Here it is, 2009, and we all thought that by now the Flood Control project would be complete, development would be booming, retailers and professionals would be vying for space in our new Class A professional buildings – and all would be rosy in the City of Napa.

Well, reality is a bit removed from that 1999 dream, isn’t it? The Flood Control project is dismally delayed – doubled by all estimates – and Copia, one of the jewels in the crown of the Oxbow District, has hit the mat and is out for the count. Plans for the Ritz are rumored to be faltering due to the financial crisis and merchants in downtown are construction weary and struggling to hang on in this recession-ridden period of unprecedented uncertainty. Jeez, this is a cheery start of my column and the new year, isn’t it?

But wait! Let’s count up some of our blessings before we throw in the towel.
The Westin Verasa Napa is open, a great compliment to the River Terrace Inn, and presents a beautiful, well-appointed destination on the Napa River for visitors to enjoy. The Napa River Inn and the adjoining businesses in the Napa Mill Center finally have adequate parking for their customers. The Riverfront mixed use project is developing an exquisite exterior. Veteran’s Park is popular and incredibly beautiful and young and old alike have embraced the walking path along the Napa River. Oxbow Public Market is vibrant and hosting residents and visitors seven days a week with great offerings.

So when we look at the good and the bad, we must admit that there are plenty of things that are positives and helping to move Napa in the right direction. But there is one thing that is not moving. At all. And that one thing has the potential to put a stop to many of the good things on the horizon. What is that? It’s property owners who would rather sit on the sidelines and wait for what they perceive is going to be “a better deal” on their property than to improve it, get tenants in it and contribute to the overall look and feel of the downtown.

These owners do not appear to have the best interest of downtown Napa at heart. There are vacancies, broken and scratched windows, dilapidation, a general look of uncleanness and, I’d venture to say, perhaps even a threat to the health and safety of passersby that all can be laid at these owners’ feet. What the heck is up with that? Why is it OK for all this blight to exist in our downtown? How does this affect an outsider’s view of our city? Why would a reputable business want to open or relocate here if they are held to high standards when they build (just take a look at the Rossi buildings, Harry Price’s new building and the Avia Hotel) and yet it’s OK for a few property owners to just ignore how awful their properties make the rest of the neighborhood look?

Where is the outrage? Where is the enforcement of public standards, retrofitting ordinances and just plain common decency? Why are we subjected to this nonsense? I’m offended every time I see the disgusting condition of what should be a source of pride in our downtown. It’s not even about how it looks to the visitors (although, my goodness, that’s bad enough!) It’s about the pride I have in my own home town. I’m embarrassed by this neglect – and so should every other resident of this fine city.

So, I have a challenge for all of us. Let’s not put up with this anymore. Let’s begin putting pressure on all those involved (owners, city staff, elected officials) to do the right thing. Let’s see if they can all rise to a level that we can respect. Not just talk, but true action. Let’s write letters to the editor, to the city council, to the planning commission, to the City Manager and most importantly, to the property owners themselves. This column is my first public plea to all these owners. Anyone else want to “get ‘er done” with me? Step up – let’s work together to solve this problem in 2009. Are you with me? Then write your letters today.

Kate King
President/CEO
Napa Chamber of Commerce