Growing Better, Not Bigger - Position Paper Two

By Eleanor "Ellie" Sluis

Growing better not bigger means solving issues such as the increase in traffic, maintenance of facilities, and overdevelopment.

Growth is inevitable, but I want to protect the character of Novato's neighborhoods by making sure that new development is consistent with what's already in place. I also want to protect long-term investments made by Novato's many small local businesses.

The current climate of rapid growth promotes "bigger is better". Is it?

When too much expansion happens too fast, poor decisions are made. Big visions and big money interests drown out the voices of those who live here, destroying the core values of our town. I care deeply about saving those qualities for our children and grandchildren. My candidacy is about controlling growth, promoting the `Go Green' movement, making sure our tax dollars are spent wisely and appropriately, and balancing the city budget with money already available to us. I encourage you to vote for me, Eleanor Sluis on November 6.

My top priority is to help resolve Novato's ongoing issues. These are an increase in traffic, maintenance of facilities, and overdevelopment. With traffic issues we need to increase bus service, plan for shuttles, and encourage larger employers to partner with residents for bus services. On lack of maintenance we need to paint facilities such as the Community House and repair the Hamilton pool, likewise we need to repair the gymnasiums. It has been proven that for every dollar we spend for activities for the students that we save almost 10 dollars keeping them out of the criminal justice system.

Lastly we need to slow overdevelopment. Novato's uniqueness is in retaining its small town character, yet finding solutions for these issues with public involvement and cooperation. I can help our city spend wisely in solving these issues.