Tribune Candidate's Questionnaire

By Jim Dickens

1. What would you pursue to provide more affordable and diverse housing in Arroyo Grande?

Providing available housing for all income levels will be a high priority in my next four-years. This can be accomplished through incentives to the building industry and constructing affordable housing, in stead of in-lieu-fees. The SLO Housing Trust Fund can also provide on-going resources dedicated to meeting regional housing needs.

2. What would you do to relieve traffic congestion immediately? Would you favor reopening Crown Hill road to through traffic? Do you have ideas on how to relieve increased traffic in the Village?

There are two road segments that need immediate attention. The Brisco/Halcyon underpass and Fair Oaks Avenue around the High School. Two project studies are under way to offer recommendations for the public to discuss. No, I do not believe there is a justifiable rational for reopening Crown Hill.

3. Do you prefer eccentric architectural designs in the Village, or favor more businesses and homes built or remodeled in the style of the early 1900s?

I support strengthening the Guidelines for our Historic Village District to reflect a variety of early 1880's to 1940's architectural styles. The Village is our greatest asset and identifier. New development and major remodels should be evaluated with clear, predictable standards as to scale, style and historic preservation.

4. What would you do to encourage the continuation and financial stability of the more than 300 acres of farmland in the City?

I promoted the first permanent agricultural conservation easement on the 40-acre Dixson Ranch. In collaboration with State and Federal farmland protection programs, the Gordon Dixson Trust was fairly compensated for restricting development. This effort increased farm income, reduced property taxes and ensured the availability of agricultural lands for future generations.