How to deal with growth. It is a common political theme, and in many cases, where money comes from. The politicians that favor development's interests tend to build up large war chests, financed primarily by developers, realtors, and construction outfits.
Real estate and developer interests are weighing in heavily on Mount Vernon City Council campaigns to the advantage of incumbents.
Council members Joe Lindquist and Dale Ragan each received $1,000 from the state Realtors’ political action committee. Lindquist also received $500 from developer Brian Gentry.
The three incumbent council members who drew challengers in this year’s contest have already raised thousands of dollars more than their opponents, according to documents submitted to the state Public Disclosure Commission.
My favorite part is when the politicians have to reconcile their votes with the money they get. They really start to squirm when put in that situation.
The Realtors’ association has given $1,000 dollars to Lindquist and Ragan because the councilmen have been supportive of issues important to Realtors and home buyers, said Ron Wortham of Brown-McMillan Real Estate in Burlington.
Wortham, a leading member of the association, said the organization uses its political action committee to support candidates who argue for affordable housing.
“We’re trying to be proactive to provide more opportunities for affordable housing,” he said. “We’re very involved.”
Ragan said he appreciates the Realtors’ support and said he doesn’t feel the association’s donations affect city affairs.
“We as a complete council make those decisions and I’ve never received any pressure from anyone one way or another” from donors, Ragan said.
Uh huh.