League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Santa Clara County, CA November 6, 2012 Election
	Rebeca G Armendariz Answers Questions Candidate for Council Member; City of Gilroy

The questions were prepared by the Leagues of Women Voters of Santa Clara County and asked of all candidates for this office.
Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. What experience related to city government would you bring to the City Council?

　　　　I have served on both the Parks and Recreation Commission and Citizens Advisory Commission for the Community Development Block Grants. I have worked on community issues in Gilroy all my life, and have been in the Council Chambers many times to advocate for issues that impact the community. I have a wealth of knowledge on amazing services and resources our local non-profits provide, and have worked with many of those organizations and their partnerships with the City. I have lobbied and organized residents at the City Council, County Board of Supervisors and in Sacramento and support our local non-profits in promoting programs that compensate for the recent service cuts. I also have much experience with bargaining unit negotiations. As a Union Organizer I represent SEIU 521 members in dealings with management, particularly contract bargaining and enforcement. I analyze legislation and budgets, and look for ways tofind savings vs cuts.

2. What concerns are of particular importance to the city and how would you address them?

At 12.4% Gilroy has one of the highest unemployment rates in the County. We need to partner with trade unions, small businesses,Gavilan College and local green, tech and manufacturing industries to create opportunities and prepare our residents and students for the future. Current City leaders, despite having a $26m reserve, have contracted out our public services, cut services for seniors and youth, including much needed intervention and prevention programs. If we want to address the gang and crime problems, the restoration and development of intervention and prevention programs needs to be prioritized.

3. How would you balance the needs of the city as a whole with groups’ interests?

I plan on keeping an "open door" policy to residents and stakeholders on issues that our important to the City. By keeping an open mind and focusing on collaboration I can work with other Councilmembers to find solutions that serve the whole city's interest.

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' statements are presented as submitted. Please answer each question in no more than 400 words. Direct references to opponents are not permitted.

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: October 8, 2012 09:08
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