The Cannon Beach Comprehensive Plan was prepared under the requirements of Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 197. It has “the force of law.” It’s on the city website; read it if you care about the $33.6 million revenue bond that our leaders are trying to push through without input from citizens regarding a new City Hall, police station and renovated school.

The comprehensive plan says that “Cannon Beach is a community in which citizens are concerned enough to become involved in all phases of city affairs.” I am a proud member of Cannon Beach Together, a group of citizens who are “concerned enough to become involved.”

The vision statement from the comprehensive plan says: “The intent of the city is to plan for a modest level of growth over the next two decades … in small incremental steps.” Note: “modest level of growth” and “small incremental steps.”

The plan cites “unique community characteristics” that are challenged by what is going on at City Hall:

• “A small town where the characteristics of a village are fostered and promoted”

• “A community spiritedness which results in a high level of community participation”

Our City Council and city manager are taking away the most basic tenet of “community participation” in a democratic society: The opportunity and the right to vote. Why are they afraid of a vote regarding their $33.6 million bond?

And, why doesn’t the comprehensive plan (“force of law”) apply to them?

DAVID FREI

Seattle