Guest Editorial
Working Towards a Cooperative Solution
by
Chip Davis
The citizens of the Greater Sedona Area and the Verde Valley are truly blessed.
We live in an area of such natural beauty that people worldwide identify as a vacation destination. Over the last few months, I have met many of our citizens and have found a desire, common to all, to find solutions not only for our traffic problems but to promote the general welfare of the greater community. In the coming weeks I look forward to a continuing dialogue with citizens of every viewpoint. I only ask that opinions be supported by the facts and that we keep the greater good in mind as we move together toward a solution. It is important for all to realize that as Americans we have a right to voice our opinions. My position could, when considered from a personal or community viewpoint, have a negative or positive effect on individuals. It is imperative that the community listen to all sides of this issue and the factual information.
I have recommended a plan for development of a roadway that will impact some neighborhoods. Some Forest Service land is proposed for use as a roadway. Citizens will all have various reasons for and against the new West Airport Mesa alternate. The important point to remember is that the citizen whose neighborhood is being impacted is not a 'NIMBY" not in my backyard person. He or she is the same neighbor and friend who cares about the general welfare of this community. Their loss could be the quality of life which they have been enjoying or value to their land. The second may be a person who for years has worked to make sure our forest lands our kept clean and preserved for the future enjoyment of others. This person is not a "tree hugger" but a citizen who has a commitment to our environment.
In order for a far reaching community project such as this to be successful we must all be willing to listen and understand the distress and ideas of others. We must develop a solution for the community at large through a cooperative approach that respects the rights of citizens to question governmental action. We should not label each other or misrepresent facts. This type of action only further polarizes a community and --- as we've seen --- delays the implementation of any solution. A common need has been identified. Let us together develop a Cooperative Solution.
Thank you for taking the time to consider my proposal. It represents many, many hours invested by myself, staff in many departments, citizens and the proposed future partnering government agencies.
If you know of any information that we have overlooked or missed, please let us know.
I personally believe that the positives far outweigh the negatives with the new proposal, based upon the information that has been available to me.
While I don't feel Yavapai County taxpayers should totally fund the entire project, I am willing to take the lead in the coordination and implementation of the project. I am willing to take our show "on the road" to help lobby the other boards and councils to get the project moving.
The future looks exciting!
Reprinted by Permission of the Sedona Spectrum
May 1997