Emanuel On the Issues

By Emanuel Patrascu

In this struggling economy we must focus on the needs of Laguna Beach's small business community. Local governments ought to provide incentives for businesses to grow with over-due regulatory relief. As a small business owner myself, I know that private enterprise, not the government, creates jobs. We all know it is small business owners, not appointed commissioners, who know best how to operate a small business.

Government policies and priorities can make a difference to families, businesses and government at any level. Government has an obligation to act responsibly and fairly when it comes to spending, budget deficits, tax and fiscal policy.

Unfortunately, too many small businesses in Laguna Beach are struggling. Our community is reeling from the pain of closing stores and ultimately the end of small business owners' dreams. If we do not act now, we will be putting the future of Laguna Beach on hold, changing it forever.

One of my top priorities will be to promote policies that create jobs and economic opportunity. I will work with business and community leaders throughout the region to achieve that goal.

TAXES

All of the incumbents voted to increase our property taxes by 11%. Despite this increase, which will set property taxes at the highest rate in Orange County, budget deficits are projected to increase in the foreseeable future.

I oppose any additional tax increases.

I will balance the budget through fiscal restraint and economic development.

I am committed to limited government ,one that takes as few dollars as possible from hard working taxpayers. Throughout my career, I have worked against tax increases, fought to curb wasteful government spending, and supported tax relief for businesses and individuals to generate economic growth and create jobs.

PUBLIC SAFETY

The rise in home and car burglaries is unacceptable. I will do whatever it takes to put an end to this alarming trend.

I will ensure that Laguna Beach continues to be a safe place to live. I will increase foot patrols by law enforcement while creating a working relationship between law enforcement and the community. I will make public safety along with fully staffing the police department my priority.

The homeless problem must be addressed in a manner that will distribute the cost regionally, while respecting the dignity of all. Simply put, Laguna Beach cannot bear the financial burden along with public safety concerns for housing the entire county's transient population.

EDUCATION

I am a graduate of the University of California, Riverside where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration followed by a Master of Arts in Political Science. I believe strongly in giving each and every child in Laguna Beach access to a high quality education.

I have been a proactive participant in a "Back to School" program that provides backpacks, school supplies, shoes and clothing to 100 low income children in Laguna Beach.

As your representative, I will fight to expand after-school activities, arts programs, and slots for gifted and talented children. Additionally, I will work to provide assistance to families with special needs children, ensuring these students receive the services to which they are entitled.

PROTECTING OUR ENVIRONMENT FOR OUR FUTURE

Laguna Beach is blessed with a magnificent coastline. It is a gift that we must be committed to preserving, protecting, and enhancing for ourselves and our posterity. What's more, tourists trek from across the globe to see this precious treasure; it is our economic engine. As your Councilman, I will not waiver in my commitment to our coastline.

REFORMING GOVERNMENT

Throughout my career I have spearheaded transparency in government, such as city budgets and campaign finance, and have been a consistent voice for reform. I support tougher laws to limit the influence of special interests.

I believe that change reinvigorates communities and is vital to the political process. When elected, I will self-impose term limits; not serve more than two terms.

QUALITY OF LIFE

Whether it's keeping our local libraries open or conserving vital services for senior citizens, you can count on me to protect our quality of life. I understand that the issues that matter most are often those that hit closest to home, like fighting neighborhood noise and protecting the environment.