The Smoke Filled Room

Local government doesn’t always get the attention it deserves, but as anyone familiar with Local Government will tell you it’s without doubt an area of politics where some of the most exciting developments occur (and let’s not forget the intrigue). If you are wondering, yes, this is a reference to the Bada-Bing from The Sopranos. Local politics is, of course, the stuff of legends in New Jersey. Where else do you hear about a Rabbi being involved in organ trafficking and development bribes? But this isn’t about New Jersey. Heck, this isn’t even just about local government politics; this is about the conversations that you would have in the Smoke-Filled Room. It means covering topics from the business of the day to general water cooler talk about sports, the jackass neighbor down the street, a recent restaurant experience or even a vacation. I’m not above stepping into bigger national politics as well.

So what is the point of this blog? What should you expect? Naturally, I’ll dabble in Bobcat Sports because that is the true purpose of this website. However, my true expertise and interest is the wonky world of public policy. And therein lays the true purpose of this blog: shedding a little light on the most fascinating features of local politics and whispers on the hill. As you might expect from me, there will be a large interest paid to land development in the San Marcos area. There are two reasons for this: I have experience in urban planning and because when you scratch the surface of virtually any local government controversy, you find a land use issue. Also, let’s face it—people love the development rumor mill.

To some extent, this will be a populist blog. By this I mean that you, the reader, can influence topic selection. Have you heard a rumor? Perhaps you are curious about something going on in the city and want my take on it. Crank up a thread in the “Life in San Marcos” sub-forum and see if I pick it up! One thing though: you will not get an endorsement of any candidates from me. I will, however, give my opinion on key election issues.

-Chance Sparks

chance@bobcatfans.com