Christal Wood for Seattle Mayor

Perhaps the single most insidious issue facing Seattle is the social elevation of commerce and consumerism over community and culture. Commercialism and profit interest have come to dominate our physical spaces. In a very real sense, "Business Communities" have replaced communities in political discussion. Statute follows suit, and economic disparities worsen. Gentrification caused by over-development has caused a popular exodus. This exodus continues to divert revenue, causes traffic problems, and drains the city of its cultural base.

As Mayor, I would seek to eliminate corporate advertising in Seattle schools; and limit lobbying as well as membership as such on city commissions, boards and agencies. I also would seek to reduce the role of so-called "Public-Private Partnerships," in the provision of vital services.

I would work to reverse the current duality which corporate actions are governed under the law. Corporate entities must not continue to be held less accountable than individuals for damages done to the health or well-being of society. Nor should business entities be granted undue legal privilege as compared to individuals.

I would seek prohibitions on corporate/economic predation in credit and lending; by seeking to erect or augment existing laws regarding economic usury, and "red-lining" of low-income or minority consumers.

I would seek to limit infringements on privacy through information technology, by instituting local protections on the acquisition, use or sale of personal information.