George,

As an involved member of the Charlottesville community and active participant in what our city government is doing (or not doing what is needed) I want to support candidates for city council who have good ideas for moving the city toward meeting our housing, transportation, education, recreation, workforce development, and other needs in the city. But, so far I only can identify ONE candidate - Dave Norris - who is addressing these issues and providing me and the other Charlottesville voters with clear information about his vision and specific proposals he will bring to city council to realize that vision.

On Junuary 26, Dave Norris unveiled his Affordable Housing platform and on February 9 he unveiled his Education platform (available online at http://www.votefordave.org). These platform items provide a clear indication that Dave Norris understands what work needs to be done and who needs to be involved, and he has proposed action plans for meeting our challenges in providing affordable housing and educational opportunity.

I look forward to seeing Dave Norris' platforms addressing poverty and reducing racial disparities in our community; and promoting environmental sustainability in local and regional planning. I know that Dave is working with people and organizations in our community who are committed to meeting these challenges and who have the necessary knowledge, experience, and energy to work with Dave to develop action agendas for both of these soon to be released platforms.

Although there are two council seats to be filled in the May election, so far Dave Norris is the only candidate who has given us clear reasons to support him with our vote. My other vote is available to a candidate who will present a strong vision for Charlottesville, and can provide an action agenda to realize that vision. Julian Taliaferro has announced that he is a candidate for one of the city council seats and I am hoping to see his vision and an action plan that will move our city forward in significant ways.

I will be at the Democratic Nominating Convention at Burley Middle School on Rose Hill Drive (March 4 at 1:00 pm) to support Dave Norris for City Coouncil. I am still looking for my second candidate with a vision and a plan for Charlottesville to support with my other vote.

- Peter Kleeman ( electronic mail, February 9, 2006)