Candidate for
Council Member; City of San Clemente

I am running for City Council because San Clemente needs and deserves strong leadership. We have grown from a small village to a larger village and it is time to unite newer neighborhoods with the established, historic sections of San Clemente to increase citizen involvement, communication and strengthen the community as a whole.

Having long been an active San Clemente resident and business owner, I have made presentations before the Water Board, Planning Commission and City Council. I have participated in various civic projects, served on committees and volunteered countless hours.

I have discussed issues with business owners, shoppers, city officials and residents; and will bring to our council a fresh understanding of San Clemente's workings and needs, along with my knowledge of: financing, business management, real estate, marketing, property management, construction and public relations; as well as expertise in aesthetic areas such as: design, computer graphics and fine art.

Running for council is a natural progression of my involvement, not something I just "opened a door" and decided to do; nor is it in pursuit of some "special interest".

As your councilmember I will represent you the citizens in the best interest of San Clemente.

We all moved here for special reasons, and we recognize the need for true leadership.

We argue, we talk, we rally, we walk, but it all means nothing if we can't preserve our quality of life: clean beaches, water and streets; reduced traffic; great recreational facilities; a strong business economy and balanced development, while retaining our village atmosphere.

These are but a few of the necessary amenities that keep people shopping, dining and using our services, not to mention the positive effect is has on our economy and property values as well.

But like it or not, we have prospered and grown; and along with that comes increased responsibility. We are facing a new era for San Clemente and we need to look beyond our own backyards, and this year's issue, to see the greater picture. It's about citizen involvement, idea sharing, participation, delegation of talents, good management, good judgment and pride in our town.

I'm asking you today, and at November 8's election, to help me help San Clemente by uniting our citizens, from the Pierbowl to Talega, from North Beach to SouthWest, in an all-out effort to become a model community for our nation.

Founder Ole Hanson's vision rings true today - "a place where people can live together more pleasantly than any other place in America."

I will honor our Founder's inspired vision, by working to unite the community while improving upon today's critical issues as we continue to grow, improve and prosper.

As your council member, I will work to reduce bureaucracy and ensure that city government is responsible with our tax dollars. I take a fiscally conservative approach in order to protect taxpayers; and strive to be a "consensus builder" bringing people together to get things done for the good of the entire community.

My philosophy is simple - listen to the people you represent and take a stand. I believe that smaller government is better government because it encourages citizen involvement in the governmental process - the truest and best form of democracy.

Thank you for your interest in this important election. I hope my dream for San Clemente inspires you to vote this November 8th: Mary McMenamin for City Council.

Visit my website at: http://www.scCityCouncil.com