I apologize for the late blog entry on the Chamber of Commerce’s City Council Candidate's Forum. In all honesty, if people had not reminded me, I wouldn’t have written this entry.
I appreciated meeting some of the candidates at the forum. I didn’t take notes, believing that any impact would surely be remembered. Later that evening, when reflecting, I must admit that not much stuck. All I had was general impressions, but that too, is part of the ‘sorting it out’ process.
The candidate’s introductions seemed so ‘marketing-ish’ that I lost interest. My nature is such, that I desire to grasp their uniqueness, understand their individuality, . . . not listen to their canned marketing spewl.
Sheila Grattan (who I met for the first time that evening), shared the chronology of events that led to her relocation to Palm Springs. She appeared personable, tangible and real. I like her ability to relax and simply be herself. Thank you.
Bob Mahlowitz got my interest when he talked about his involvement and leadership in the formation of the Desert Arts Incubator Group. I anticipate the group’s focus is to support the arts as a vital part of the Palm Springs experience. This thought connected with my deep love of the arts. It’s my belief that passionate tourists on vacation, crave to be drenched in intensity and desire to experience life through various venues including the arts. I don’t know anything about this group, but the thought of supporting and showcasing the arts in our community really captured my interest. I am listening Bob . . .
The candidates communication regarding the Fashion Plaza left me frustrated. Candidates, I need action plans, details, layouts, please bring me a long . . . Fancy words and simply saying 'get rid' of it so we have a ‘corridor’ to the Convention Center, left me shaking my head. There’s quite a bit of distance between the Fashion Plaza and the Convention Center. Are you planning on bulldozing a path through The Spa, Hilton? What does all this mean? Then there’s the recommendation of a ‘promenade’.... Huh? That’s a nice image, kind of like a fairy tale... but help me understand what exactly are you talking about. I am not saying these recommendations are wrong. However, as a council member, you will need to communicate your plan and work to bring the residents along. I know you only had a minute to respond, but you were also given space in The Desert Sun to respond to that same question, and I'm still confused.
Vic Gainer shared his plans, articulating his solutions to issues. I appreciate his clarity to talk about the specific, stating the need for two more firemen, and police officers. He was specific and clear. Lee Weigel took pride in his years of serving our community and rightfully so, understanding it from an inside-out perspective has much value. I was pleased when Roxann Ploss stated that her number one priority was the health and well-being of the residents. At a time when tourism and growing business seems to overshadow the needs of the residents, it was refreshing that someone said the residents were their priority.
All the candidates were professional and respectful. It appears that maybe I did get more out of the forum that I originally thought. I am looking forward to future gathering and opportunities to get to know the candidates. Still pondering and still sorting it all out . . .
