Reasons for running

By James Oliver "Jim" Hyatt

Make Calimesa the best place to live for my children and grandchildren.

Prior to the incorporation of Calimesa,I served as Chairman of the County Service Area 74, which designed and built the Norton Younglove Senior Center.

Currently, I am a member of the Yucaipa Valley Kiwanis Club, Calimesa Cultural & Performing Arts Association and Friends of the Calimesa Library.

I am running for Calimesa City Council for many reasons. These include; bringing stability to the city, solid planning for future libraries and parks, funding for senior needs and the Senior Center, representation on the school board for Calimesa students with only one district for the city, promote business in Calimesa, hold developers to high standards of growth that will not impact current residents.

The way to promote financial stability is through common sense. Do not spend more than we take in! I would start this process by asking for a spending and hiring freeze with a budget review.

The city is behind in planning and funding parks and libraries. The funding for these facilities are available from many sources once Calimesa has sites and planning in place.

Historically, Calimesa has been neglected, in terms of facility locations and representation, by its school districts. By electing School Board members by district, rather than at-large, Calimesa would have local input and accountability in school decisions. Calimesa is split between two school districts, neither of which has built a usable school inside city limits. This needs to change.

It is essential to support and promote business in Calimesa. A friendly city staff that is eager to help our local businesses is necessary.

I have the interest, the time and the experience to improve the safety and quality of life in Calimesa. It is important to me to make this city the best place to live for my children and grandchildren.