In the interest of being fully transparent, I find it necessary to disclose that I am an elected representative on the Homer City Council and serve as a council representative on the Town Square/City Hall development committee.
The following statement represents my personal opinion and is not intended to in anyway represent the sentiments of the Homer City Council, or the Town Square/City Hall Development Committee.
My personal opinion regarding the development of the Town Center is mainly supported by my belief that if we are not moving forward we are moving backward, because only when we are dead are we stagnant.
As a 35-year resident of Homer, I never cease to be amazed at the diversity of opinions in our citizenry. I have never met anyone that did not hope for their children to be able to return to Homer to raise the next generation, yet we continue to resist any change which might make us like "Anywhere, USA."
I believe that economic development can take on a variety of looks. Ours should be that of a progressive community, with high ideals and values.
I do not believe that the presence of parks with green grass and trees precludes the presence of retail outlets, service centers, offices and residential facilities.
The relocation of community services (City Hall) and the development of a Town Square are only a small step in the direction of becoming that progressive community. Homer should strive to become a working destination; a quality-of-life employment Mecca.
With the cost of construction rising on a daily basis, construction of the City Hall as quickly as possible makes economic sense.
In addition to opening the Town Center for further development, this project will mean jobs to local residents throughout the construction of the project.
While there are financing alternatives available, the opinion which appears to me to provide the least cost to the community is a bond issue. A bond issue generally represents a favorable interest rate. This option requires the support of the voters to proceed.
Alternatively, the building could be constructed by someone else and leased back to the city, which would result in a higher total cost over the life of the purchase.
This option does not require voter support.
Please, review the development information available online and become informed about this project. The future of Homer depends on its continued growth and improved employment opportunities.
Each of us should weigh the options and contribute to the future of this community by participating in the project development and by voting on March 25.
