I will be running as an Independent in ward 6. One example of what I feel is a defining issue for Belleville that I have been involved with is the proposed demolition of the perfectly-good, historically significant Meredith Home on Bellevilles square. It should be pointed out that the Good Government Party unanimously voted to destroy this building and a group of 1600+ Belleville citizens and volunteers worked hard to preserve this building and retain the character of our towns most important showpieces - our square. The Meredith Home (which we have brought numerous capable developers through in the past year - several of whom are submitting proposals this month) and the YMCA/Turner building (which is now occupied by a forward-thinking group with some very innovative plans for Belleville) are just two examples of a crucial decision for the future direction of Belleville. I am motivated to run for City Council, specifically the seat presently held by Mr. Seibert, because I think it is time that our city leadership change their perspective on the value of Bellevilles core. I propose the City of Belleville work together with city visionaries, universities, businesses, school districts and marketers to come up with a plan to market our endangered historic neighborhoods to young professionals who get what Belleville has to offer. Walkable neighborhoods, charming historic homes at extremely low prices, a vibrant downtown, events and so much more. Other cities do this and its time that we did too. By enticing and incentivizing young families to call Bellevilles central neighborhoods home we will raise property values, decrease crime, improve our schools, increase our tax base and return Belleville to the stature it once held in the region. Im not disputing that our city council is made up of good men and women - or that the members of the Good Government Party dont care - but how is it that the only 16 people in Belleville who thought that tearing down our significant architecture is a good idea were all on the city council under the GGP? The answer is that they either didnt want to think outside their leaderships dictates - or they were unable to. It is crucial that Bellevilles leadership change their mindset not simply their name.
Posted on: Sun, 14 Dec 2014 16:08:50 +0000
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