Calistoga Kevin
My Platform
Housing
Increased workforce housing that is affordable across income levels should be a priority within the limits of water and space. We can do better while maintaining the small town character of Calistoga. If we can reduce out of town commuters to Calistoga by just 10 or 15% we will all notice reduced traffic and pollution in Calistoga. My own neighborhood, the Palisades Sub-Division, is a great example of successful housing. It was a mixture of market value and subsidized family homes for people living and working in Calistoga. Today we are a diverse neighborhood of Calistogans, most working here. The concept of mixed housing at rates affordable to many members of our community is still viable. To ensure new housing supports our workforce, the city will have to follow a clear path of funding, regulation, zoning, and compliance with the law.
The Fairgrounds
As mayor I will support a comprehensive plan for the fairgrounds that reflects the priorities from the community survey, to the extent that it is both physically and fiscally feasible. I also believe it is important to protect the fairgrounds assets such as the grandstands and the buildings that can be rehabilitated.
Business
We need to support our business community. The Transient Occupancy Tax and tourist related income provide the means to improve the quality of life of all Calistogans and maintain our quality of life. In the fiercely competitive tourist industry we need to broaden our appeal to visitors beyond wine to the well-being and recreational aspects of our great town. With the coming transfer of control of our downtown sidewalks from CalTrans to our city we need to prepare now for the enhancement of downtown is ways that support our businesses and maintain our small town ambience for residents and visitors alike.
Calistoga Character
We all appreciate the small town character of Calistoga To me that means maintaining a place where families can thrive.. It is a place where neighbors support each other and friendly "Hellos" are common. It is a place where we have our differences but we live and work together sharing our civic pride and responsibility. It is a place where many of us our able to live and work in town. It is a place where civic organizations contribute to the health of the community. It is a place adequately funded to maintain our home town police and fire departments. It is Calistoga.
Infrastructure
Upgrading Calistoga roads must remain a priority, within our fiscal capacity. As roads are repaved it is a great opportunity to upgrade our ancient water and sewer pipes. Calistoga should always look toward future infrastructure needs. Maintenance and the need for upgrades are ever present. We must make intelligent investments that will yield the best return down the road. We should do what we can now so there will not be insurmountable steps later.