Vision for Sustainable Davis Economy: Chamber Writes Letter to City Council

Chamber of Commerce Director Kemble Pope sent the following note to the city council on Monday in regard to the city's possible hiring of William McDonough + Partners and the future of Davis's economy. 

Mr. Mayor & Council Members,

Please vote YES on Item 13, “Consulting Services Contract with William McDonough + Partners - Vision for Sustainable Davis Economy” at your Tuesday, July 10^th, 2012 Meeting.

There is no denying that change is in the air both locally and globally. As our planet recovers from the Great Recession, we have the opportunity now to prepare our community for future success. If our community sows the seeds of trust with collaboration, then we will soon reap the benefits in the form on an improved quality of life.

For far too long, Davis has been divided against itself along irrational political and special interest lines. We agree on much, but our past disagreements cast a dark shadow over our ability to start afresh focused on our common vision forDavis.

The vast majority of our community places great value on a vibrant downtown, superior public schools, infill densification, transportation choices and environmentally, socially and economically sustainable policies and practices.

Do we need help from the outside to move forward to realize our dreams for a better Davis with UC Davis and the business community as fully vested partners? At this point in time, I say without hesitation, “Yes!”

We have experts galore right here in our backyard, but in order to transcend the old divisions we need an honest broker with a fresh perspective. In William McDonough + Partners, we have found a globally renowned firm that shares our community’s values, has a track record of facilitating community consensus, and is skilled at assessing and utilizing existing studies (Climate Action Plan, Prosperity Report, Business Land Park etc etc.) Please visit their website to see the fruits of their labor. 

Please allocate this minimal investment of $5,000 now so that UC Davis and the business community can step forward as full partners in this important endeavor. 

Actively yours,

Kemble K. Pope
Executive Director

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