What are the basic attributes that Homer has? In addition to the creativity and friendliness of its citizens, probably the funkiness and diversity of its shops lend the small town charm that makes Homer a special place. And of course the view and wondrous natural resources on our doorstep — a veritable cornucopia of exciting things to do. And the weather — not too hot, not too cold, lots of snow, lots of sun, and just enough rain to make the flowers grow.

More mundanely, but critically important, are a first-class hospital, a first-class library, a blossoming college growing to become an important part of the university, a first-class hockey rink, a great K-12 school system, an airport close to town but not too close with a runway long enough for mid-size jets and oriented to prevailing winds (in both directions) 95 percent of the time, and a port and small boat harbor that can be expanded for inter-modal shipping. Also basically unlimited room to grow without encroaching neighbors. The future is unlimited if we don’t muck it up (and even if we do).

What can we expect short term? Our biggest problem is probably a stuttering economy and insufficient low-cost housing, including student housing for the college. It’s rough out there from the standpoint of jobs and a high cost of living.

So, remembering that I’m an optimist, what do I foresee in the coming year?

1. A reduction in the estimated cost of Phase 2 hospital construction, (and maybe help from the Legislature) with a reduction of the proposed mill rate, resulting in approval of the bond issue this spring and completion of hospital construction.

2. Approval in the Legislature of funds for the university to buy City Hall for the expansion of Kachemak Community College.

3. Approval in the Legislature of funds for Homer for both PERS (retirement funding) and revenue sharing.

4. Approval by the city to enter into an agreement to build a new City Hall financed by revenue bonds, as is done all over the state.

5. A major commercial project under way in Town Center.

6. Reduction of the city’s property tax rate.

7. Beginning of a feasibility study by the Corps of Engineers for an East Harbor expansion for the USCGC Hickory and large fishing boats.

8. Extension of the Spit Trail to the end of the spit.

9. Continued growth in Homer and construction of housing.

Happy New Year!

Doug Stark is a longtime Homer resident who also serves on the Homer City Council. He was first elected to the council in 2002.