Leigh Anne Smith, continued

revitalization program that relies on public/private incentives to support Ardmore business and property owners as a means of reviving the district without the use of eminent domain. I support the recommendations of the Urban Land Institute (which were requested by our Township Commissioners and funded by our tax dollars), and in particular its endorsement of a plan that would enhance, while preserving, the character of a town they recognized already has an enviable, rich mix of historic and other buildings, well-suited to a conservative revitalization program. With close community involvement, we can develop and articulate a strong, forward looking vision for Ardmore that relies on renovation and re-use, that taps into the talent and initiative of our citizens, that is implemented over time, and includes in the more imediate future, a new train station and parking facilities. Such a plan will enable Ardmore to reach its full potential while avoiding what the ULI saw as an over-extension of the Township's project management resources and will conserve Township financial resources.

As an active member of the community, I have come to believe that many of the problems confronting our Township, including those we face in Ardmore, relate to our failure to have in place an updated Comprehensive Plan. As a citizen, I have spoken out about ramifications of our existing Plan (which was adopted in 1979), and as a candidate I have urged openness and community-involvement in arriving at a much needed current plan. If elected to the Board, I will work toward the prompt completion of an updated Comprehensive Plan because it is essential to achieve rational strategic planning of a kind that is currently lacking--planning that will not only guide our efforts in Historice Ardmore--but throughout our community.

Original Responses