Two websites, Topix.com and GastonPolitics.com have had some interesting discussions about the Belmont City Council elections.
Many of the same commentary that has been found here, just repeated across the different blog sites. These are both in forum style and are in real-time whereas, this site has screened responses (called, moderation) according to the “rules of civility” found on another page here.
To review, the city council election has three incumbents and 5 challenging candidates for 3 slots on council. This is a 4-year position. The new council will be sworn in at the December meeting of the City Council.
How this election impacts the citizens of Belmont:
- Planning & Zoning concerns are on the table with a need for teeth in the regulations and ordinances
- Strategic Growth Planning is crucial to a patterned response to the needs of the existing community, which includes roads, water, utilities, etc.
- Quality of Life issues such as parks, workforce housing, and recreation are focal points
- The other issues that always present themselves, such as jobs, taxes, etc.
The Belmont Banner published a special on-line page, which surprised us here on the Front Porch. The BannerNews website must be in development stages… anyway, we are glad that this page was set up to be viewed by the public. Please review that page as well.
Encourage our neighbors and friends to get out on Tuesday to vote. With the paving project going on along Central Avenue, some people may be discouraged by the traffic issues in the morning or later in the day. Plan out your Tuesday to take time to vote.
Pictures of the Challenger Candidates:
Pictures of the Incumbents standing for Reelection:
YOUR CHOICE – YOUR FUTURE
The Belmont Front Porch 
You’ve run a good campaign, Richard. My best to you!
Thank you all for your messages of support over the last several months. I appreciate everyone’s feedback throughout this campaign. I have met so many wonderful people along the way who have shared their views and hopes for Belmont’s future. I believe that together the City Council and all of Belmont’s citizens can make a difference.
If I am elected to City Council, I will to continue to use forums like this to gain your views, feedback and suggestions. I believe this is a great way to collaborate when we can’t all be in the same room. I have found the feedback and questions/answers insightful, enlightening and passionate. The people who have joined in the forum are very interested and concerned about what happens in Belmont both now and for the future. I commend how the forum participants have taken the time and effort to be a part of this venue and share their views and be the best informed voters possible. Thank you all for your feedback and questions.
Please remember to vote on November 6, 2007. Every vote counts and does make a difference, see you at the poll! Good luck to all of the candidates.
Best regards,
Richard Turner / Candidate Belmont City Council.