City’s growth will be key issue for 2007
As we turn the page on 2006 and look ahead to 2007, it’s impossible not to see what a critical year it will be for Simi Valley.

The city is running out of developable land, leaving every remaining parcel worth its square footage in gold. Like the last remaining squares on a quilted masterpiece, once these blank spaces are stitched full, the work is complete.

There’s no lack of opinion regarding these valued empty lots and what they should be used for.

We’ve heard from the Southern California Association of Governments and the Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation that the city needs more affordable housing so its growing work force can have a place to live.

We’ve heard from city staff that the city needs more commercial office space to handle the growth in business. Simi Valley City Council members have been alerted to this need.

We’ve heard from the Council on Aging and other advocacy groups for the elderly that the city needs more residential care facilities and more affordable living units to accommodate its ever-growing senior population.

And we’ve heard from the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District that the city should have additional athletic fields to keep up with its growing number of youth sports teams.

The list of suggestions goes on, begging one very important question: What do you think the city’s remaining land parcels should be used for?

As we look ahead to 2007, there’s never been a more important time to get involved with your local government. City officials and developers are adding their final touches to the new Simi Valley, and if you plan on staying here and raising a family, your concerns should be heard.

We’re lucky to live in a city where the will of the people still influences our elected officials, but that good fortune means nothing if residents aren’t willing to take advantage of it.

Now is the time to flex your civic muscles and let your voice be heard. In fact, make it one of your New Year’s resolutions.

The future of the city depends on it.