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The League of Women Voters of California

Smart Growth Resources Available

How local Leagues can connect with "Smart Growth" resources was the topic of the Managed Growth Workshop at State Convention. Steve Sanders, Director of the California Futures Network (CFN), reviewed ways we must change the "current rules of the game" governing growth and development. President Sue Kelley shared the successful action plan for Ventura LWV's participation in SOAR, an Urban Growth Boundary ballot measure. The Greenbelt Alliance related the long-term efforts to protect the rich agricultural resources in Santa Clara County.

If the principles of smart growth are to be successful, policies at the state level have a key role in reforming the system to provide fiscal stability to local governments and incentives that reinforce balanced land use patterns. In light of California's astounding growth projections and the public's concern that their quality of life is at risk, we must insist that our elected representatives be accountable.

Sound familiar? All of this ties in with our adopted Issue for Emphasis - Sustainability Education and Action. Since LWVC is an affiliate of CFN, watch for suggestions on how we can work together. For further information, see http://www.calfutures.org/.

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