Moscow is my home. Not by necessity, but because I love this city for it's uniqueness and personality. I want to maintain city services in the most economical and efficient manner possible; utilizing citizens' tax dollars sensibly. Providing water, sewer, sanitation, streets, transportation (eg. airport), fire, police, parks and arts are the fundamentals of municipal government and I want to adhere closely to these goals.
|
Broadening Moscow's economic underpinnings is a goal I will pursue. Our city has several major employers: Gritman Hospital, Emsi, Moscow School District, Northwest River Supplies and especially the University of Idaho. We need to strive to attract more fundamental businesses to town to provide a more diversified and resilient economic base.
More housing is critically needed in Moscow. At the current 1% growth rate, we need about 100 new dwelling units per year (at 2.5 people per unit, on average). Construction has not nearly kept pace with population increases. We must encourage more housing, preferably "in-fill" development in the core of Moscow that would provide urban living options, but not to the total exclusion of more traditional development on the outskirts of the city. A diversity and certainly an increase in housing supply is badly needed to help reduce costs to a more affordable level. As such we also need to begin moving on securing more water sources than the current groundwater (Grand Ronde aquifer) the currently use. Much research has been performed on this issue; it is now time we begin to implement a plan to mitigate the drawdown in the aquifer. |
Moscow has a "sense of place". This includes a lively social life, a vibrant downtown and ample parks and art programs. Any average city can have excellent infrastructure, but without a unique live-ability, there is little to elevate a city. Moscow is the "Heart of the Arts" and a vigorous, thriving arts and culture is what sets Moscow apart from other towns. Support for cultural and social events (parades, block parties, Rendezvous in the Park, Renaissance Fair, Farmers Market, etc.) all contribute to Moscow's identity and should be not only preserved, but encouraged.
|
Moscow is also a diverse, highly varied, receptive city. Non-discrimination, receptivity to a wide range of opinions is a hallmark of our city. We must further strive to equity and inclusion in city policies, procedures, and practices. All citizens of Moscow will be treated with respect and even-handedness both now and into the future.
Friends of BettgeForMayor © 2021 | Web Design by Michelle Karel-Ward