League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Santa Clara County, CA November 6, 2012 Election
	Mike Kasperzak Answers Questions Candidate for Council Member; City of Mountain View

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 related to city government would you bring to the City Council?

I have 12 years of elected service and have served as Mayor twice. Additionally, I have been actively involved with both the League of California Cities and the National League of Cities where I have gained valuable insights and experience on the issues facing cities as well as valuable leadership skills.

2. What concerns are of particular importance to the city and how would you address them?

The lack of affordable housing continues to be a daunting problem, especially as the State dismantles programs that have traditionally helped cities meet affordable housing needs. The community has repeated said how important a diverse community is, but our diversity is threatened because of the high cost of housing. I will continue to support our Below Market Rate Housing Program, housing impact fees on commercial development which bring new employees creating more demand for housing, and a strong rental housing market.

3. How would you balance the needs of the city as a whole with groups’ interests?

We represent the City as a whole, and my belief is that Council Members should do what is in the best interests of the City as whole. That can lead to more significant negative impacts to some. It is important to minimize the negative impacts as much as possible and ensure that the community benefits are as broad as possible and are needed. Additionally, it I have found with experience that concerns that are voiced before a decision is made do not usually materialize, or are not as significant as had been feared.

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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 12, 2012 19:46
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