Candidate for
Council Member; City of Morgan Hill

Being raised in New England, I grew up with a view of government as an positive tool intended to help "We the People" lead our lives. I'm running for City Council because I want to provide that kind of leadership in our town. Like you, I love the small-town feel of Morgan Hill. I want to see that maintained as our city grows.

One of my personal objectives is to include all residents in the decision-making processes, so that we have a truly representative democracy. In my professional career, I have focussed on team-oriented solutions to complicated problems. I like to gather input from all concerned parties and work towards collaborative, comprehensive, and permanent solutions. I work well with others, communicate well, and analyze data effectively. I believe this is a skillset that would be very valuable in the City Council.

Government can't do anything positive unless the people both want it, and are willing to pay for it. Governments earn money by the consent of the governed, and spend it based on perceptions of what the people want. My objectives on the council are to focus on balanced budgeting, meaning paying attention to both the income and the expenses.

• Income: we need to look at additional sources of revenue, but not additional personal taxes, so this logically leads to expanded opportunities for business. answering the questions "what kinds of business", "where", and "when" will determine whether we grow into a Saratoga-type town, or a Gilroy-type. Your input is needed!
• Expenses: Our budget is a clear example of what we value, because projects are funded in a priority manner. Everything is a trade-off - watering parks vs more police officers vs new fire stations vs subsidized housing etc. I'd like to make sure our budget reflects the real priorities of our people. Personally, I'd like to see expanded access for residents to local recreational facilities, and improved social support services. Nothing comes free, however, so there are some difficult decisions ahead. Again, your input is needed!

Thank you for your attention, and please remember to VOTE on Election Day. If you're not already registered to vote, you can do so on line at the non-partisan website http://www.declareyourself.org/index.php - do it now, every vote counts!