Arcadia's P.R.I.D.E

By Paul Cheng

If elected, some of the major issues/changes I would address as a priority.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my views about Arcadia. As the only candidate to have worked as a Deputy City Attorney, Prosecutor, and Mediator, building consensus through creative solutions and leadership is vital to our city. As one who loves this city, I believe it is time to return to the core values and support the institutions that have made this a remarkable place to live, work, and raise a family. Challenging times have driven me to serve Arcadia through public service. Below are five (5) issues that I believe we must focus on in the next few years.

P * Preserve Arcadia's General Plan + The assets we have in this city are incomparable with any other entity. We are a bedroom community; a diamond in Los Angeles County. We must stand firm against uncontrolled growth.

R * Reduce Traffic Congestion + Revamping our street lights is crucial to giving Arcadians the quality of life we deserve. Diverting trucks from smaller streets would also improve congestion. North Santa Anita above Foothill is a classic example. Having large trucks take alternative routes would lessen the need to repave the roads and allow for concision in travel.

I * Increase Public Safety + Our local police and fire departments have been doing a superb job. Nonetheless, crime has been a problem in Arcadia. (i.e. 99 Ranch Plaza, home invasions, gangs in schools). They need our support. We can begin neighborhood safety by restarting our Neighborhood Watch Programs.

D * Decrease Unnecessary City Expenses - The State of California is in a fiscal conundrum. The City of Arcadia is no different. Both are running at a loss. The concept is simple. We are spending more than we earn. We must create a Finance Commission made of citizens that will serve as a watchdog for city finances. They will monitor city spending and provide a second pair of eyes where improvements can be made.

E * Encourage Citizen Participation - We are blessed to have citizens that believe in giving back to the community. To keep our vibrant city going we need more citizen participation. We need to create a Youth Commission that can directly work with the City Council, Police, and Fire departments to communicate their needs and their concerns. Doing so creates ownership and gives them an opportunity to serve.

Should you have any questions or comments please let me know as expeditiously as possible. My goal is be an extension of the citizens so your input is of vital importance. I welcome your ideas and look forward to meeting and discussing the choices and challenges the City of Arcadia faces. My cell phone is (626) 202-5120 or you can e-mail me at paul@friendsofpaulcheng.com. Please remember to vote on April 13, 2010.

Very Truly Yours,

Paul Cheng