Mr. Mittel, with all respect, how do you measure success, growth and reputation in the last 15 years here in Fredericksburg?

Is growth measured by the dearth of affordable housing or is it by the caravans of good families who come yet after a few years have to go because there is no work for them? I have a page full of names.

Is success measured by the lack of investment in quality of life infrastructure for our citizens like new pocket neighborhood parks, existing park improvements, or curious ordinances (like sidewalk, alcohol & noise) that support local families instead of just tourists?

A reputation should be lauded when it has been earned. The last 15 years has really been about our town resting on its past laurels while other towns are innovating through master planning and job creation (see Boerne), and through conservation efforts (see Austin). When will the out-of-towners finally catch on that less than 5% of our community speaks German anymore. What’s Plan B?