Candidate for
Council Member; City of Gilroy

Art's City Council agenda:

Revitalize the Downtown- Work with downtown merchants and City Planning Dept. to streamline the permit process. Work with local banks for small business loans or construction loans that will assist property owners in Retrofitting URM Buildings and get them occupied. Encourage more downtown residential occupancy/development. Work with local leaders to support downtown merchants by promoting businesses and the positive experience of shopping downtown.

Smart Growth- Support In-fill projects. Discourage-Residential building outside Specific Plans not zoned for residential. Be conscious of development that impacts schools capacity or requires building more schools.

At risk youth intervention- Gang prevention. Continue to support nonprofits that offer intervention services for at risk youth. Programs that offer youth development by being part of a positive environment, educational support and athletic team participation. Encourage the Gilroy Parks and Recreation Dept. to work with other agencies that offer youth free or reduced fees for programs and services.

Gilroy Strong Neighborhoods- Work with Gilroy Police Dept. and Community Development Dept. to identify and support neighborhood leaders and associations. Build strong neighborhoods that are alternatives to crime and gangs. Obtain grants to fund Gilroy Strong Neighborhoods

Economic Development- Gilroy should be a member of the Silicon Valley Leadership Group that was founded by the leaders of the major Silicon Valley Companies. Give incentives to companies to relocate to Gilroy that offer good paying jobs. Economic Development depends on a population that is educated and trained for higher paying jobs. Companies that consider relocating to Gilroy can partner with Gavilan College and the local high schools that can offer students an educational track to prepare them for these jobs. LEEDS Certified Buildings- I will support that new buildings are LEEDS Certified Buildings. The new library is LEEDS Certified. LEEDS Certified buildings recycle demolished material and the new building meets the specific standard for energy efficiency. This reduces the environmental impact of waste and energy with new buildings.

Statement of ART BARRON, Candidate for City Council, City of Gilroy

Occupation: Program Coordinator - Age: 47

Education and Qualification

My community leadership and extensive civic experience have prepared me to be your next Councilman. As a resident of Gilroy for 18 years my wife and I raised our family here. I believe it is important to be conscious of development and smart growth, especially where it impacts schools and infrastructure. I am a strong supporter of youth services with an emphasis on educational development and intervention. I support economic development and the revitalization of the downtown.

The experience I gained as a Planning Commissioner of four years has prepared me to serve. I have served on several committees and boards including, Housing Advisory Committee, Leadership Gilroy Board and graduate, and a manager for Gilroy Little League.

As a concerned resident I recognized a great need for leadership in a downtown neighborhood. Although, not a downtown resident; I formed a neighborhood association and initiated a neighborhood watch and an annual toy gift exchange for underprivileged children during the holidays. I was a part of the initial Gilroy Community Health Day and Youth Health Summit.

I would appreciate your vote and the opportunity to serve as your next City Councilman.

http://www.barron4gilroy.com