As one of the larger neighborhood mayoral forums — and one hosted by arguably the most successful neighborhood association — the WGNA forum also brought significant focus to issues that we face in Willow Glen.

Property rights, neighborhood cohesiveness, and monster homes were all discussed by the candidates, most of whom have straight-forward opinions on zoning, plannings, and growth.

Chuck Reed asserted that all of the City’s neighborhood associations are under-utilized as a resource for city planners and decision-makers, and he wants to review the current rules regulating expansions and remodels.

David Pandori lamented the frequent changes that the current council makes to the City’s Master Plan; he’d limit to once per year, and he proposed using technology (like 3D modeling) more effectively for planning.

Michael Mulcahy will seek greater consistency in the planning/review process.

David Cortese drew from his success developing consense for growth in his Evergreen district, and repeatedly pledged to avoid “done deal syndrome.”

Cindy Chavez praised community froups from the downtown area, including an array of partnerships, associations, and conservationists. She also wants to improve the notification process prior to planning approvals.

For more perspective on the debate, the WG Resident published its debate coverage in the May 17 edition.