Photograph by Jacqueline Ramseyer
Pete Contostavlos, a 38-year resident of Sunnyvale, marks down his three top quality of life priorities at the city's first of three open houses. The city is asking its residents to participate in identifying quality of life issues that will help drive city programs in the future.
Residents can determine council's agenda
'Quality of Life Initiative' gives voice to citizens' concerns
By Daniel Hindin
Sunnyvale recently took a major step in hearing and acting on public concerns about the life in the city. As part of the "Quality of Life Initiative," the city asked residents to vote for the three quality of life priorities that they thought the city should focus on in the future.
In 1999, a task force of Sunnyvale residents, designated by the city, defined the 13 most important issues that would help to maintain Sunnyvale's position as a quality place to live. In 2000, another task force narrowed the 13 issues down to eight. And now, with the help of Sunnyvale residents, they will narrow those eight issues down to between three and five.
City staff will present the final three to five issues to city council in February, and council will take final action on the issues in April. Once they adopt those issues, staff will begin to develop programs, as well as the mechanisms to measure their progress.
The eight issues the city wishes people to choose from include: efficient, safe transportation systems, both public and private; quality, diverse, affordable housing; a safe community--maintaining a low-crime environment; a healthy, sustainable environment--clean air, clean water and sufficient open space; a community with diverse, cultural opportunities--embracing multicultural entertainment and performing and fine arts; community pride and involvement; high quality education--with equal opportunities and resources for residents of all backgrounds; and a diverse and growing economy--maintaining a mix of business and industry.
The city also invites residents to present their own ideas, if they feel the eight designated priorities don't address the most important topics.
According to Councilman Jim Roberts, the idea for this program arose about three years ago.
"[Sunnyvale's previous City Manager] Tom Lewcock and I had been struggling for a way to communicate with the public," Roberts said. "A lot of times people don't understand what the government is doing--this is a way to put it all together for everyone."
Inspired by the idea, Roberts encouraged his fellow council members to place it on the study calendar. The idea soon gained enough support to become a reality.
Assistant City Manager Amy Chan, who played an active role in the carrying out the program, said, "I'm very excited about this project. It's a great way to engage the community from their point of view rather than from the bureaucratic side of things; we want to build a better sense of community."
The city held two open houses last week, during which residents could talk with city staff members about the different issues. Residents still have one more opportunity to attend the final open house at the Ortega Park Multipurpose Room, located at 636 Harrow Way between 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. on Jan. 25.
Residents who missed the first two open houses and can't attend the final one still have a chance to vote on the Internet through Jan. 26. Roberts reports that at least 47 people logged on to the city's website at www.ci.sunnyvale.ca.us/ql to place their vote on the first day alone. The city will send a summary of input gathered at the open houses and online to all who sign in.
Sunnyvale, California Since 1994
