City Council Candidates, from left to right, Angela Alvarez, Carrie Downey, and Bill Sandke
Angela Alvarez, Carrie Downey, and Bill Sandke, the candidates for the two City Council seats that will be decided in this November’s election, shared their vision for Coronado and thoughts about issues facing the city at a candidate’s forum sponsored by the Coronado Republican Women on Saturday, September 27.
The audience of approximately 40 residents heard the candidate’s opinions on parking, traffic, residential development, code enforcement, city finances, issues specific to the Cays and Shores, and other topics. The candidates knew the topics in advance of the meeting but were not told the specific questions that they would be asked. In the forum they were asked to respond in one or two minutes to specific questions. They were also asked to indicate their agreement or disagreement with specific statements. These statements are included in the matrices below. A “green” response indicates agreement with the statement and a “red” response indicates disagreement. The topics addressed in the forum were derived from City Council agenda, letters to the editor of the Coronado Eagle/Journal, and postings on eCoronado.com.
In her opening statement Alvarez stated that she is a former business owner and office manager. She has two children who attend Coronado schools. She complimented the city’s schools and police department.
Candidate Alvarez and forum attendee
Downey described how she has previously served two terms on the City Council and was involved in the decisions to use Community Development Agency funding to construct the city’s newest school buildings. As the mother of three daughters and two step-sons, she wants Coronado to be a “child friendly” community that is a safe environment for pedestrians and cyclists.
Sandke stated that he is a 1982 graduate of Coronado High School and UCLA. He grew up in Coronado and has been involved in numerous community activities. He said that he has considered running for the City Council on several occasions in the past and feels that this is the right time for him to run. In his words, he “feels the election has chosen him” and that he “may be the right candidate at the right time.” He stated that he wants to preserve the community and is concerned about the number of cars in town and overbuilding.
Parking
The candidates were asked to respond to the question “What is your opinion of the current parking situation in Coronado?”
Downey said that the city does not have a parking problem but rather the perception of a parking problem. She went on to say that both employees and residents often tie up parking spaces for more than the legal two hour limit. She feels that valet parking is an approach to move cars to other locations thereby freeing parking spaces. She described how the hospital is exploring the possibility of building a parking garage, which would give its employees a place to park other than the surrounding streets. She also feels that the free shuttle should run year around rather than only during the summer. Its cost could be shared by the city and the Coronado Tourism Improvement District.
Sandke disagreed and feels that the city does have a parking problem. He stated that the number of available parking places is finite. He noted that the construction of an underground parking structure has been considered in the past. He further stated that the city should raise the rates on the parking meters and expand the use of smart meters to encourage turnover of the available spaces. He also encouraged the use of bicycles and walking in lieu of driving. Another option he mentioned was adding a second deck of parking to the Walgreen lot and the lot behind the Vons supermarket. He would consider adding parking on Isabella Avenue, but only on a seasonal basis. Finally, he questioned whether it was a good business decision by the Ferry Landing to charge for parking.
Alvarez feels that the use of bicycles should be encouraged including the possibility of implementing a bike sharing program similar to those that have been implemented in other cities. She said that she is not sure that raising the rates on parking meters would solve the problem. She also said that a parking structure would detract from the appearance of the city.
Green: Agree
Red: Disagree
Traffic
The question for the candidates on traffic was “What do you see as the problem of traffic congestion/road safety and what should be the focus of the city’s action in response to citizens’ concerns?” The recent National Citizen Survey completed by Coronado residents found that traffic congestion/road safety is the number one concern that 62% of the respondents would like the city to address in the next year.
Alvarez stated that traffic safety is an issue but is not as bad as it is in other cities. She went on to say that she has done a “ride along” with the police and feels that the department is doing a good job of traffic enforcement. She also supports a close working relationship with Caltrans.
Downey said that a large part of the solution would be the greater use of carpools by Navy personnel and employees. She also feels greater efforts should be made to enforce the 25 mph speed limit on Third and Fourth Streets. On the subject of the potential relinquishment of Third and Fourth Streets and Orange Avenue by Caltrans to the city, she is concerned about the potential cost to the city. Further, it may not be possible for the city to improve the situation more than what Caltrans is able to do because of the applicable regulations.
Sandke said that Coronado is not another city. He went on to describe the cones that are being placed on A Avenue to discourage drivers from making left turns onto A Avenue from Third Street in accordance with the restrictions on these turns during the peak rush hour periods. He also mentioned the on-going Third and Fourth Streets Study and the potential for an incremental implementation of measures, from speed table to traffic signals, to improve the traffic on these streets. He also supports running the free shuttle year around and being more forceful in dealing with the Navy on traffic issues. He feels that relinquishment should be considered and he is not prepared to take anything “off the table.”
Residential Development
The candidates were asked to respond to three questions regarding this topic. The first question was, “What is your opinion of current residential development?” Sandke stated that there is too much development but that it is all being done pursuant to the applicable rules. He went on to say that if the residents believe that the development is too dense, then they will need to change the zoning regulations. Alvarez stated that there should not be overdevelopment in order to preserve the community. Downey stated that she voted three times, while she was on the council, to reduce the sizes of houses. She went on to say that she would prohibit tandem parking since at most only one spot is used for parking and the other is used for storage. She feels that side yard setbacks should also be further reviewed.
Candidate Downey and forum attendee
The second question was, “How should the City balance property rights with neighbors losing air, light, and privacy, if at all?” Alvarez stated that the City should not encroach on the rights of residents. Downey again mentioned side yard setbacks and noted that often historic properties have “zero” setback. When these properties are renovated, to include the addition of a second story, it further robs neighbors of light. The question is whether to allow these properties to be altered through the addition of a second story. Sandke felt that it is an issue of respect for the people who live in proximity to you. Neighbors should attempt to come to a mutual understanding of what is equitable regarding their respective rights.
The third question was, “The City of Coronado has an historic designation process that sometimes results in properties being involuntarily designated historic, which limits what the homeowner can change and subsequently affects the property’s value. What is your stance on the historic designation process?”
Downey stated that as a council member she approved requests for historic preservation and sought to increase application of the Mills Act. At the same time she voted against the forced historic designation of a property. Sandke agreed with Downey and voiced his support for the Mills Act. He also feels that a property should not be designated involuntarily. Alvarez recommended relying on the applicable codes and supports preserving the existing image of Coronado.
Regarding residential development Sandke added that it is important to maintain variety in the city’s residences and that is why he would oppose applying a design review process to residential structures. Alvarez agreed saying that everyone should have the right to build a house the way they like. Downey also agreed that residences should not be subjected to a design review process. She would be concerned that it would stifle diversity in what was built and could delay the permitting and approval process. (Editorial note: Single-family residences are not presently subject to design review.)
Code Enforcement
The question put to the candidates was, “What is your position on proactively or reactively enforcing municipal codes?” Alvarez noted that she works in code enforcement and believes that codes should be proactively enforced. Safety issues are particularly important, such as prohibiting bike riding on sidewalks. Also, prohibitions of fires on the beach and illegal vacation rentals should be proactively enforced.
Downey stated that historically the city has not been proactive but rather reacts when there is a complaint by a resident. She is concerned about the cost and time of proactive enforcement and that resources should be used wisely. However, safety violations should be enforced, in particular, traffic violations. She agreed with Alvarez concerning the proactive enforcement of prohibitions against bicycles on sidewalks but added that the city needs to be clearer about where riding on the sidewalks is prohibited.
Sandke stated his preference for reactive rather than proactive enforcement. Regarding bicycle riding on the sidewalks in the downtown area, he recommended that in July and August it may be appropriate for a police senior volunteer to help with enforcement. He also believes it is important to proactively enforce regulations regarding the use of the beach, which is one of the city’s premier attractions, and that prohibitions against illegal vacation rentals should be proactively enforced.
City Finances
The candidates were asked two questions regarding the city’s finances. The first was, “What investments in the community, or cuts to specific services, would you propose?” Sandke supports maintenance of the beach and construction of the new senior center. He also believes more should be spent on activities for the city’s seniors. He did not identify any potential savings or cuts and believes that the city’s income is well spent. He added that an indicator of how well the city staff and council have performed is the increase in the value of the city’s real estate. Alvarez said that she would be open to new ideas for more activities for investment by the city and is not sure there is anything that should be cut. She went on to say that she has reviewed the city’s finances and feels the city’s resources have been well invested. Downey added that the city is well funded and its resources have been wisely spent. She added that the city needs to make sure that it is adequately funding the maintenance of its facilities and setting aside the funds that will eventually be required to replace these facilities.
The second question posed was, “Are there any projects, in your opinion, that would warrant consideration of a parcel tax or similar increase in property tax?” Alvarez could not identify any specific project that would warrant a parcel tax or an increase in property taxes. Downey was more emphatic that there are no projects that would warrant an increase in property taxes. Further, a parcel tax would need to be approved by the voters. Sandke also stated that he could not think of a project that would warrant an increase in property taxes.
Cays and Shores
The candidates were asked, “What are some issues important to the Cays and Shores, and how will you, if elected, represent the interests of residents in those communities?” Sandke stated that issues facing the Cays include the Navy’s proposed coastal campus; berm replacement, which will be undertaken by the city; and dredging, which is being discussed with the Port Authority. He also mentioned the Cays’ entrance project that will improve the safety of motorists and cyclists. Regarding the Shores, the new restroom should solve a long-standing problem. Alvarez did not cite any specific issues but noted that the Cays and Shores are both valuable parts of the community. Downey added that she was an advocate for the portable bathroom at the Shores, which based on resident input, is the perfect solution to the issue. She went on to say how important resident input has been to the design of the improvements to the entrance to the Cays.
Next the candidates were asked to respond to four additional questions. The first question was, “What is your vision for Coronado? For example, in 20 years, for what do you want it to be known?” Alvarez stated that her hope is that it will not be much different than it is now and that the focus should be on maintaining the quality of life in Coronado. Downey said her vision is to keep Coronado as it is but “greener.” She also stated that the city needs to address the rising sea level and to take steps to protect its facilities, many of which are located close to sea level. She also believes that the city should work with the Navy to encourage carpools. Bike sharing and other efforts to get people out of cars should also be important. Sandke offered the story of “Brutus.” He explained that about 35 years ago a resident had a pet cougar which he would take for walks. When the city objected, residents responded with an outpouring of support to “save Brutus.” Sandke went on to say he recently experienced the same level of community involvement regarding the removal of several eucalyptus trees in the 100 block of E Avenue. He cited these as examples of the community spirit that he would want to maintain in the future.
Candidate Sandke and forum attendee
The next question was, “What specific actions should the city council take to ensure that the Navy presence, in general, and the proposed Navy base expansion, specifically, does not negatively affect Coronado?” Downey responded that she has personally responded to the Navy’s Environmental Impact Statement for its proposed coastal campus. She stated that while the city cannot stop the Navy, it can compel it to live within the city’s rules. The city should encourage the use of carpools by Navy personnel, seek financial support from the Navy for the shuttle and encourage its use by Navy personnel, and ask the Navy to better police the actions of its personnel. Sandke said that the city needs to be prepared to go “toe to toe” with the Navy to safeguard the interests of the city. Alvarez noted that the Navy Is part of the community and that the proposed coastal campus will have more impact on Imperial Beach than Coronado.
The third question was, “Many residents voice concern about the transition of Coronado from a middle class neighborhood to a resort community—what actions would you take, if any, to mitigate some of the negative consequences of this transition?” Sandke said that this is a tough question. He said that all residents need to be part of the community but this is difficult if you are only a part-time resident. He went on to say we need to make part-time residents feel welcome and include them in the city’s activities. Alvarez had a somewhat different perspective on the question. She stated that Coronado was founded as a resort and that she likes the idea of living in a resort town. Downey returned to the subject of part-time residents and agreed with Sandke that it is important to make them feel more involved in the community.
The final question was, “What actions should the city take to balance the rights of the homeless and the concerns of the residents?” Alvarez noted that the City of San Diego has a substantial problem with homelessness and makes an effort to provide them with a place to sleep. She feels that Coronado should make resources available to the homeless. Downey said that we cannot simply move them from one location to another in town and that we need to figure out where we want them to go. What we cannot become is a magnet for the homeless. Sandke agreed that Coronado should not become a magnet for the homeless. He said that San Diego has programs for the homeless and Coronado should seek their expertise on how to address the issue. However, his compassion is being tested.
Following these questions, the candidates offered their concluding remarks. Downey noted her service as a naval officer, prior membership on the city council, and her continued contributions to Coronado. She went on to say that she wants to continue to serve the city and would be honored to be elected to the city council. Sandke reiterated his belief that this “election has chosen me.” He stated his experience in the community where he was raised and is a business owner. Alvarez said that she has spent many hours as a volunteer and that her financial management experience would be an asset to the council.
At this point the forum was opened up to questions from the audience. The first question concerned the recently defeated school bond initiative and whether the candidates would support a similar bond initiative in the future. Alvarez stated that she wants the best for the schools but would want to assess the impact on the community and that in any event the residents would vote on the bond initiative.
Downey stated her support for efforts by the city council to fund activities such as counselors, thereby saving the schools from having to make these expenditures. Hopefully through these efforts it would not be necessary for the schools to seek additional funding via a bond initiative. Sandke noted that the defeat of the bond initiative was a question of accountability and that Coronado is very conservative on spending. He stated that he is disappointed that since the bond failed two respected teachers have left the schools but there has been no reduction in the administrative staff.
The second question from the audience was a follow-up to the question of the relinquishment of Third and Fourth Streets and Orange Avenue to the city by Caltrans. Sandke repeated his view that nothing should be taken off the table and that the city should consider the costs and benefits of relinquishment. Downey repeated her concerns about the potential costs and that the benefits may not be as great as hoped. Alvarez expressed the opinion that the city should continue to work with Caltrans.
The final question from the audience concerned the perceived lack of enforcement of the speed limit on Orange Avenue. Downey expressed her belief that enforcement should be stepped up and that the speed limit for the entirety of Orange Avenue should be 25 mph. (Editorial note: Presently, the speed limit on a portion of Orange Avenue is 30 mph.) Sandke stated that his experience on Orange is exactly the opposite: the traffic is not moving. He noted that when he was on a “ride along” with a member of the police department only two tickets were written in the five traffic stops made by the officer. He concluded by saying that tourists should not be given any greater consideration than anyone else with respect to being given a ticket for a traffic violation. Alvarez agreed that there should be more enforcement.
The candidates are encouraged to clarify and amplify on their positions on the various topics addressed in the forum by posting their comments in response to this article.
Candidate Facebook pages: Angela Alvarez, Carrie Downey, and Bill Sandke.
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John Tato
Staff Writer
eCoronado.com
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