Candidate for
Mayor; City of Modesto

Jobs and the Economy

Modesto is a great place to live, but during these tough economic times, jobs are scarce and running a successful business can be downright difficult. As Mayor, it will be my focus to bring new jobs to our city. We can start with improving our business climate by implementing policies that allow current Modesto businesses invest, expand and grow. We also need to focus on bringing in new business to the area. While there are several challenges facing Modesto, I believe relieving our ailing economy should be our number one priority.

Pension Reform

Modesto, like other public entities, needs pension reform to ensure long term fiscal health. Modesto must be given a menu of options when dealing with city employees that allows for living within our means.

As Mayor, Brad Hawn will work to make sure that the employee contracts protect the taxpayers. He will advocate changing the formula to prevent pension spiking and eliminate pension practices that increase compensation for work that has been completed in the past.

We need to respect the work of our city employees and provide them with retirement options. However, the formula needs to be fair to both the employee and the taxpayer.

Taxes

Our residents pay an abundance of city fees and taxes. While these revenues are necessary for Modesto to provide services like police and fire, residents should not be treated as a bottomless bank account from which funds can be withdrawn. The City of Modesto should be considerate and sympathetic to the high tax rates that the State already imposes on Modesto residents. When presented with budgeting challenges, we must find creative solutions to our financial dilemmas that don't take more money from hard-working taxpayers and families. Infrastructure

As a licensed structural engineer, I have taken pride in addressing the problems and creating solutions for Modesto's infrastructure needs. I am a founding member of Modesto's Citizens Redevelopment Advisory Commission and a former Chairman of the Board of Zoning Adjustment. It is important to me that Modesto continues to grow in a responsible manner that takes into account Modesto's changing needs as well as its rich history and charm. As Mayor, I will make it a goal to continue to work with other entities to bring the best infrastructure services to Modesto. Water

Water is an important issue in Modesto, as it is for the entire San Joaquin Valley. As a structural engineer and City Council member, I understand the economic engine and livelihood it provides for many of our residents. During my time on the Modesto City Council, I am proud to have instituted the North Valley Regional Recycled Water Project, which is a partnership between Modesto, Ceres, Turlock, Stanislaus County and Del Puerto Water District to transport our treated waste water to the water district for us in irrigation, thus bringing 20.000 acres of farmland back into production.

As Mayor, I will continue to look for new and innovative ways that address our Valley's water needs while providing Modesto with a clean and adequate water supply.