Solvang, CA — Following last night’s League of Women Voters Mayoral Candidate Forum, it has become painfully clear that the future of Solvang hangs in the balance. While candidates Dave Brown and Jamie Baker presented their views on critical issues such as water management, the Wildwood Project, and the budget, their glaring failure to address the pressing traffic and safety concerns at the intersection of Alamo Pintado and Old Mission Drive cannot be overlooked.
As a resident and concerned community member, I found their discussions inadequate and concerning. The intersection of Alamo Pintado and Old Mission Drive is not just another spot on a map; it is a vital artery for our community, and the ongoing reports of near misses and accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists demand immediate attention. Yet, when this critical issue was raised, both candidates deflected rather than engage, revealing a troubling lack of urgency in their responses.
Baker proposed a collaborative approach to development, yet he failed to articulate any actionable plan to enhance traffic safety or address the ongoing risks that residents face daily. His suggestion to “unite different parties” was more of a platitude than a solution, leaving many questions unanswered. Meanwhile, Brown’s focus on fiscal responsibility and maintaining the town’s brand did not translate into a concrete commitment to ensure the safety of our roadways.
Even more alarming is their reluctance to challenge the ongoing Builder’s Remedy project (Wildwood). Both candidates skirted around the critical topic of halting the project based on its misalignment with Solvang’s character and the glaring deficiencies in the original application. The failure to secure signatures from all underlying property owners is not a minor oversight; it is a legal requirement that cannot be ignored. This lack of attention to detail raises serious questions about the integrity of the development process in Solvang and the candidates’ commitment to upholding the law and representing the community’s interests.
Moreover, we cannot afford to ignore the implications of allowing “monster projects” to advance unchecked. Solvang’s charm and character are what make it unique; these traits must be preserved. The candidates need to present robust plans to manage growth responsibly while prioritizing community safety and preserving the essence of what makes Solvang special.
In the wake of this forum, it is essential for us as a community to demand more from our leaders. We need candidates who are not only willing to engage with complex issues but are also prepared to take decisive action. It is time to hold our potential leaders accountable for their promises and ensure they prioritize the safety and character of Solvang over mere development profits.
As we move closer to the election, let us urge Brown and Baker to address these crucial issues head-on. Our community deserves candidates who will prioritize safety, transparency, and the preservation of Solvang’s unique charm in all their decision-making processes.
Brian Carrillo: Concerned Citizen of Solvang
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS MAYORAL CANDIDATE FORUM IN SOLVANG
For more information on the Wildwood (Alamo Pindado ) development
