Gordon Foer: The Politics Of Nature
The following letter appeared in local newspapers and is reprinted here with permission of the author Gordon Foer. Gordon is a member of the Charlestown Planning Commission and a candidate for Planning in the 2020 election.
As a member of the Charlestown Planning Commission running again as a CCA-endorsed candidate, I am used to getting criticism for virtually any decision we make. That, I guess, is the nature of politics.
But let’s talk about the politics of nature. Perhaps the most obvious and consequential of CCA’s platforms is its focus on protecting the environment, our wildlife, the forests and our water. The PC’s main purview is the human-built environment. We do not have unlimited powers over the rights and designs of land owners and property developers. We aren’t anti-business or anti-development — we can’t be! In fact, we are limited to ensuring that developers follow Charlestown’s subdivision and commercial development regulations while conforming to the town’s Comprehensive Plan — on which, by the way, CCA Planning Commission candidates have worked countless hours.
Sometimes a party will grow weary of our questioning and requests; it’s not always smooth sailing. We are, after all, advocating for the town as a whole. Sometimes our site walks and public hearings turn up surprising information or ideas that actually (!) not only improve a proposal, but save mucho dinero in the process.
During my 10 years on the commission, we only denied one or two development proposals (including Dollar General). But it’s no secret that the CCA candidates for Town Council and Planning Commission have a backbone where the environment is concerned. That means promoting — as best we can, given our legal restrictions — development that is appropriate, well-designed aesthetically and environmentally, and which contributes to the long-term viability and livability of Charlestown.
Support CCA candidates if you want Charlestown to remain a stand-out town.
You can learn more about the author, Gordon Foer, at his profile page.
September 26, 2020 @ 1:33 am
I have had the pleasure of watching Mr. Foer’s probing and thoughtful questions prior to deciding on an issue. He never fails to add clarity to an issue. It is instructive to watch him work and I have learned much from him. I believe we need fair and careful thinkers like him.
September 24, 2020 @ 8:42 am
Gordon Foer is a reasonable, thoughtful example of good government. He understands that the benefits for the whole town outweigh the benefits to the few. He also understands that the wants and desires of the few must be recognized so that good government can be what it is intended to be – fair and equitable for all concerned.
September 24, 2020 @ 7:40 am
These CCA endorsed candidates all have the Values and Views to help maintain the character of Charlestown, while moving us forward and maintaining the low tax rate we enjoy….please vote for them all on Nov. 3rd.