We must recreate trust in our community. We must provide a process where all are a part of a forum in a participatory democracy
Too many citizens are feeling they are a part of an "us" or a "them" in terms of decisions being made which impact our community for future generations. A process needs to be created so that differing perspectives can be heard free of ridicule and attack. Citizen's questions should be answered, their voices heard, their wishes followed. A young couple should not wait nearly three years to be permitted to make an addition to their home. The permit process should not cost thousands of dollars. Business should not be delayed for years, waiting for approval of, al fresco dining. Large outside corporations should not be given an e-ticket to ride through the same permit process, at the front of the line, seemingly unchecked. The same process should apply to all; large and small. The governance team must be credible and do what they say they are going to do. It is not satisfactory to say: "that developer will not be asked back..." after the damage has been done. There needs to be an inclusive process that represents the interests of Cotati's citizens. We choose to live here, our community should reflect our values.
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