Candidate for
Council Member; City of Tracy

I believe that promoting economic development and bringing jobs to Tracy is our top priority. While the current economy and soft housing market have adversely affected our community, as they have the entire nation, there are and will be economic opportunities that can greatly benefit Tracy buy bringing jobs and investment to town. Right now, those opportunities have shown a propensity to go elsewhere. We must change that, and soon.

The City of Tracy is perceived by the business and investment community as a tough place to deal with. High fees, costly delays in getting permits and approvals, and a general not-business-friendly environment are frequently cited as reasons to consider other cites for new business projects. With those projects, go jobs.

Although I am deeply committed to strong public safety programs, maintaining city infrastructure and providing quality public facilities for our citizens, all of that will be difficult without a solid financial foundation on which to fund city services.

While there are certainly cost cutting measures that can be taken to stretch Tracy's budget, the ultimate solution is to improve our business climate to encourage investment in our city. We are ideally located, our work force is highly skilled and well educated, and we are a safe, quality community. We must take advantage of these outstanding assets and change those practices, policies and perceptions that are discouraging investment in Tracy.