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 There
are numerous and often-contradictory forces at work in our community.
They are the result not of complicated people, but rather complex
issues. When examined closely, one realizes that these issues are more
of a competing nature than they are complex. As a new community
council member, the new kid on the block, I have both the disadvantage
and advantage of seeing these issues from a fresh perspective.
GROWTH & DENSITY
This is the age-old issue facing every community, every lucky
community that is. It is the type of problem a community wants to
have, for its opposite is economic decline, leading to a shrinking tax
base and reduced public services. Yet, our Doral community shudders at
the thought of an explosive and alarming pattern of growth that
fosters memories of Kendall and its everlasting traffic jams. Our
residents hope for the right balance of single and multi-family
dwellings.
BUSINESS NUISANCES AND QUALITY OF LIFE
The economic interests of the few must not interfere with the quality
of life of the many. Just as well, the economic interest and
individual rights of every one must be respected and defended.
For all apparent and practical purposes, blasting will
not disappear. The mining industry has the legal right and individual
determination to pursue its business interests. The same can be said
of airplane noise pollution and the garbage nose pollution. They are
unwanted and permanently attached fixtures to our community. We also
recognize and appreciate the economic contribution that these
industries make.
The solution can be found in a working compromise that
invites and entices these entities to become better corporate
citizens. Countless examples exist of companies that have happily
married their corporate goals with the community’s vision. We must
pursue this course of action above all others.
VISION OF DORAL
It is interesting and gratifying that this community would have a
clearly articulated vision. So many communities, businesses, and
individuals do not.
As I understand it, and I am still learning, this
vision shines light on the road ahead and places sensible boundaries
on our growth. It creates and strives to maintain a local, hometown
feel, without becoming a bureaucratic hindrance to future economic
growth. It seeks the right number of schools, parks and houses of
worship to adequately serve the physical and spiritual needs of our
community.
COMMUNICATION AND COMMUNITY ACTIVISM
Our greatest challenge is to find more effective avenues of reaching
and engaging the individual members of our community to participate in
our governance, setting direction and decision-making.
It is a challenge compounded by the fragmented
characteristics of Doral, a mish-mash of gated communities inhabited
by both permanent and temporary residents from different countries and
cultures. The gates in our developments separate us, as they protect
us. What unites us? It can only be our love of community and shared
vision of Doral. Yet, it must be understood and shared by all.
As we clamor to incorporate and become the city of
Doral, our ability to communicate our vision and energize our
neighbors is key. It is the key to the city that we wish to be.
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