With recent annexations in Cazenovia fueling debate over Cazenovia's growth strategy (or lack thereof), it will be interesting to see whether the June 21 election for Village Trustee (between incumbent Bob Frazee and challenger Kurt Wheeler) will lead to more public debate over the sometimes conflicting goals of preservation and growth.
As a person who enjoys the scenic vistas, historic architecture, and an active but unique commercial environment, I am hopeful that the debate will occur and that Cazenovians will decide upon a course of carefully considered growth that preserves what is unique about our community while accepting that change is inevitable.
I wrote the following letter to the editor of the Cazenovia Republican to express my thoughts on development and the election; it was not published this week so I thought I'd add it here.
To the Editor:Posted by jimj at June 1, 2005 09:12 AM | TrackBack
I strongly support Kurt Wheeler's candidacy for Cazenovia Village Trustee. Even before he announced his candidacy, I have noticed Kurt's commitment to the Cazenovia community through his leadership of Project Cafe and his teaching at Cazenovia High School.
Letters in last week's Republican asked whether Cazenovia is truly at a "crossroads" and if so, whether Kurt Wheeler is the man to help choose the path we'll all travel. My answer to both questions is a resounding "yes". Cazenovia is at a crossroads as a community. I came here almost nine years ago to live and build a family, after growing up in another part of upstate and spending time in both Albany and Manlius. Cazenovia is unique in upstate New York - and perhaps the entire Northeast - in its appealing mix of historic charm, well-defined downtown and village characters, and a clean and rural environment - thus far unmarred by the sprawl and sameness that characterize other suburban areas. The unique beauty and character cause long-time residents, recent transplants, and visitors alike to become emotionally attached to our treasured place. Some turn passion into action through participation in community groups dedicated to preserving what's beautiful about Cazenovia so that we, and our children and grandchildren, may continue to enjoy it as we do.
Kurt Wheeler understands that Cazenovia is a unique treasure, and he has pledged to leverage the hard work of the citizens of Cazenovia when considering growth. As housing developments have already begun to spring up in and around Cazenovia village, and more land is annexed, development pressures are increasing. Route 92 construction is sprawling from Manlius through Oran. With the eastern suburbs now on our doorstep, decisions we make now will determine whether Cazenovia becomes another generic suburb or whether it continues to be a place of unique and complex character. I know Kurt Wheeler understands and appreciates what makes Cazenovia special for all of us, and that he wants to make sure those that follow us here will experience it, too.
Please remember that YOU can make a difference on Tuesday June 21 by going to the polls to elect Kurt Wheeler.
Jim Jurista
Cazenovia