One of eight goals of the Albany 2030 Comprehensive Plan is to "maintain distinct, safe, quality neighborhoods." That's a smart goal, because I have found in the 42 years I've lived in Albany that people may find fault with the city as a whole, but they truly love their neighborhoods.
Residents show up at zoning and planning meetings to testify how important it is to them to maintain the character of their neighborhoods.
Residents testified at the redistricting commission's hearings to advocate for changes to the proposed ward boundaries in order to maintain the integrity of their neighborhoods. Although the commission made some changes, according to the residents who testified before the Common Council, some important ones were not. I understand why the Common Council is reluctant to change the lines at this stage. However, it is clear that since the commission did not, this is our last chance to maintain communities of interest, communities that are important to long-time residents.
The question is asked: What makes some communities of interest (i.e. long-time residents) more important than others (i.e. University at Albany students?)
I have attended many zoning, planning and Common Council meetings over the years, and I never once heard a UAlbany student speak up on anything. Just think back to when you were in college. Getting involved in local government was not exactly the first thing on your mind.
Longtime residents are the real communities of interest. They form the backbone of Albany's neighborhoods, and neighborhoods are Albany's strength. I urge the Common Council to support the Albany 2030 Plan by keeping neighborhoods intact instead of splitting them apart.
Virginia Hammer
Co-chair,
Beautify Upper Madison Projects
Vice president,
Pine Hills
Neighborhood Association
Albany
