The timing does seem just a tad convenient, but the reasons given should be accepted at face value while acknowledging that the suspicions are warranted.
The need for reasons and the cause of suspicions emanate from years of bad relationships that could be somewhat cleared by joining around mutual capacity building that looks at what is good for the community.
The current work around a Joint Powers Authority for the Parkway is one, of many, areas that could serve as a springboard for such capacity building.
County's fix-ups aren't placating cityhood backers
By Ed Fletcher - Bee Staff Writer
Published 12:00 am PST Monday, March 5, 2007
In recent weeks, Arden Arcade has been the first and only target of two Sacramento County pilot programs to spruce up aging, unincorporated county turf.
The efforts have some wondering whether "Pothole Sweeps Week" and the "Operation Refresh" streetscape update were just good government or if the county was reacting to an effort to turn Arden Arcade into a city of its own.
Last week, Arden Arcade cityhood proponents turned in 13,591 signatures in hopes of a November 2008 vote to turn the area into an incorporated city.
If at least 9,500 signatures are determined to be valid, the process continues with a local intergovernmental agency analyzing the feasibility of the proposed city.
"It's too much of a coincidence that Arden Arcade is getting the attention now, after being neglected for so long," said Joel Archer, chairman of the cityhood campaign.
He said the efforts were long overdue.
But county officials say Arden Arcade was chosen for the pilot programs because it is one of the older Sacramento County communities.
In late November, "Pothole Sweeps Week" had county workers plugging every road divot in the 13-square-mile area.
Then, last month maintenance workers began "Operation Refresh" -- painting street lines, replacing old street signs and legends.
The next targets of these programs have not been announced.
Supervisor Susan Peters, who was sworn into office in 2005, said the projects within her district have long been in the works and are part of her effort to strengthen the economic vitality of the area.
