Gauny ran a great campaign and did what few have been able to accomplish in the past, give an incumbent a real challenge. In the end it was not enough to break the grip of the local politico but it did crack the armor some and showed the possibilities. I hope that Mr. Gaumy is encouraged by what he has accomplished and will start his campaign today for the 2012 election.
Now the fun begins as the City moves to dole out retribution to those that have spoken out against the entrenched establishment. The plan is already in place to annex and divide some communities and there will be an aggressive move to just that.
I, along with many west side residents, will continue to oppose any annexation that tries to split up established communities, particularly those that are opposed by local Town Councils, Chambers of Commerce, and/or other community associations. The Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg State law discourages breaking up established communities especially when it falls into the category of “cherry-picking”.
The City of Santa Clarita, under current leadership, has generally failed to engage the Town Councils and community associations that represent these communities west of the I-5 Freeway. The very few presentations, perhaps 3 or 4 over the last 5 years, which have been made to these organizations, have not been met with a positive reception nor has there been a consistent building of a trusting and respectful relationship.
The darkness of an arrogant and belligerent City leadership will continue to shroud the Santa Clarita Valley at least for the next two years. The will be a concerted effort, a much more organized push, by the residents in the unincorporated West Ranch area to exert its own self-determination and look out for the best interests of the entire community.
It is truly a David and Goliath story being played out in our Valley and we all know how that ended!
Let the games begin!!
Dave Bossert- Commentary
Dave Bossert is a community volunteer who serves on a number of boards and councils. His commentaries represent his own opinions and not necessarily the views of any organization he may be affiliated with or those of the West Ranch Beacon.
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