Candidate for
Council Member; City of Galt

Overall purpose for running:

I am running for Galt City Council because I believe I can provide the stability and unity this council needs as we face what may be the toughest economic period our city will face. I will take a community approach to problem solving, not governed by ego or power, but a sincere desire to make the next four years far better than the last four years. I am a businesswoman, a Mom, and a long time resident of Galt, making me uniquely qualified to make economic decisions that are logical and caring.

I ran for a council seat in the November 2004 election and avoided the mudslinging, character assasination and back door dealing that went on. Although I lost, I plan on running the same kind of grassroots, honest campaign that highlights my talents and doesn't tear down the others who are running.

Many of the issues we were facing four years ago, still exist today. We are constantly besieged by developers who care more about profit than community; we still have not done enough to retain the businesses we already have in Galt or bring in enough businesses to sustain our local economy; we are not doing enough to bring attention to our horrible overpass conditions; and we still have much room for improvement when it comes to safety and the future of our youth.

A bedroom community cannot support city services. The city must become more fiscally responsible while working within its budget. We need to develop a business-friendly environment which will strengthen our local economy, create new jobs and increase tax revenue without raising taxes or fees. We need to use a common sense approach towards growth without jeopardizing our city's charm.

The city should cut costs before raising our sales tax. How will we attract new businesses to Galt when our tax rate will be higher than neighboring cities? Increasing local taxes will unfairly burden those who can least afford it. Families in this community are already paying higher costs for city services, gas and groceries, more are facing unemployment and foreclosure; and experiencing falling home values.

I work in the private sector, in the building industry. I know what we have to do to run lean. I have great admiration for our business leaders who run within a budget, save for the down times, and expect those who work for them to give one hundred percent to achieve success. I plan to take what I have been taught to work for the citizens of Galt. The people of Galt can trust in me to spend their money like they do - watching every cent, and making sure every dollar is well spent.

I look forward to representing the citizens of this town and building a fiscally healthy and vibrant community.