Open letter to our elected officials:
I realize that citizens have access, although limited, to you through council meetings or requests for face time. But that involves protocols, rules and regulations, agendas and time restrictions. In other words, the process is far too formal and rigid.
All of you were elected by the people of Richmond, but outside of photo ops and attending openings and special events, we don’t see you in the community. Why haven’t all of you set aside regular times to actually go out into the community and walk around? And do so without staff. Just you. On your own.
Talk to small business owners and the general public to find out more about their concerns — what’s good, what’s bad, what they need from City Hall to make their lives better.
In other words, try some grass roots research without having it washed and vetted through city staff.
There are problems out there of which I’m sure all of you are aware. My personal concerns are in the Steveston area where many small businesses are struggling and business owners are frustrated. Between work and family life, most of these people don’t have the time to petition City Hall for anything. So, I say, be proactive and get out amongst the people.
I believe you’ll be surprised how warmly you’d be welcomed and how appreciative people would be of having even just a few minutes of your personal time in order to express their viewpoints and receive your feedback.
All politicians need to spend more time on the streets and less time in the chambers. It would benefit everyone.
Donald Grant
Steveston
