Candidate Statement

By Shawn E Marshall

The following is Shawn Marshall's candidate statement which will be published in the Mill Valley Herald during the week of October 24, 2005.

MAKING CHOICES. In this year's election, there are three well-qualified candidates for two seats on the City Council. That's a good position to be in, but it doesn't present many obvious choices. All three candidates agree on the need to maintain our small-town character, deal with affordable housing, practice sound fiscal management, further emergency preparedness, and mitigate parking and traffic congestion. Our approaches might be different, but our positions are similar. How then, to discern between us?

DIPLOMACY MATTERS. Let's peel the onion a bit and consider the intangibles of service on the Council. In my view, the qualities of respect, teamwork, and diplomacy are every bit as important as one's position on an issue or list of past accomplishments. These qualities are impossible to see on paper and hard to hear in one-minute sound bites. They are defined by who we are as individuals -- our work and communication styles and ability to navigate sometimes difficult situations in ways that are fair and productive. My recent experience as Chair of the Bayfront Park Masterplan Advisory Committee offers one example of my leadership style and highlighted the importance of listening, respect for differing views, doing one's homework, and ultimately, making decisions in the best interest of the whole community.

ENDORSEMENTS TELL A STORY. Perhaps the Marin Independent Journal said it best in its editorial entitled "Marshall, Berman in Mill Valley" (10/10/05). It read, "What sets the candidates apart is how they would complement the talents and expertise of the other three Council members." That's important from a couple of angles -- professional background and expertise to be sure, AND how well we'll work with existing council members. I believe these are the reasons both retiring council members Dennis Fisco and Clifford Waldeck have so enthusiastically endorsed my campaign. These gentlemen, and others on the Council have worked with each of the candidates on City-related matters. They understand the job better than anyone, and have assessed our performance over the years. Their endorsements, along with those of Marin County Supervisor Charles McGlashan, and hundreds of other Mill Valley citizens are hard earned and I believe, speak volumes.

I WELCOME YOUR QUESTIONS. In closing, I invite you to learn more about my background, positions, and personal qualities. I would be delighted to chat with you over the phone, invite you to a candidate coffee event, and/or send you an e-mail outlining my campaign goals and priorities. I can be reached at 389-5005 or by e-mail at smarshall05@sbcglobal.net. Thank you so much for your commitment to Mill Valley and for your consideration of my candidacy. Please vote on November 8th!