Those Damned Greedy Developers

I've been taken to task for using the pejorative term 'greedy developer' in the context of Healdsburg's conversation about limiting new hotels downtown. After some reflection, I have to admit that this is a propagandist's ploy and an over-generalization and I should have avoided it. Nonetheless, greed is very much at play in the future of Healdsburg.

By virtue of their wealth, some individuals will have a much stronger say in what our town looks like down the road than most of us will. There is, of course, a philosophical divide about the role of government; in town, nationally and elsewhere. Some believe the government should primarily serve to open and support the influence of entrepreneurs (sometimes regardless of their size). They want hands off of business so that the wealth expanding magic of free enterprise can do its work. On the other hand, many count on government to represent the majority of citizens who do not have the financial means to directly influence the direction our world is headed in. Obviously, this second vision of what government stands for is more compelling to me personally.

I believe that developments and growth can occur for the benefit of everyone and in those cases, they should be encouraged, but I think our City Council has an important responsibility to safeguard us against the opposite. It should not come as a shock to you to know that there are people who are looking to add a downtown Healdsburg property to their portfolio of trophy investments. They care little about the livability, the openness, and usefulness of our town's downtown to its residents. They have a different vision of what our town's character and appeal is, for tourists and locals alike.

I am not trying to paint this picture to force people's hand politically with fear. We all have evidence that this is a trustworthy depiction of the world we live in. Some developers of this type have already had their hand in what Healdsburg has become. And some are standing by, waiting to see what doors are left open for them as Healdsburg's citizens petition the City Council to forge a balance between tourist and local interests.