Mayor’s Race: Marsh a businessman, not developer

Garrad Marsh came to the same conclusion as many Modestans when it came to the controversy over the ill-fated Village I development.

Many of us were initially excited by the visionary plan that was first proposed. It seemed to be an example of smart growth in a community that had come to view urban spread as inevitable, thanks to the action (or inaction) of previous city councils.

In his years as an involved citizen and civic leader, Marsh has been a consistent and vocal advocate for building up — not out. He is not a "developer," as the Brad Hawn flier insinuates, but rather a business owner who has always acted in the best interests of the city.

Rather than caving in, as a council member, to the demands of the developers, he has been a strong leader promoting smart growth.

Hawn, in a desperate and despicable attempt at smear tactics, has only diminished his own image and reputation.

Please join me in supporting a candidate with integrity — Marsh.

PAUL NEUMANN

Modesto