CONCORD, CA (June 3, 2025) — The title says it all. For some folks, it might even bring to mind the classic Clint Eastwood Western “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.”

Great stuff. I grew up watching those movies with my dad, and every now and then, I’ll throw one on – not just for entertainment, but to remember him and that time in my life.

I was born and raised in Concord, back in December 1965. It was (and still is) a wonderful place to grow up. We spent our days riding bikes all over – from Concord High to Sunvalley Mall, and even up Mt. Diablo on our BMX bikes. We explored the trails on both sides of Lime Ridge and behind what’s now Cal State East Bay. There was always something new to discover.

Concord still offers so much: a wonderful trail system, open space, great parks and plenty of community pools to enjoy this time of year.

But over the decades, I’ve noticed some changes – which leads me to “the bad.” One big issue is the growing amount of trash on our streets, roads, parks and public areas. It’s frustrating to see couches dumped on roadsides or litter scattered in places we used to be proud of.

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Sure, there are folks out there who just don’t care – but I believe there are more good people who do. I’ve decided to do a little more myself: picking up trash around my neighborhood and workplace, bagging it and disposing of it properly. It may seem like a small thing, but if more of us pitch in, it could make a real difference.

Honestly, in my 59 years, I’ve never seen as much trash and debris along the streets and the Canal Trail as I have lately.

Then there’s “the ugly” – the neglected, vacant retail spaces that dot our city. It’s time we ask: What’s the plan? These eyesores have been sitting around for far too long. I think it’s up to us to speak up, to attend City Council meetings, and to give our elected officials both guidance and support to address these lingering problems.

I get that it’s a delicate balance. We don’t want to unfairly burden landlords or business owners. But as a local resident, I know I’d much rather shop at a place that’s clean, well-kept and alive with community spirit.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but we are a smart, capable community. Among us are great ideas and potential fixes – we just need to share them. From my experience attending City Council meetings, I know that our local leaders do listen – especially when residents respectfully present ideas that make sense for all of us as taxpayers.

Let’s take care of the good, work to fix the bad and speak up about the ugly – together.

The city’s link to report issues is a great tool at www.cityofconcord.org/559/Report-a-Problem.

City officials are doing their best to provide services for us, but there is no way they can do it on their own. I encourage everyone to get out there and discover the amazing opportunities available right here in our city. If possible, support local businesses by doing your business in Concord. It’s one of the best ways to help our community thrive.

For more information about the businesses and organizations that make Concord great, and to learn about the benefits of becoming a member, visit the Concord Chamber of Commerce at www.concordchamber.com.