City Realist
Polling Opposites
Given the mayhem and dysfunction in Washington, congressional midterm elections take on extra significance.
In Sacramento County, the California 7th Congressional District finds incumbent Doris Matsui challenged by City Council Member Mai Vang. It’s the first time in 21 years Matsui meets a serious opponent.
I worked with both candidates during my time on City Council. The contrast between Matsui and Vang is stark. Voters get to choose between a dynastic, legendary figure in city politics or a relative newcomer from the Meadowview suburbs.
City Of Hope
Do you know how your local government works? If you have questions about city services, can you find the answers?
The city tries to be transparent and help residents find information and provide feedback. The city’s website, cityofsacramento.org, contains a wealth of information. But it takes the patience of an elephant to navigate.
The city’s IT department recently introduced an AI tool to help search. I kicked the tires and found the new system makes the website easier to navigate.
Frankly Speaking
Frank Cirill was an important advocate for the creation of the American River Parkway. He was my friend and neighbor for many years in River Park. Cirill died in 2017, but today he’s remembered as the Father of the Parkway.
Cirill was a significant contributor to the American River Parkway Plan that defines the park’s land-use policy and management. He wanted to create a natural, continuous greenbelt along the river and protect the area from riverside development.
The idea was to balance safety, recreation and conservation. Frank said it best: “The Parkway should be protected and enjoyed by the community for generations.”
Good Call
Developers and environmentalists see the world through different lenses. The Airport South Industrial Annexation is a perfect example.
The large-scale development in Natomas basin aims to expand industrial and commercial activities on 447 acres near Sacramento International Airport.
Debate on the project spread over two City Council meetings and fell into two camps. One side centered on economic possibilities, such as job creation and municipal tax revenues. A contrary viewpoint focused on environmental concerns.
River Of Shame
Have you visited the River District? You may not want to return.
The River District runs off Richards Boulevard, north of the Downtown Railyards. Loaves & Fishes, renowned for charitable work with unhoused people, calls the district home.
But for many, the River District is another kind of home. One square mile hosts 26% of the county’s homeless population and 60% of its homeless service providers. Not surprisingly, this concentration leaves the neighborhood a mess.
Must-Do List
New City Manager Maraskeshia Smith inherits a budget with a structural deficit caused by nine bosses who regularly outspend their checking account. That’s how the City Council operates.
Can Smith do a better job than the former city manager, Howard Chan?
“I will lead with integrity, transparency and a commitment to innovation, fostering a culture that embraces forward-thinking solutions,” she says.
