Marin Democratic Party / Endorsement Questionnaire

By David Weinsoff

Endorsement Given: Questions and answers provided to the Marin Democratic Party for their endorsement.

I have been a Democrat since registering to vote in 1976 and have never been a member of any other political party. My initial decision to register as a Democrat was based on my parents and grandparents support of the party dating to Roosevelt's candidacy in 1932. The ideals of the Democratic party then and now + advancing social and economic policies designed to value the qualities of every community member + remain the basis for my unwavering support for Democratic candidates in federal, state, and local elections.

2. My qualification for the Fairfax Town Council.

I have served two terms on the Fairfax Town Council (2005 to present). From the New Year's Eve flood that ravaged our downtown and many creek-side properties shortly after I was elected through the "Great Recession," I have worked collaboratively with my Council colleagues and Town staff to rebuild our damaged infrastructure while ensuring that our budget is in balance and we continue to provide essential public services.

My work on the Council is a continuation of my service to the community. Since moving to Fairfax in 1996, I have worked on a broad range of Town programs and projects, including service as a Planning Commissioner and member of the Fairfax Open Space Committee. Beyond Fairfax's borders, I have been honored to serve on the boards of the Marin Conservation League, Community Action Marin, and currently the Environmental Action Committee of West Marin. Being involved in a diverse set of Town and county activities has provided the opportunity to work with a wide cross-section of Fairfaxians and Marin County residents, providing critical experience to the challenge of governing in a politically-interconnected and robust community such as ours.

3. The major issues facing the Town of Fairfax and how I am addressing them.

• Managing Town finances + we are implementing, through our long-term fiscal planning and strict annual budgeting, a financial structure that ensures we can provide essential municipal services (public safety, planning, administration) within the limits of our modest financial resources;

• Preserving our small town character + we are making decisions and choices, based on the direction outlined in our newly adopted General Plan, that protects our natural environment, promotes our local businesses, and advances our long-term goal of keeping Fairfax the culturally diverse and welcoming community known to generations of established and new residents; and

• Governing effectively + I am proud to be twice-elected to the Fairfax Town Council, a model of effective local government that oversees the work of an extraordinary staff and the dedicated members of our numerous and essential voluntary boards and commissions.