In a couple of Santa Barbara Independent news articles on the coming City Council elections, candidate Lesley Wiscomb is mentioned as having garnered support from opponents of the high-density housing “smart growth” agenda, permitting an implication that she is a one-trick pony marching in lock-step with anti-housing advocates. Hogwash! Who the hell else are those who are skeptical of our risky-assumption housing schemes going to support, the true-belief ideologues candidates who will embrace just about anything that promises “affordable housing” miracles?
I first met Lesley Wiscomb only recently, and without discussing any specific issues, the impression that came immediately to mind was: This is exactly the kind of candidate we dream of trying to attract to run for local office. I honestly don’t know whether her attitudes on specific issues square with mine; it suddenly didn’t matter. I do know that she will assess issues rationally and compassionately, with a quick intelligence and a broad, analytical, and open mind. What more could we ask?
To not elect someone like this when we are lucky enough to have them come forward would be a travesty! We, as voters, are often told we get what we deserve. Here, at last, is a golden opportunity to elect someone who stands out, perhaps even beyond our deserving. Let’s grab it.