Das Opinion Letter

[ The following is an opinion letter Das wrote that was published in the SBN-P, 5/14/2006 ]

CHANGE ON THE HORIZON: DAS WILLIAMS


We are caught in a difficult bind here on the South Coast. If we do nothing to address our lack of housing that is affordable for people who work and live here, we will face increasing traffic and congestion as commuters clog up the freeways and use neighborhood streets as alternative routes. On the other hand, if we develop our open spaces and agricultural lands, we will lose the unique beauty that is the reason we live here in the first place.

Regional land-use and transportation planning is the key to solving this dilemma without compromising our quality of life. What happens in the city of Santa Barbara affects people living west of the city, and what happens in the agricultural lands of Goleta affects the residents of Santa Barbara.

If I were elected Second District supervisor, I would represent the interests of all residents of the district, whether you live in the city of Goleta, Santa Barbara or the unincorporated lands. I feel that includes commenting on major development proposals, since that's exactly what will negatively impact our quality of life.

Fortunately, as a Santa Barbara City Council member, I have been part of a great team that is working to plan the future livability of our community, and as supervisor, I will continue to work with them to reduce traffic congestion, protect our open space, and conserve water resources.

I have also received the support of leading environmental protection groups and community leaders, including Sierra Club, League of Conservation Voters, Vote the Coast, former Supervisor Bill Wallace and the mayors of both Goleta and Santa Barbara, Jonny Wallis and Marty Blum.


Sincerely,

DAS WILLIAMS

Santa Barbara News-Press