While Hinton emphasizes her institutional knowledge and experience, some may argue that this could also mean she is more entrenched in the status quo. Newcomers like Phill and Kee might bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the council, which could be beneficial for addressing ongoing challenges such as the city's financial crisis.
Regarding finance, Hinton points to unforeseen factors like COVID-19 and the economy as reasons for the financial issues. Critics might argue that the council, including Hinton, should have been more proactive in preventing such a crisis, particularly by being more conservative with spending and more aggressive in securing long-term financial stability. The delayed realization of financial problems could suggest a lack of foresight or inadequate financial management.
Hinton supports a sales tax increase as a fair solution to the city's financial needs. However, opponents could argue that a sales tax is regressive, disproportionately affecting lower-income residents. They might suggest alternative approaches, such as improving efficiency in city operations, exploring additional revenue streams, or reconsidering the prioritization of spending before increasing the tax burden on citizens.
While Hinton highlights her leadership during the flood and fire disasters as a major achievement, some may question whether her handling of these events truly reflects strong crisis management or if the praise she attributes to herself is more about being in the right place at the right time. Critics might also wonder if her focus on these past events distracts from addressing current and future challenges.
Question: I lived in Michigan for many years and, at least back then, they allowed countries to have an income tax. Theoretically, a more progressive mechanism for raising money than sales tax.
I wonder the philosophy against such in California…?
I guess I’m not surprised and I rarely engage with negativity, but couldn’t stay quiet on this….
Instead of criticizing from the beach seat/ why don’t you run for office, spend up to 20 hours weekly, and make the tough votes (if elected) needed after fully understanding the issues for the Sebastopol community?!
No….- it’s so much easier to criticize from the sideline! Elected officials get used to it and it’s why more people do not want to take on public office.
Glad you got to have your say, but I will have to disagree with your point of views.
Thank you for taking the time to respond. I appreciate your dedication to public service and the challenges that come with it. However, I must point out that your reply, while passionate, does not directly address the specific concerns and counterarguments raised.
The questions posed were not intended to criticize for the sake of it, but rather to engage in a thoughtful dialogue about the issues facing our community. It's important for all of us—whether in office or as concerned citizens—to critically examine the decisions being made and consider whether they truly serve the best interests of Sebastopol.
By discussing these issues, we aim to ensure that all perspectives are considered and that the most effective solutions are pursued. Constructive criticism is a vital part of a healthy democratic process, and I hope we can continue this conversation in that spirit.
I think Sebastopol should STOP selling the groundwater to people in the hills. This water is the Commons. It belongs to the Laguna and all that that supports. What will happen as more and more wells go dry and then the Laguna goes dry?!? You can't in good conscience keep taking that water that supports the Laguna and all of us that live in town!
Again in response/ no need to debate or criticize in the public editorial comment forum… a kind of “tit for tat” conversation.
I said in my interview:
“Finally, at the end of the day, I think I represent a lot of Sebastopol citizens and their views. People tell me that. I listen to them, and I always take the phone calls. I speak to groups that invite me. I never say no to any organization that wants to meet with me, whether for an endorsement or for a get-to-know-you coffee meeting—I always say yes.”
I’m happy to discuss real and current community issues when asked for a meet-up…. I find in-person meetings much more productive and accept them when asked with the goal of listening and getting feedback in a positive solution based spirit.
While Hinton emphasizes her institutional knowledge and experience, some may argue that this could also mean she is more entrenched in the status quo. Newcomers like Phill and Kee might bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the council, which could be beneficial for addressing ongoing challenges such as the city's financial crisis.
Regarding finance, Hinton points to unforeseen factors like COVID-19 and the economy as reasons for the financial issues. Critics might argue that the council, including Hinton, should have been more proactive in preventing such a crisis, particularly by being more conservative with spending and more aggressive in securing long-term financial stability. The delayed realization of financial problems could suggest a lack of foresight or inadequate financial management.
Hinton supports a sales tax increase as a fair solution to the city's financial needs. However, opponents could argue that a sales tax is regressive, disproportionately affecting lower-income residents. They might suggest alternative approaches, such as improving efficiency in city operations, exploring additional revenue streams, or reconsidering the prioritization of spending before increasing the tax burden on citizens.
While Hinton highlights her leadership during the flood and fire disasters as a major achievement, some may question whether her handling of these events truly reflects strong crisis management or if the praise she attributes to herself is more about being in the right place at the right time. Critics might also wonder if her focus on these past events distracts from addressing current and future challenges.
Question: I lived in Michigan for many years and, at least back then, they allowed countries to have an income tax. Theoretically, a more progressive mechanism for raising money than sales tax.
I wonder the philosophy against such in California…?
Thanks for informing we citizens.
Kyle,
I guess I’m not surprised and I rarely engage with negativity, but couldn’t stay quiet on this….
Instead of criticizing from the beach seat/ why don’t you run for office, spend up to 20 hours weekly, and make the tough votes (if elected) needed after fully understanding the issues for the Sebastopol community?!
No….- it’s so much easier to criticize from the sideline! Elected officials get used to it and it’s why more people do not want to take on public office.
Glad you got to have your say, but I will have to disagree with your point of views.
Councilmember Hinton,
Thank you for taking the time to respond. I appreciate your dedication to public service and the challenges that come with it. However, I must point out that your reply, while passionate, does not directly address the specific concerns and counterarguments raised.
The questions posed were not intended to criticize for the sake of it, but rather to engage in a thoughtful dialogue about the issues facing our community. It's important for all of us—whether in office or as concerned citizens—to critically examine the decisions being made and consider whether they truly serve the best interests of Sebastopol.
By discussing these issues, we aim to ensure that all perspectives are considered and that the most effective solutions are pursued. Constructive criticism is a vital part of a healthy democratic process, and I hope we can continue this conversation in that spirit.
I think Sebastopol should STOP selling the groundwater to people in the hills. This water is the Commons. It belongs to the Laguna and all that that supports. What will happen as more and more wells go dry and then the Laguna goes dry?!? You can't in good conscience keep taking that water that supports the Laguna and all of us that live in town!
Kyle,
Again in response/ no need to debate or criticize in the public editorial comment forum… a kind of “tit for tat” conversation.
I said in my interview:
“Finally, at the end of the day, I think I represent a lot of Sebastopol citizens and their views. People tell me that. I listen to them, and I always take the phone calls. I speak to groups that invite me. I never say no to any organization that wants to meet with me, whether for an endorsement or for a get-to-know-you coffee meeting—I always say yes.”
I’m happy to discuss real and current community issues when asked for a meet-up…. I find in-person meetings much more productive and accept them when asked with the goal of listening and getting feedback in a positive solution based spirit.
Neysa