Two seats are open for the Capitola City Council. At first there were just three candidates – Ed Bottorff, Robert Edgren, Kristen Petersen – but now there are four as Sam Storey is running as a write-in Candidate.
We asked all the candidates two questions. Here are the responses of three – Robert Edgren, Kristen Petersen and Sam Storey – Ed Bottorff failed to respond.
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1) Do you support economic development that includes upgrading the Capitola Mall, the Rispin Property, and new hotels in the area?
Kristin Petersen: Many community members have expressed concern about the possibility of a large hotel in Capitola Village. I share their concerns and would like to ensure that any development in the village matches the quaint charm and style the village current offers.
I strongly support economic development along the 41st Avenue corridor, including upgrading and remodeling the Capitola Mall as outlined in our General Plan. Additionally, I am excited about the changes underway at the Rispin Property. Located directly across from the current Capitola Library and future library site, I believe Rispin Park will provide value to our community as a historical open space where you can relax with a good book.
Bob Edgren: Capitola Mall — For over forty years I worked closely with over 20 different regional malls on their promotions and marketing. I believe this qualifies me more than any other candidate in addressing mall needs, dynamics and direction. Capitola Mall must reinvent the mall experience for this market. Adding low income residential nearby is a bad idea. This would only cast a darker shadow on the struggling location. How to make our mall vibrant, exciting and a cool place to visit requires professionalism with experience that I can provide.
Rispin — I was a member of the original Friends of Rispin after the city purchase. I have pressed on numerous occasions to save and develop it. I am the Rispin’s biggest friend. There exists a window opportunity to combine a portion of the Rispin into the new library development. If this opportunity is passed, it would be a sad day for the Rispin. More can be read on my website. www.BobForCapitola.com
New Hotels — I envision more boutique hotels in and near the Village. As far as a large chain type operation, I have mixed views. Capitola is a very small area. Any significant addition would be a major change, be it positive or negative and cannot be reversed.
Sam Storey: I support smart economic development that is compatible with Capitola’s general plan, appropriately zoned, and enhances the look and feel of Capitola.
The 41st Avenue corridor and Mall is Capitola’s principal economic engine. The City needs to be partners with the Mall to make it an attractive regional destination.
As a former councilmember, I supported turning the Rispin Mansion into a public park. I would like to work to preserve the monarch butterfly habitat at that location, and bring back the historical landscaping and fountains. Having the new library across the street will add to this wonderful setting for public use.
I support new hotels that are appropriate in size and character for a location and don’t greatly impact neighborhoods.
2) What changes would you want to see in Capitola over the next 10 years?
Sam Storey: Over the next 10 years the challenge will be to protect the things that we love about Capitola; its small town feel, beautiful environment, and wonderful quality of life in the neighborhoods for families and residents of all ages. Any change should enhance those qualities while reducing or eliminating aspects that currently detract from them.
I will work to improve parking and reduce the impact of traffic in the village; provide a safe bike/walking trail that goes through the heart of Capitola; and turn the temporary parking lot at Pac Cove into additional open space for residents.
Kristin Petersen: Within the next ten years, I would like to see a growth in economic development along 41st Avenue in order to attract businesses that may provide wages which allow our residents to work where they live rather than commuting over the hill. Additionally, I’d like to see more affordable housing options, and measures taken to expand opportunities for civic involvement.
Bob Edgren: A significant portion of the village area with less vehicle traffic. There are 4 main feeder streets going into the Village. How crazy is that? The Village needs to be more friendly to pedestrians, bikes, and small electric vehicles. Circumvent the traffic away from the Village. 41st Avenue and other areas? Again, far too much traffic and this will only increase. We need to improve the quality of life here, meaning less cars, trucks, and the like.