We moved to Seal Beach to live in a small town where we could enjoy contributing to our city as we raised our families in a caring community. We have not been disappointed.
Having lived here a long time (150 years of combined experience), we would caution those who are sounding alarms that while it’s a good thing to hold the city and its officials accountable for their decisions, how you do it is crucial to the wellbeing of our small town.
It is important to let Seal Beach handle Seal Beach issues. Involving outsiders in our business betrays the very city we are trying to improve. We have been reading about one concern after another and wonder why
our town’s laundry is being hung outside of Seal Beach.
We operate under a system where we elect people to make decisions so we can go to work, raise our kids and enjoy our retirement. So, keeping an eye on how the money is spent and what policies are being passed is good, even important. But, at the same time, it is easy to find a “gotcha” or something that fell through the cracks or even take an issue that should be fixed and blow it so out of proportion that it can no longer be properly addressed. So, how all this is watched and what is done with the information can make the difference between making positive change or simply creating discontent.
If we find ourselves being riled up over one problem after another, it is time to stop and ask why. Is there a personal agenda at work? Beware of those who continually stir up trouble, provoke intrigue, and find fault. If there is no balance of airing what is right and encouraging what is good, something is amiss. Honesty and transparency are a two way street.
Having been involved for many years we have watched when things have gone well and not so well in this town. So, we call on our fellow Seal Beach residents to work together as a community, in a positive way, for a better Seal Beach. If there is something actually wrong, let’s fix it together! We don’t need outsiders. But, along the way let’s not forget to celebrate what’s been done well: a dedicated, professional staff, real pension reform, great community policing, new storm drains, a beautiful Main Street and reserves in the bank for a rainy day.
This is the best place to live. We need to look at both the forest and the trees to protect our special little town.
Gordon Shanks, 51 year resident.
Donna Chafe, 50 year resident.
Barbara Barton, 50 year resident.
