Measure "D" on the June 2, 1998 ballot for the City of Santa Clara will
let the citizens decide whether the city's planned development with Sun
Microsystems should proceed.
The Santa Clara City Council ignored their own Planning Commission, and
Historical Landmarks Commissions' recommendations - both of which voted
against the Sun project, as did CalTrans and others.
In other words, the Santa Clara City Council voted by the smallest
simple majority (4 votes for Sun, and 3 votes for Agnews) to affect a
major quality of life issue, contrary to the advise of their own
advisory boards. An issue of this magnitude is more appropriately
decided by a two-thirds majority vote, or, is more rightly submitted to
the voters to decide. (which the City Council voted against)
Citizen input was allowed, but not really heard. The four yes voters had already made up their minds.
Essentially public input was kept to a minimum, and in reality ignored.
This project was a done deal even before
any public input was allowed.
For example, why was there no fiscal
analysis on this project? That is not a small oversight! Projects incur costs as well
as generaste revenue.
The Santa Clara City Council has not provided what one might consider a
stellar example of the democratic process. It is more appropriately
referred to as a subversion of it.
Let's stop this boondogle, go back, and Do Things
Right.
The Agnews issue has been controversial and divisive. "Measure D"
provides the vehicle for letting the voters decide the matter.
As a voter in the City of Santa Clara, you should let your voice be
heard. Make sure your vote is counted. Please be a caring and
responsible citizen, make the democratic process work, and vote
You may contact the Agnews Preservation Coalition by Email. Just press
the button.