Transparency & communication

I would like more transparency and communication from the city to the residents. Over the last 5½ years of serving on the City Council, I have done my best to listen and learn, formulate thoughts, and ask questions that help me make decisions that affect the city. I have come into this position with an open mind, without any pre-formed conceptions or ideas.

I feel that the city staff is doing a good job managing the city budget and taking care of the needs of the city, including improving infrastructure. Overall, I feel this is done honestly and with good intent for our residents. But I have witnessed countless residents come to City Council meetings to make a public comment and leave frustrated that their question didn’t get answered or that a vote followed that went against their opinion.

I have a couple of ideas that I believe would improve transparency and communication with residents. I would love to have a specific time for residents to come and “meet the mayor” to discuss topics that concern them, questions they have about city processes, or anything in general they’d like more information on about city government. I feel a time for open dialogue would enhance the overall confidence residents have in our city leadership, increase trust, and potentially help us get more information about what residents want or don’t want.

Often we hear from a few people who are more outspoken about something, but we don’t hear from the majority. I have been canvassing for City Council twice, and now I’m beginning that process in my run for mayor. What I hear from people is that in general, they’re pretty happy with West Point. They don’t love the growth, but they understand it and want affordable options for housing for their kids and grandkids.

When we make decisions as a Council, we must take into account everyone—not just the few who happen to disagree—and we must look forward with a long-term vision for the city. Something I say often regarding Council decisions is: “I feel most people would make the same decision I’m making if they had the information I have.”

I really think there’s a lot to how a city runs, and it takes time to learn it. We can’t just say no to a development that fits our code and general plan, because a property owner has rights—and if they follow the guidelines, then they’re welcome to use their property as they choose.

I want our residents to understand why the city does things the way it does, and I’m willing to take time to help them understand and learn. One thing I do all the time is put myself in the position of another person. For example, if you owned some land and wanted to build a big garage on it, and came to the city with a plan that fit the code, you would want it to be approved, right?

When we are making code, we have to take into account how that garage would affect your neighbors. There are so many factors that go into every decision. You know the adage that things in government move slowly? It’s because the decisions aren’t taken lightly. There is much thought and deliberation in each and every decision that is made.

I’d love to hear some of your ideas on how you’d like to see improved communication and transparency from your city.