League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Santa Clara County, CA November 6, 2012 Election
	Benjamin T. "Ben" Cogan Answers Questions Candidate for Santa Clara County Open Space Authority Director; District 4

The questions were prepared by the Leagues of Women Voters of Santa Clara County and asked of all candidates for this office.
Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. What experience or training do you have which would help the District meet its goals?

As a BSA Eagle scout I understand the outdoors. As an automotive technician I diagnose and solve problems. I will apply my love for the outdoors and my experience solving problems to the issues our district is facing.

2. What is your evaluation of the financial condition of the District?

Open Space Authority uses their funding on easements, the acquisition of new land, and the development of parks and trails. The total balance in the OSA account at the end of the previous fiscal year was almost 2 Million dollars. That is 2 million dollars that could go to the community. It is important that we reevaluate the role of government. I would like to analyze the spending and necessity of the land said being preserved. My goal is to find a solution that saves money, protects open space, and provides Americans a way to own land without destroying open space. My goal is to save the taxpayers money and protect property rights.

3. In what ways would you collaborate with other governmental entities and community groups to achieve the District's goals?

I will preserve nature and preserve property rights. I will host community meetings and gather opinions from the public to determine the District's goals. My main collaboration is with the people of Santa Clara County. I will collaborate with any governmental entities and groups that meet the public District's goals.

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' statements are presented as submitted. Please answer each question in no more than 400 words. Direct references to opponents are not permitted.

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: October 16, 2012 05:10
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