It's time for a Progressive City Council

By Joanne Wile

It's time for a progressive majority on the City Council that shares a vision for open space on the shoreline and preserving Albany's special character.

Our shoreline's current zoning does not allow a Racino, Casino, or mall. I emphatically oppose any change to the zoning that would permit Magna to build a waterfront Racino complex. Such development would destroy Albany's small town character and change our community forever. It would also cut the Eastshore State Park virtually in two.

The community spent the last year urging the City Council to listen to the majority of Albany residents who did not want a shopping mall at the waterfront and who wanted a plan for the shoreline that provided for maximum park and open space while meeting Albany's current and future revenue needs.

There are those who have opposed a waterfront planning process and who believe that a shoreline mall is a good use of the waterfront. I strongly disagree. Albany should guide its own destiny not Rick Caruso or Magna Entertainment.

I worked actively to qualify the Albany Shoreline Protection Initiative for the November ballot. When Magna sued to keep the initiative off the ballot (winning on a technicality), it became clear that it was a time for new leadership on the City Council.

It's time for a progressive majority on the City Council that shares a vision for open space on the shoreline and preserving Albany's special character.

Join with me to move us forward. I ask for your support on November 7th.