Candidate for
Councilmember; City of Santa Barbara

Small Business Owner Since 1977

"My wife, Peggy Jo, and I own two long-time small businesses Downtown. We are keenly aware of the effects of the economic downturn and the pressures it puts on all members of our community. It is important to support local businesses that will be the engine of our recovery." -Grant House

Fiscal Responsibility

The policies of the last four years have made our city stronger and better able to cope with the current economic downturn than many comparable municpalities in California. I am proud of my record as a fiscal watchdog. As we move forward we will:

Invest in our infrastructure, both public and private. Backfill policy reserves.

Continue to use taxpayer money wisely by leveraging local funds to achieve State and Federal grants for long-deferred capital programs.

Environmental Protection and Sustainability

Reduce Cost, Consumption and Waste

A few accomplishments of the last 4 years:

Adoption: Ahwahnee Water Principles for Resource Efficient Land Use

Energy-efficient Building Code and Santa Barbara 2030 Solar Panels installation at the Cacique Fire Station, the Maintenance Yard, new Air Terminal, and new Rental Car Facility.

Local and Regional Transit, Flex Work, and Ride-Sharing to reduce time wasted commuting.

Community Safety

As we saw twice in just the last year, major wildfires can strike at any time.

We must cooperate with our regional partners to:

Invest in preventative efforts

Educate people about defensible space, safe evacuation routes, and reverse 911 systems

Make preparations for the next disaster in coordination with state, federal and non-profit services. The City's Wildland Fire Plan is now a regional model.

Invest in young people for a bright future.

Meet the needs of seniors.

I have always ensured that the needs of the men and women of our police and fire departments have the tools they need to do their jobs.