Commentary: I will be dedicated to keep Newport’s heritage going strong

My interest in running for City Council surrounds my appreciation of Newport Beach. I’ve lived here since 1970 and sailed on Newport Harbor with my parents from childhood.

How fortunate I have been to live, work and play in a locale blessed with rare natural gifts that inspired the growth of an exceptional community.

If elected, I will be dedicated to keeping Newport’s heritage. This includes our uniquely vibrant villages, strong, safe neighborhoods, and the caretaking of our upper and lower bays. I will work to continue our history of generosity that inspired the OASIS Senior Center, Hoag Hospital, Marina Park, well-managed beaches, the Back Bay preserve and our culture of welcoming others to share all our town has to offer.

I will listen to residents as we move forward in the ongoing effort to balance growth with the quality of life we love.

I miss so many parts of “Old Newport” and treasure what’s left, but I also know our community will always be on the move by growing, improving and inspiring.

We’ve been growing since the Balboa Pavilion opened in 1906. We must manage growth well. More than ever, this will depend upon an engaged citizenry. Together we must consider the impacts of growth on the environment, traffic and views. When united and involved, residents can have great influence on these important decisions.

Keeping Newport’s heritage also requires excellent city management, beginning with sound fiscal policy and implementation. We may be one of the wealthiest cities in the United States, but this should never influence the city’s effort to deliver citizens great service and value at the lowest cost.

In this effort, we must work together to reduce the city’s financial liabilities while continuing to improve infrastructure and service. This balancing should be accomplished with careful civic deliberation shaped by the needs of residents, businesses and visitors.

While we have our challenges, Newport continues to thrive, thanks to the efforts of many who care about this extraordinary place.

I’ve been lucky. My father was an engineer. My mother was a homemaker and part-time schoolteacher. Our family made the most of a small home, the bay, the beaches and ocean.

While some may argue otherwise, I still see Newport as a small town whose residents work hard to create solid communities and make a good life for their families. This is the simple heritage of Newport, one worth remembering, building upon and protecting.

BRAD AVERY is a Newport Beach harbor commissioner and candidate for City Council.