Laura Hoffmeister Concord Council Member -

By Laura Hoffmeister

Proven Leadership

Worked hard to maintain services with balanced budgets. Maintained Police patrols (crime is down 6%); added police dispatchers and school resource officers; continued the downtown music and farmers market programs; maintained operations of the Senior Center, Library, parks and recreations centers; improved Concord Pavilion performances without taxpayer subsidies; established free senior mid-day bus rides; recognition's honoring military service persons.

Created economic development strategies to attract and retain businesses and jobs, and improve property values. Businesses are investing in our community, providing needed jobs. Established self-funded auto dealer and hotel marketing programs. Continued street beautification programs, street sweeping and paving programs, to improve property values.

Ensured service reductions had minimal impact to the overall quality of life in Concord. I've made difficult decisions. State takeaways of over $33 million, plus the recession, resulted in $18 million in cuts, 25% staff reduction, and employees paying their share of retirement and health care costs increases. Expanded volunteer programs citywide: hundreds of citizens volunteering thousands of hours, saving the City $500,000 annually.

Prepared Concord for Economic Recovery. Updated City General Plan, Downtown Plans, Infrastructure Replacement Plan, Development Code. The Base Reuse Plan ensures 65% open space, preserves hillsides, places future businesses and jobs by BART station.

More needs to be done. My experienced leadership is needed to address the key issues: maintaining and enhancing public services in a continued environment of limited financial resources.

My priorities: recruit and retain businesses and jobs; maintain essential services, including public safety, street maintenance, recreation, neighborhood preservation, senior and youth programs.

I will continue to support open, transparent public outreach and input, and treat you, your views and concerns with respect and integrity.

It has been a pleasure serving you these past four years, and I would be honored to receive your continued support and vote.

Laura Hoffmeister