League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Santa Clara County, CA November 4, 2008 Election
	Pat Waite Answers Questions Candidate for Council Member; City of San Jose; Council District 8

The questions were prepared by the Leagues of Women Voters of Santa Clara County and asked of all candidates for this office.
Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. What experience related to city government would you bring to the City Council?

My extensive corporate experience will translate well into the business of city government. I have over twenty years of experience working with large, complex budgets, and, at over $3 billion annually, San Jose has a large, complex budget. As a 23+ year citizen of San Jose, I have first hand knowledge of and experience with the issues facing our city. We must achieve financial stability while improving community services. I'm committed to make this happen.

2. What concerns are of particular importance to the city and how would you address them?

1) Quality of Life. This is a wonderful city. But we need to work hard to improve it. Affordable housing, well maintained roads and reasonable traffic, safe neighborhoods, and a more friendly business environment are important aspects of great cities. Our challenge is to deliver these, while at the same time balancing the budget, without increasing the tax burden on our citizens. 2) Smart growth. We need to ensure that additional development, whether industrial or residential, is consistent with a long term plan to create a balanced budget and fosters a high quality of life. 3) Educational Support. A good education is the foundation to a successful life. It opens doors and minimizes the effects of bad influences. We need to focus on providing solid after school support and activities for our children.

3. How would you balance the needs of the City as a whole with groups' interests?

I will focus my decision making on what is best for the quality of life for our citizens. I will encourage significant input from my constituents in order to make the best decisions for the district, and for San Jose.

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' responses are not edited or corrected by the League.

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: July 31, 2008 17:21
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