The terms "preserving our community" and "saving the city" carry distinctly independent definitions. I thought it was a point worth mentioning. In my latest blog entry titled "Redefining Myself", I don't believe I drove this point home.
"Preserving our community" means we retain the ingredients that make up our foundation while continuing to build. Examples of this are: community gathering establishments (Senior Center, Youth Activity Center, Pacific Park, and Library), Community Services (Fire Department, Police Department, Post Office, Churches, Senior Center, Youth Activity Center, and Library), Utility Services (water, sewer, garbage, electric, gas, phone, cable or satelite).
"Saving the city" means we retain the name Pacific. We keep our Mayor, City Council, Police Department, and City Employees.
If we "lose the city", we may have a different name, a different Police Department, the Mayor and Council would no longer be required, the City Employees (what's left of them) would no longer be required, and we may become a part of Auburn or Unincorporated King County. The Fire Department, Library, Churches, Post Office, Utility Services (still available may change provider), and Park (belongs to King Co.) stay. The Senior Center and Youth Activity Center may carry different names, however they represent the heart of this community and no way would we let them go. Some of the grants may need to come from other sources, but as far as I'm concerned, they stay.
The intent with this blog entry is simple. Our community is torn right now. It's a stressful, overwhelming, uncertain time and I can see this is wearing on people. I've found peace with acceptance. We may lose the city and yes, the "unknown" is scary. What eases fear? A strong support system (community), education (stay informed), perspective (try to be objective and realistic), and preparation (proactive planning). I would also recommend recognizing and accepting your own limits, This is not a political site, and in no way do I want or expect you to change your personal views. I respect all views on this issue. I just found some peace around this for myself and wanted to offer it to you.
In life, there are no guarantees, but for what it's worth, I firmly believe with a strong community, we will be just fine no matter the outcome.
Have a great evening and thanks for reading = )