Democracy for Vancouver

The Outsider
A Newsletter for the Overburdened Taxpayers of Vancouver Washington
September 25, 2007

Another Property Giveaway

Watching the CVTV City Council meeting last night with the “D” street giveaway was an amazing process to observe. Some items of interest were the fact that the assessed value of the street was based on the same assessed value per square foot of the old police property and we all know what a loss that was to the taxpayer. The true value of this giveaway is about 1 million dollars. The developer will pay $240,000 minus the $75,000 the city will provide for landscaping of his property for a grand total price of $165,000 for a million dollar value piece of property. The net loss to the real owners of the property, the taxpayer is $835,000.

So what standing does the taxpayer have in the city? From the view in my pew, we have none. You as owner, taxpayer of the property have to rely on politicians who take money from the developers in the form of campaign contributions and then claim selective amnesia when they make these “difficult decisions” on your behalf. At least three should have excused themselves but didn’t. This is definitely not a case of proven leadership but a case of payback. Who do they think they are kidding?

The Public Disclosure Commission website www.pdc.wa.gov/servlet/ContServlet will provide information for council member’s campaign contributions. It will be an eye opener for all concerned citizens.

Why doesn’t the city have a comprehensive plan in place when selling the people’s property? It is paid for by the taxpayer and we want the full value for the property. Should not the taxpayer have the same or greater rights than that of the favored downtown developers?

After watching this fiasco last night, my belief is stronger than ever that Vancouver needs a change downtown. Because they say it’s good for you don’t cut it anymore. We all work hard for our money and pay taxes. Shouldn’t we be getting full value from the people that represent us? Please contact them to indicate your displeasure on this property giveaway. It is time to stop this practice. We need a government that represents us not developers.

Charlie Stemper Candidate for City Council Position #5 City of Vancouver USA