After the Coronado Times Candidate Forum, Derik took some time to answer additional questions about his candidacy.
- One of the most compelling comments you made at the Coronado Times Forum was that you wanted to see CTID’s (Coronado Tourism and Improvement District) commitment to not advertise locally in writing. Tell me some more about that comment. What is your stand on the CTID and why do you think it is necessary to get their statement in writing? Â
Aggressive advertising has hurt Coronado’s quality of life. We have crowds with nowhere to park, congested streets, and locals who cannot enjoy the town they live in. The CTID has agreed to stop all local advertising, but this is far too serious an issue to just make a statement. The CTID mission statement should be updated, the bylaws should clarify advertising, and the special service agreement with the City should also address how we advertise. In recent years, we covered San Diego County and beyond with too much advertising and it has caused terrible unrest among the community. We need to take extreme precaution in all advertising going forward.
- Do you see yourself as a residents first candidate? If yes, why do you think we need this kind of candidate right now? What motivated you to run?
Absolutely. I see two ways of looking at how we value Coronado. Either we bulldoze all we can to maximize property tax revenue, or it’s our heritage that we see giving long term net worth to the community. I see the people and families of Coronado giving us a value that you cannot put a price tag on. We need full time residents and families living in Coronado and not year round vacation rentals. Coronado needs a candidate who wants to protect that sense of community before generating more property tax revenue. I was motivated to run entirely because of what I hear every day from residents. It was the sadness and frustration of locals that made my decision. If I had to sum it up, it was the people who walked into my store and told me that they had enough and wanted to move. If locals are considering leaving we are in trouble. That is what motivated me.
- You have the unique perspective of being a resident and a manager of a business here in town. How does this perspective make you a stronger candidate than some of your competitors?
I don’t know if it’s my personality, where the business is located, or simply what people like to talk about. All I know is, that all day, every day I hear exactly how residents feel about our community. When it comes to knowing the pulse of Coronado and residents’ feelings, I get updated every fifteen minutes.
- I’m assuming this is your first time running for elected office. What have you learned about the process? What have you liked about it? What has surprised you? or you didn’t anticipate?
It’s a tremendously rewarding process and I’m enjoying every minute of it. It forces you to put a lot of thought into all the issues and teaches you to remain objective on the big picture. I have enjoyed getting to know more people than ever before and that especially includes getting to know the other candidates as well. I didn’t anticipate caring more about Coronado than I already did, but now I do.
- What have you learned about your fellow residents?
It’s quite possible that this is the greatest place on planet earth. Coronado locals are the best of the best. Everyone does know everyone and that makes it very special. The only thing I don’t like is when I hear residents are upset. Locals are beyond passionate about their homeland. I love that.
- Being president of the Lion’s Club shows a commitment to the Coronado Community, as does your candidacy. Where did you learn the importance of civic responsibility? Did you grow up with it, or is it something you developed within yourself?
I grew up in the Crown City of Indiana and protecting the local community kept the town strong. My parents were very compassionate people and put others before themselves. When we knew someone was having a hard time we would invite them to stay at our house until they got back on their feet. My mom worked hours on end but still devoted her free time to volunteer in the community. They were incredible role models and where I learned about giving back. I enjoy making others smile and I think if we could all volunteer more, we would make this community and whole world a better place.
- Anything else you want Coronado Times readers to know?
Yes. If there is something that is important to you about Coronado, I want to know. If you have an idea that could enhance Coronado’s quality of life in the years to come, I really want to know. I will do all I can to protect Coronado’s future. Thank you.
