Candidate Statement

By Arne Simonsen

A solid record of experience, action and results.

With the state's financial crisis impacting cities throughout the state, I have worked to bring efficient planning and find innovative solutions without new taxes. Revenues from our growing business and sales tax base are up significantly and this trend will continue.

To improve public safety, we have created 31 new Police Department positions and trained 70 Police Volunteers; sped up street and sidewalk repairs; built a new fire station; and, brought Slatten Ranch, Macy's, Somersville Towne Center and a new Kaiser Hospital to Antioch, with more to come!

I have worked to provide additional money for the Highway 4 Bypass to reduce Brentwood traffic on Lone Tree Way, Hillcrest Avenue, and Deer Valley Road. I have successfully lobbied to move Highway 4 and Vasco Road up the state's priority list.

While there is runaway growth in neighboring communities, I have worked to meter the growth of new homes, tying them directly to traffic improvements, new jobs and new schools. Residential building permits are down 80% and the typical new house contributes about $32,000 for traffic, schools and other infrastructure mitigation.

Sylvia and I have been married for 36 years and we have three grown children and a granddaughter.

I earned my Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of the State of New York and I have worked in both the public and private sectors.

As a retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer and after owning a small business, I know the value of hard work.

As your City Council Member, I represent Antioch residents at the League of California Cities, Tri Delta Transit, East Bay Legislative Committee, Contra Costa Transportation Authority and the San Francisco Water Transit Authority.

I believe in open government and pride myself in being accessible. If you have any questions, please call me at my home + 779-0534 or email SimonsenA@aol.com.