By PETE SHEEHEY
Los Alamos County Councilor

I support Sean Williams for Los Alamos County Councilor.

After initially coming to LANL to work as a PhD computer scientist, Sean is now the co-owner of a successful Los Alamos small business, Automotive Professionals. He knows the challenges businesses face here, in an overpriced and under-available downtown, and as a homeowner in a community with a severe housing shortage.

Sean’s service on the County Planning and Zoning Commission has educated him on the need for county government to balance individual property rights and the goals of the community. He has good ideas to revitalize Los Alamos and White Rock downtowns. Mixed-use, higher density zoning downtown would allow first-floor storefronts for small businesses accompanied by affordable upper floor residential space.  County policy establishing stronger local purchasing preference, first for Los Alamos and next for neighboring cities and counties, would keep local businesses healthier.

Sean’s independent judgment, based upon his own experience living and running a business here, would be an important asset. It may be necessary to form public-private partnerships to improve our business and housing situation, but he will work to ensure that these partnerships provide clear public benefits and don’t unduly enrich the private partners. 

Sean will make an effective Los Alamos County Councilor.

Editor’s note: Readers should do their own fact checking of statements made in letters and opinion pieces.