Candidate for
Member, City Council; City of Hawthorne

Biography

Olivia Valentine is running for office because she will be an effective advocate for making Hawthorne a destination city in the South Bay. A supporter of economic growth through business development, Olivia will continue to expand a friendly climate to attract new businesses. She will encourage partnering with businesses to implement the "Town Center" model; which has been successfully used to revitalize downtown areas in communities such as Athens and Lennox.

Mrs. Valentine has served on the Hawthorne Planning Commission and presently serves as a board member of the Chamber of Commerce. She has been a board member the Holly Park Home Owner's Association since 2004 and served twice as President; her most recent term ending this year. Olivia is actively involved in other Hawthorne organizations such as the Economic Development Council, the Rotary Club, the Kiwanis Club, and the Women's Club. For her dedication to the city of Hawthorne, State Senator Rod Wright honored her as his district's Woman of the Year.

A strong supporter of law enforcement, Olivia presented a petition to the City, signed by over 60 homeowners, strongly supporting the Air-55 police helicopter. She has worked closely with the Hawthorne Police Department through Neighborhood Watch and CHAT programs. Valentine believes the best deterrent to crime is a comprehensive plan which begins economic development, job creation, and improved law enforcement.

Prior to her retirement, she represented the FAA as a prosecutor in many cases including enforcement and violations of the Federal Aviation Regulations. Olivia also defended the FAA in many employment cases. The cases involved FAA personnel who were filing charges of discrimination against the FAA and/or its management.

Since retirement from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Mrs. Valentine continues in litigation for aviation cases, arbitration, and mediation. Olivia is certified with the American Arbitration Association, FINRA, and the United Stated Postal Service. Her negotiating skills maintain a very high settlement rate, making her experienced in handling matters of conflict and negotiation.