To the Editor:
Decades of study refute commonly held beliefs about growth and progress. The net economic effect of unfettered growth is negative. The May 2015 volume 25, Number 3 issue of the Chesapeake Bay Journal educates us to better understand Allison's Silberberg's courageous moderation. Great articles by Lara Lutz and Tom Horton (about the Growth and the Future of the Chesapeake Bay conference in January) describe the economic impacts of unchecked and controlled growth, and land conservation.
Allison Silberberg is the best choice for mayor for those of us who want balanced growth. She considers development proposals in the physical and economic context of what is good for residents and the functioning of our community. The other candidates for mayor have demonstrated that they see all increases in development as unmitigated good, while sidelining serious examination of context, and traffic, parking and environmental impacts. Think of BRAC under Bill Euille, an enthusiastic proponent of unchecked development. Aren't you tired of the uncritical approval of all density increases and the heavier impacts on our community and property taxes that it brings?
We know that ever-increasing density is a pyramid scheme destined to collapse on us after others take their profits. Vote for Allison Silberberg. She is a leader who can help us break this vicious cycle.
Kathleen Kust
Alexandria