LETTER TO THE CONTRA COSTA TIMES

By Stewart Rine

THE TIMES WROTE AN EDITORIAL CALLING ME A "FINE CANDIDATE," SO I WROTE THEM A THANK YOU NOTE WHICH INCLUDES MY ISSUES

Thank you for your recent editorial of October 26, 2006 in which you stated that I was a "fine candidate."

As you know my positions on the issues are as follows:
1. Both incumbents, Michael Harris and Terri Williamson, have each taken $1000.00, from the IBEW union, which was the main labor beneficiary, for the controversial wi fi system and the monitoring system for City Hall. Spending $400,000 for a Wi-Fi system and $70,000 to install a monitoring system for City Hall were expensive mistakes in my opinion. These large campaign donations look like kickbacks. When they took this money, I doubt if either incumbent realized who the IBEW was. In politics, appearances matter. These $1000. 00 donations have the appearance of impropriety and should be returned.

2. The incumbents failed to obtain the Oak Park School site for a flood control basin and shorted street upkeep by $1.3 million, despite the fact that we have an $18 million annual city budget.

3. I have spoken to College Park High's Principal who informs me that the school is still overcrowded. I pledge to do everything in my power to keep our "grey" area kids going to College Park High.

I have not seen you promote the second debate which will be televised on October 28 at 3:00 P.M.. and November 3, 2006 at 6:00 P.M. This is the only debate that featured all four candidates. The first hour is a little dull but it picks up in the last half hour of this 90 minute debate. The first debate will be televised on October 31 at 9:30 P. M. Kinda scary.

Lastly, I shall seriously consider your editorial suggestion that I serve on the Planning Board, whatever happens on election day. Thank you again for your kind encouragement.

STEWART RINE, CANDIDATE for PLEASANT HILL CITY COUNCIL