LETTER: Newly elected Des Moines Councilmember already working
Wed, 12/07/2011
The Des Moines voters gave me strong support in my low budget election to Des Moines Council 4 position. I used no signs and accepted no contributions. Thank You!
I will not take office until January. However, I am using some of the time to work on several citizen issues.
Highline Water District invited me to attend their rate hearings as their supplier Seattle was talking about a 28 percent rate increase gouge. While Highline rates may be increased up to 6 percent the 28 percent increase went to other districts.
I suggested that a commissioner delegation along with their association could approach the Seattle Council to obtain a better share of the water revenue.
The new manager of Water District 54 gave me a 3" thick copy of the new Comprehensive Water System reconstruction plan dated August 2011 to bring WD 54l into the future. The system already has 4 water pressure reducers to keep pressure within safe limits and plans to replace substandard lines with new 12" lines downtown to bring water volume up to standards
The pressure and lack of water flow have been considered a major handicap, which prevents business development downtown. The redevelopment plans have been waiting since August for approval by the King County Council.
I have received calls about restoration of the sling boat launch at the Marina. I maintain a relationship with the Port commissioners with the idea for the Port to use part of their $75 million property tax levy to reimburse airport cities for home and business depreciation caused by lost tax revenue due to Port operations. A major issue is that too many agencies are becoming involved in the "approval" of various improvement programs. These approvals are driving the cost to taxpayers out of sight.
Dan Caldwell
Des Moines Council Position 4 Elect