Candidate for
Member, City Council; City of Sierra Madre

Enforcing Fiscal Discipline

As a business professional managing over 300 employees and a budget of $20 million, I will work to enforce fiscal discipline. The City of Sierra Madre must learn to live within its means without tax increases. The city's unfunded pension liability is a growing problem that must be solved. I will work cooperatively with city employees to find a solution that minimizes the burden on taxpayers.

Limit and Control Development

To protect home values and our quality of life, Sierra Madre must limit and control development. I will advocate for ordinances, zoning codes and building regulations that will prevent our neighborhoods from being overrun with homes oversized for their parcels or homes not in harmony with their neighborhoods. I will also protect our hillsides and canyons from development and strictly enforce our Hillside Management Zone Ordinance.

Keep Downtown Neighborhood Friendly

Our downtown should be a distinctive place that nurtures our sense of community and small town character. It should be a comfortable place that is attractive, interesting and safe with places to sit and linger. I support a pedestrian friendly environment and bicycle safe streets.

Strengthen Neighborhood Schools

The city should be more proactive in supporting and working collaboratively with our neighborhood schools. I will work cooperatively with the PUSD to make sure Sierra Madre receives its fair share of resources. I believe we all benefit when we have good quality neighborhood schools.

Public Safety

Sierra Madre must remain a safe place for families and seniors. I will work proactively with our police department and community members to effectively address our problems. Of particular concern are serious crimes committed by nonresidents. I will also work to promote fire safety in our canyons and hillsides.

Water

Historically, Sierra Madre was able to obtain adequate and quality water from local groundwater wells and natural spring tunnels. Because these supplies have run dangerously low, Sierra Madre now imports a portion of its water. During the last ten years, Sierra Madre has spent $20 million to improve its water infrastructure. Yet, significant repairs are still necessary. The funding has been a combination of Federal Grants, loans from other water districts, and bonds (borrowed dollars).

As the only candidate with direct and successful experience in obtaining Federal grants, I will work with city staff to maximize funding from Grant Sources with the goal of eliminating Sierra Madre's debts.

Neighborhood Protection

I will work to protect our hillsides, canyons, home views and wildlife. I am committed to maintaining Sierra Madre's small town atmosphere.