League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Santa Clara County, CA November 4, 2014 Election
	Karen Hardy Answers Questions Candidate for Council Member; City of Santa Clara; Seat 2

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 am very fortunate as I feel I have a lot to offer council, given I have been on both the Planning and Historical and Landmark commissions. Along side these commissions I also have been a part of the committee that reviews all architecture for new projects. I have lived in the city nearly 30 years and am married to my best friend over 32 years. I am committed to the well-being of our community.

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

I am concerned that development in the city is not harmonious with existing neighborhoods. We should use city resources with prudence, because good city services are important to all residents. I believes all residents should be treated with respect when they contact city officials and City Council.

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

I believe that all members of the public need to be treated with respect. In recent times city council has seen the need to only give residents 1 minute to talk. I believe we need to allow our 1st amendment Right to freedom of speech be extended to the maximum as per the Brown act, which states 3 minutes. I also believe we need more open government, more open meetings and limited closed session meetings for City Council. Transparency is talked about lightly in our City, there is much evidence to show that deals are done behind closed doors, sometimes with a select few residents. Bringing back Open Government and Town Hall meetings will be a great asset to this community that has been locked out of some major decisions that are affecting our traffic, density, and quality of life.

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' statements are presented as submitted. The answer to each question should be limited to 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: September 22, 2014 19:00
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