In April 2009, the council was asked to consider joining other local jurisdictions in funding a study to determine the optimum usage of the fairgrounds property. Because the property abuts Kelso, the city would benefit from redevelopment in that area. David encouraged the council to participate in the funding, and his position was supported by the TDN editorial board.

Looking ahead to the growth that Kelso is experiencing, David advocated increasing staffing in the planning department in this TDN article. The development of key projects in Kelso has been challenged by staffing shortages.

• Economic growth will be the engine that moves Kelso into a new, even more prosperous future. The focus on supporting development should be a significant factor in most decisions the city faces.
  ACTION: I participate on the board of the Cowlitz Economic Development Council, an organization that helps attract new industry to the area.

• Development can only flourish when the city consistently participates with developers in streamlining the regulatory process.
  ACTION: I have worked with and on behalf of several developers and property owners to address their concerns with city administration.

When the city first considered using its riverfront property for sports fields, David suggested that it may be advantageous to reserve the parcel for development, speculating that the value to the city could exceed $1 million. Staff had estimated the value at approximately $400,000. Exactly one year after the initial story, the city did receive offers from developers wishing to purchase the prime property for condominium development, and the eventual sales price? It was in excess of $1 million.