Prior to beginning, the point was made that issues
raised may be adversarial in nature with opposing sides not being present to
state their positions on unannounced topics. However, the Council and Staff
being present would be in a position to articulate the city’s views and legal
considerations. This being the maiden voyage of public comments care would be
taken to insure fairness in presentation of issues.
As the process unfolded, one could surmise that
while each presenter was serious about his or her particular issue the level of
importance was readily apparent. Yet the act of actually listening to each
presenter seemed to dissipate the cloak of oppression and inequality expressly
felt by some and the fear of opening the door to criticism felt by others,
slowly melted away. A feeling of unity of purpose in the democratic process
appeared to take hold.
It was nice
to see and hear city staff respond to issues presented in a constructive and
informative manner. It was time to put defensive practices aside and to
address issues on the merits of each topic. All were made to feel welcomed; a true act of Public Service.
Many issues were raised that can be deemed to impact
on the Quality of Life in St. George. My Friends, upon conclusion of Public
Comments each agenda item was addressed and clearly the BIG MONEY issues
brought forward by Zoning and Code Enforcement came to the forefront. GROWTH
and DEVELOPMENT and how we manage it, dominates and consumes Council and Public
Attention.
I noted and appreciated the fact that Public
Comments were allowed to be made on important agenda items. It was impressive
to see the Council NOT get bogged down, by approving Road Construction in the
Little Valley Community and by moving forward on Animal Care and Shelter
issues. The open and frank discussion of
the General Plan and Zoning/Ordinance issues that included an explanation of
FLOOD WAY vs FLOOD PLAIN in the proposed commercial development at 1450 South
and River Road was informative.
THIS brings attention to last week’s article in
which I reported submitting a GRAMA request to the city in order to receive
WRITTEN documentation from the city that
could be shared with you to further enlighten and inform on the matters
pertaining to ACCOUNTABILITY on the issue of Zoning and Code Enforcement.
WELL, I received a letter from the City in response
to this request which I concluded was authorized and approved by the City
Manager and City Attorney which reads as follows: I am in receipt of your GRAMA request
received January 30, 2014, and would like to respond thereto. The information
you are requesting can be found on the City’s website. Please visit www.sgcity.org
and click on “City Codes and Ordinances”. Additionally, the zoning zones are
shown on the City Map which can also be found on the City website by clicking
on “Sgcitymaps application”.
It goes on to state, “You may appeal this decision
by filing a notice of appeal with the City Manager, Gary Esplin”. SO MUCH for trying to keep you better
informed with the spirit of cooperation and public Service received from City
Hall. This attitude appears on its face
to be counter-productive from events described in the city council meeting
described above. Folks, try and navigate through the City website and Utah
Codes, Chapter 9 Records Access and Management Act. (1-9-1 adopted by
reference.) PERHAPS given enough time the defensive posture of the Old Guard at
City Hall will give way to the true meaning of Public Service. “Attitude is a
small thing that makes a BIG difference”. Please forward your concerns for city
issues.
Thank you, Ed
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