizens have had one three-minute comment period to express Town Center concerns. As in the past the Council has talked about the need for better communication but have failed to address this issue.

Given the huge outcry from citizens over the TC plan during the public viewing and hearing, this pushback from citizens resulted in a 7 – 0 vote approving a 6 month moratorium. The Planning Commission has been directed to make TC development recommendations to the Council. Their first recommendation to Council was that a 300-stall garage would change the character of Town Center and that alternative locations should be considered.

Under the direction of the Council the General Fund has been reduced by $963,000 using several consultants for the develop plans and code resulting with an unacceptable plan. (Monies that could have paid for Safe-Streets sidewalks, park improvements, more salmon culverts, and traffic calming, etc.)

What was clear to me in this forum is there is one candidate who is more than qualified to deal with this mess, who shares the popular views of citizens, who has actually listened to hundreds of citizens concerns these past months and who offers solutions not only for balanced growth but also putting forth communications and budget solutions.  Lorri Bodi has my vote.

Jack Tonkin
Lake Forest Park