Question the Candidates: III Geoff Young

If elected, what would you do to promote open government in Larchmont?

The recurring theme I hear campaigning is that residents feel left out of the process. They want to know what the issues are, to be heard, and to feel that their contributions are valued. This lack of communication was an issue in the last election, and promises made then clearly have not been honored to residents’ satisfaction. Communication is not limited to televising Board meetings or holding Saturday office hours; it means consistently promoting the free flow of information. One instance: opening up the budget process. Inclusive meetings seeking an exchange of ideas may take time and effort, but the result—consensus—is well worth it.

With Flint Park, for example, I would have sought input from the public at the outset, before plans were drawn. The current focus on playing fields does not do justice to the Park’s waterfront location; nor is it sensitive to environmental concerns. Those residents concerned about these features have effectively been excluded.

I believe listening is the key to open government. Whether in the grocery store, at a social gathering, or during the Board meetings, I intend to seek the ideas of my neighbors for preserving and improving life in Larchmont.