Journal
endorses measure
Vote YES on Buellton’s Measure E, the citizens’ Urban
Growth Boundary initiative.
The Santa Ynez Valley Journal heartily supports this
citizen-led effort that allows the residents to decide when Buellton should
grow beyond its current city limits.
Measure E, the Buellton Urban Growth Boundary initiative,
would require a majority vote of the citizens before the city can change the
city limits. The General Plan is the
city’s blueprint for growth. It has determined that the existing city limits
meet Buellton’s needs through 2025.
Measure E says that if the city wants to change that part
of the General Plan, the citizens have a decisive role to play.
Measure E would ensure that proposals to grow outward are
debated in an open forum and citizens have a major voice in determining the
character of their community.
More than two dozen California cities have adopted
voter-approved Urban Growth Boundaries (UGBs) like Measure E. These UGBs have
reduced urban sprawl into agricultural lands and focused development within
city boundaries. They encourage downtown redevelopment and more
pedestrian-friendly communities. They also help maintain property values and
keep municipal costs lower than they otherwise would be.
Third District Supervisor candidate Steve Pappas has
called Measure E “a welcomed demonstration of true democracy.” Doreen Farr,
another 3rd District Supervisor candidate, also supports the initiative. Farr
has stated that she supports this effort “to keep the small-town character of
the city.” All six of the candidates running for the two open seats on the
Buellton City Council have expressed support for Measure E. Buellton voters are
to be commended for stepping up to take an active role in determining their
city’s future.
The Journal endorses Measure E.