September 28, 2008

THE TRIBUNE ENDORSES LEN COLAMARINO

Len Colamarino's extensive background in business and law makes him a strong candidate for the City Council.

He also has experience in conflict resolution—a big plus in a city that's been so divided on issues, especially Wal-Mart.

Colamarino is a relative newcomer to Atascadero and is one of only two candidates without prior experience in city government.

We normally would be hesitant to endorse such a candidate; we strongly believe in the benefit of gaining experience on a subcommittee or a commission before running for a seat on a City Council or Board of Supervisors.

However, Colamarino correctly points out that Atascadero City Council members have, up to this point, been ideologically committed to one side or the other. We agree that this has contributed to the destructive, and oftentimes nasty, political divisiveness in the city.

Colamarino has not chosen a side on either Wal-Mart or the Shield Initiative—the ballot measure that would restrict the size of big-box stores.

That might frustrate—even turn off—some voters. But we see an advantage to electing someone who would look at the issue with fresh eyes, and could perhaps bring the two sides closer together.

As a newcomer to the community, Colamarino would be a good representative of that growing segment of the community. Plus, he's studied the issues, and has some strong ideas for improving the various business districts, such as restoring the old City Hall and possibly converting it to another use, such as a museum.

Bottom line: Len Colamarino's professional background and his experience in conflict resolution would be welcome assets on a council that's been beset by tension and conflict. We urge voters to select Len Colamarino.

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