Eager to seem civic-minded, they often don't ask tough questions or challenge policy proposals couched in positive rhetoric. These traits were on display in Austin. The conference, by contrast, assumed that smart, well-meaning people will agree on the right set of policies. Rather did not specify what measures she had in mind. She was thus able to smuggle a lengthy policy agenda into some well-chosen vague language.
Sprawl means spacious houses with yards and flexible drives to work.
Sprawl is, in other words, exactly the sort of suburban life that attracts families to Austin. Her agenda is controversial, not simply a matter of good intentions and smart planning. The vague polls didn't fool everyone. You didn't have to do any thinking. I didn't think they learned anything.