What a change a week makes.
On June 26, Jacob Elder put out this statement:
On June 26, Jacob Elder put out this statement:
Yep, Housing. It’s the first time he’s talked about it since October, when he mentioned some tax issues.
Suddenly, housing is the issue.
That was made clear to us several days earlier, when the city’s propaganda rag put out several articles about the housing crisis, and possibly speeding up the regulatory process.
A few days later, another story was put up, one designed to change the narrative, making it seem like Engen is riding to the rescue.
Then on the next day, it was confirmed the city was going to increase taxes to try to increase housing construction.
I know - you can’t fix stupid. The developers were all saying things like this just add to the construction cost, making it harder to build.
And what does the city do? The increase costs, making it harder to build.
You can’t fix stupid.
I saw this coming a mile away.
It’s why I ran - to change the discussion, alter the narrative...get us talking about what’s really important.
I was blessed that the young Missoulian reporter took an interest in me, and did an article on me. I can only hope that other candidates get the same, especially our struggling city council candidates, whom the media always ignore. I know, I’ve been there.
I think we’re gonna see a lot more change and a lot more discussion about the real issues as we move through the coming months.
This is good. This is how Democracy thrives - with the easy, and free-flowing exchange of ideas, and ideals.
Forcing the hand.
I think we’re going to see a huge increase in the speed at which the city allows development.
This will help both renters and homeowners, especially those feeling insecure with their current housing situation, lease, or whatnot. Businesses will prosper as well, having a reliable pool of workers...because those workers don’t face housing insecurity.
I think we’re moving in the right direction.
What a change a week makes.
I think John Engen is scared. In 2013, we had 4 mayoral candidates, but he didn’t call for a primary.
But this year he is, despite the protests of the county elections office, who scoff at the idea of spending $114,000 for it.
But Engen knows he needs that primary to win.
I think we’re going to see a lot of change this year.
