Candidate for
Member, City Council; City of Pacific Grove

I believe it is important that we welcome new restaurants and stores to Pacific Grove that will generate much-needed revenue. I believe it is the Council's job to ensure that businesses in Pacific Grove succeed. We should set the conditions for success rather than create obstacles and unnecessary challenges.

Pacific Grove is surrounded by six colleges and universities. I would encourage the political and business leaders in PG to market to the students, faculty, staff, and families associated with these institutions. By attracting these people to Pacific Grove, we open up the possibilities for new stakeholders, volunteers, and intellectual capital in our community.

It is important to recognize that both residents and business owners play a vital role in our community by volunteering on boards and commissions, donating to local causes, caring about our schools and maintaining our property values. This integration is essential to secure the hometown ideal that we all cherish.

When I make decisions, I will strive to put my personal interests aside and do what is in the best interest of the community. I am not interested in only seeking new revenue streams, but I am interested in the future outlook of Pacific Grove. A positive outlook includes cultivating a strong public-private sector relationship.

A great characteristic about Pacific Grove is the level of political involvement by local citizens. Local government is the level of government where we should all be able to make a contribution and make a difference. This is the level of government that should be empowered to address problems on a smaller scale and at a more personal level. Local officials know the needs of the citizens and can provide solutions that are feasible, achievable, and long term. If elected, I hope to fulfill this mandate.