Local realtor, surfer, and photographer, Daron Case, saw a need for an online forum where residents of Coronado, living here and concerned with current issues, could participate in measured civil discussions about local civic issues. A place where free speech and the first amendment reigns supreme. Daron started a “secret” Facebook group (Facebook offers Public, Closed, and Secret group types), which after this article is not so secret but it still won’t show up in a search.
The reason Daron chose to make it secret is that he wants to be sure that members are vetted and current residents. Not vacationers, not people who formerly lived here and moved, not people who want to live here, but people who do live here day in and day out. People who are impacted by whatever challenges we face as a community. So far it is a place where dialogue is happening, usually in a way that is positive and helpful in finding solutions for Coronado community concerns. Many of the City Council members are in the group and may engage in conversation if tagged. Thus far the resident vetting seems to have kept the tone civil. Perhaps it has to do with knowing that you may see the person with whom you’re engaging at the grocery store or school pick up. It’s not as easy to hide behind a screen when all members know the other members live here.
Daron’s hope is that this online community, Coronado Electorate, will grow into a cohesive community of people who want the best for everyone. Within the group posts you will also find shared news articles pertinent to Coronado from local and national news outlets, civic conversations, things to do and upcoming activities, walkabout maps and other Coronado information.
Daron is also part of “Citizens Against Sewage” and spends a great deal of time doing everything he can to protect our beaches and water in Coronado. He grew up in Coronado and, after moving away for college, eventually came back about five years ago to raise his family in their forever community of the Coronado Cays.
In order to get in on the conversation in Coronado Electorate, you can reach out to Daron through Facebook by sending him a friend request or private message, or you can ask a friend to add you. The expansion of the group is through word of mouth. Daron will vet you to be sure you live here and then you may be added to the group. What I see when I look at the posts in the group is that it’s filled with informative content. I don’t see people bickering back and forth or things for sale. It’s a place to truly discuss relevant issues specific to Coronado and the areas that surround and impact our island and its residents.
