Press Release

By Michael E Phillips

I do not enter this race as a politician and my only "special interest" is that I am a 30-year resident of this community who wishes to serve in the best interest of my fellow citizens. I have a total of four generations living in South Lake Tahoe, ranging from my school age nieces and nephew to my grandparents.

When something is important enough, you make time for it. My position as a council member would be top priority. I am the service manager at Lake Tahoe Auto Village. I have the flexibility needed for the job. To date, I have attended all meetings and workshops for my current obligations. Other candidates have stated that they have more time than anyone else. I suggest that being retired or self-employed does not necessarily create a person with an abundance of time. We all have the same amount of time, it's how we use it. Time is not an obstacle for me.

I would like to concentrate on affordable housing. I see it happening already that the people who work here cannot afford to live here. With a depleted work force, the services offered by this community to locals and visitors, alike, will suffer. Do not be fooled, our people are part of our infrastructure.

I support the plan for curbs, gutters, and sidewalks. I want to see that our crosswalks are repainted. We need to first support our core services -- police, fire, road maintenance -- before we dole out money to "contract agencies."

I am concerned that our city finances were proposed approximately four million dollars over budget, especially with the D2000 budget cuts that were undertaken as a way to avoid our this. Fortunately, we have a new City Manager who appears to "hold hands" with no one and can make the tough decisions that may balance the budget. Unfortunately, the two incumbents were part of this process, yet cannot explain how we ended up in the "red." There needs to be greater accountability.

As for redevelopment, I am disappointed with the delays, however the project must be completed. I support the redevelopment and/or rehabilitation of existing buildings. We need to be careful of the "if we build it, they will come" mentality. If we cannot afford it, we should wait.

As you can see, I am not interested in one single issue or agenda. I am concerned with all issues that affect this community. While I have the good fortune of knowing most of the other candidates and feel they are fine people, I am the best candidate for City Council. I am direct, honest, and dedicated. I will learn all aspects of the position quickly. I vow to explore all sides of the issues and make decisions based on merit. I will listen with an open mind. I have been paying close attention to the issues and needs of this city and am ready to serve.

I respectfully ask for your vote of confidence.

Very truly yours,

Michael Phillips