Our Founding Fathers, in the Declaration of Independence, recognized ..."certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness..."  
     
  It is worth noting that Life superceded Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.  
     
 

In order to sustain Life, one needs clean air and potable (drinkable) water, which is why I am an unabashed environmentalist. Life is the first and foremost Right of our citizens.

 
     
  Responsible stewardship of our natural resources is essential to preserve that Right.
 
     
  I support Smart Growth*  
     
  I support preservation of the Chesapeake (we need more run-off control and much more sewage treatment and sewage system repair and enhancement).  
     
 

I support the creation of a multi-state board (with teeth) for the preservation of the Bay (What happens to water in Ohio is just as important as what happens in Maryland).

 
     
  I support continued efforts to preserve and protect our streams (I don't want my grandchildren to have to go to an aquarium to see a crayfish!)  
     
 
*Principles of Smart Growth
 
 
  • Create a range of housing opportunities and choices.
  • Create walkable neighborhoods.
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  • Encourage community and stakeholder collaboration.

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  • Foster distinctive, attractive places with a strong sense of place.
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  • Make development decisions predictable, fair, and cost-effective.
  • Mix land uses.

  • Preserve open space, farmland, natural beauty, and critical environmental areas.

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  • Provide a variety of transportation choices.

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  • Strengthen development and direct it toward existing communities.
  • Take advantage of compact building design.

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    Copyright © 2006 John R. Austin