Renewing my Commitment

By Mary Ann Lutz

Once again, Monrovia is at the crossroads of change. We are leaping into the 21st century embracing the growth, progress, and changes that define the issues facing Southern California. We have taken this leap with an involved citizenry and good municipal leadership. We have a choice, to be a bystander in the world around us or take a hold of the reins and make intelligent choices based on our core values.

As a Monrovian and City Council Member, I proudly support Measure L, the Library initiative which will appear on our ballot on March 6th. Monrovia is ready and deserves to have a library that will meet our current and future the needs.

As a member of the City Council, I have built a reputation for reasoned decision making and collaborative partnerships like those with the Monrovia Unified School District and Monrovia Chamber of Commerce. Monrovians expect fiscal responsibility, during my tenure we have maintained a balanced budget, and set a course for reserve and capital improvement savings. I support and encourage the process underway for the Hillside Preserve Management Plan. It is my belief that progress that is planned will best meet our needs, and our City Council has worked together, striving to protect our current neighborhoods while continuing to improve our community through appropriate development. I believe it is our responsibility to move our community toward a healthy, green environment while balancing our economic responsibilities. I also support the extension of the Gold Line through Monrovia; a major focus for not only our city and San Gabriel Valley but for all of Southern California.

John Donne said, "No man is an island," and similarly, no council member acts alone. I'm proud to be a member of such an active and supportive City Council. Our team -- Mayor Rob Hammond, Council Members Tom Adams, Joe Garcia, Dan Kirby and I -- has five very distinct voices with often differing opinions. We respect our differences, and share an excellent working relationship that considers all views to find collaborative results. I hope you will join me in supporting both Mayor Rob Hammond and Council Member Tom Adams in their reelection bid to further this collaborative vision for our community.

I welcome your comments about this election and issues facing Monrovia. Feel free to call me at (626) 303-1113 and visit my website, http://www.LutzforMonrovia.com. While there, you can learn more about my campaign, offer your endorsement, make a donation and sign up to volunteer.

Four years ago I told you I was a doer, not afraid to jump in and pull my weight. I have done my level best to do just that. As I recommit my pledge to serve, I ask you to recommit your support and vote for my reelection to the Monrovia City Council on March 6, 2007.