Redding race will give voters clear choices

The lineup isn't fixed yet, but this fall's Redding City Council race is turning into a juicy election that puts a real mix of visions before the voters -- you know, real choices. Incumbents Ken Murray and Dick Dickerson are both seeking re-election, and both have long political resumes as relative moderates (though Murray's mouth is often anything but moderate). But they also have an eclectic set of possible challengers. Among them: Gary Cadd, an outspoken regular at council meetings who argues the city needs to take a more tight-fisted approach, focus on basics like infrastructure, and stop raising impact fees. Councilman Patrick Jones is backing Cadd, saying he sees a like-minded potential ally on the council. Jim McDilda, Redding's own father Christmas, whose dazzling light displays overwhelmed his neighborhood until he... [read full story]