It looks as
if the ongoing debate over the extension of the Amador Economic Stimulus Package has come to a close- at
least temporarily. During a Board meeting Tuesday packed with realtors and
contractors in support of the package, the Supervisors and a
cross-section of residents from throughout the County debated the merits and
setbacks. The main point of
contention that had brought the issue back before the council was the permit limit,
which had already been reached within two weeks of the package’s initial
approval. Supporters of the package generally agreed that swift action and an
extension of the permit limit were necessary in order to satisfy those who had
not been able to submit plans for approval by the original deadline. While the
Supervisors generally agreed that the purpose of the agenda item was to discuss
a permit limit extension, the debate primarily revolved around the proposal’s
ambiguities.
Parties from both
sides of the podium expressed confusion as to what limits were in place that
would prevent contractors from qualifying for permits and then sitting on them
indefinitely. In the opinion of Public Works Director Larry Petersen,
the current 18 month time limit is vague. Both proponents and opponents stated
concern over the lack of accountability in respect to the calculated effects
that this proposal would have on the local economy. “I hear nothing 
about how much money is going
to come back into this county,” said Pine Grove citizen John Carlson. Upcountry resident Debbie Dunn
reiterated his concern, saying that, “issuing permits does not automatically
indicate the economy has been stimulated.” Sheriff Martin Ryan also
urged the Board to oppose expanding the package because of his concern over the
lack of funding needed for the new jail site. Despite the opposition,
supporters remained enthusiastic. “If we can achieve 100 new starts, we can do better than any other
place in the state. I really believe that we can pull the county out of this
slump,”Novelli for 30 new permits at half fees and half deferred cost, 60 more
permits with only deferred fees, a permit application period of 6 months, and a
required final inspection or sale of each new project within 2 years. said contractor and package co-author Paul Bramell. The Board
approved a motion by Supervisor
