Kudos to Commissioners Gamble, Hall and Martinson for voting to withdraw support for the Smart Growth America workshop “Complete Streets.” Also thanks to the Cook County News-Herald staff for its extensive coverage of this important issue.
We did a little research on Smart Growth America. What they offer sounds very appealing, espousing goals that no one would possibly dispute. After all, who wouldn’t be in favor of smart growth instead of dumb growth? Who would opt for dangerous routes to school? And who would want kids to get less exercise?
Smart Growth America has a specific political agenda that commandeers local control. Their approach is often seductive in terms of offering grants, technical assistance and a host of inviting hooks, all directed at local government officials who are frequently clueless about the seduction of commitment embedded in the pitch.
We do not want or need anyone other than ourselves defining our local identity or influencing local issues.
Nick and Carol Burger
Grand Marais
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