Big Box Blog: Let’s pursue calm, cool debate

My Word by Mike Jones

Something strikes me as very odd when someone like a David Cobb, a short-time resident of Eureka, calls for citizens to “generate a little ... heat on our City Council members.” This rhetoric, seemingly more fitting for an Iraq war debate than a local rezone project, came about after we as a council voted democratically (4-1) to allow a public participation process to proceed on the Balloon Track proposal.

Indeed, Mr. Cobb as never called nor spoken to me regarding the “temperature” of our city, so I don't know what to expect from his army of heat-seeking pundits. What does that really mean, “generate a little heat?” Does it intend to provoke angry and fanatical debate? Is it a call to demonize council members? Am I to believe that this is a veiled threat? Will our local arsonist find it challenging? I have a lot of questions, Mr. Cobb, and I would like to know just exactly what you mean by “generate a little heat.”

The significance of the Balloon Track is unquestioned, and I look forward to the extensive public review and discussion which will continue on the proposed Marina Center project. I have been so proud to see the community come out to our council meetings in great numbers, and express their views in a strong, but civil manner. The ensuing public dialogue from those with differing visions is one which I hope will offer new ideas or innovative solutions for our council to consider on this strategic piece of private property. The fact that so many people are involved and participating is a testament to the importance of the Balloon Track development to our city and the region.

Of course, our community is changing rapidly, both through our transitioning economy and our shifting demographics. With change, often comes hard questions and tough debate and difficult decision making. And it is a time when, I believe, a changing community must be tolerant of each other's views if civil debate and constructive processes are to move forward. The type of inciting and provocative rhetoric espoused by Mr. Cobb does nothing but work to divide our community more deeply than it already is.

Mike Jones represents the 5th Ward on the Eureka City Council.

The opinions expressed in My Word pieces do not necessarily reflect the editorial viewpoint of the Times-Standard.

Big Box Blog

Let’s pursue calm, cool debate — not heat-seeking rhetoric

TrackBack

Comments