I watched a Nevada City Council meeting on TV this week. It went something like this scene out of the Wizard of Oz, as it often does. We’ve experienced some good (new sidewalks and sewer lines, for example) but also some “room for improvement” (handling neighbors’ valid concerns about a “granny unit” in our neighborhood, ongoing transparency in decision-making, community policing and often an attitude that is reflected in the video clip).
This week I was encouraged with the new Council member, Erin Minett, who asked thoughtful questions and made a cogent comment about the need for much better communication between City Hall and its residents. This is what Erin heard as she walked door to door and met with residents.
I suspect residents would like to see some change too, or Erin wouldn’t have been elected. The same goes for Heidi Hall, when she was elected Supervisor of District 1.
Nevada City is at a crossroads (a flat to declining and aging population, and continued rising costs, including pension obligations), and it will require Council leadership and staff execution to keep the town independent, not to mention growing.
I suspect this is what residents are thinking about, so I hope the Council and staff are thinking about it too. I’m going to remain optimistic that it’s also on their minds.
Jeff Pelline's Sierra Foothills Report 