Candidate for
Council Member; City of Azusa

ON THE ISSUES

In these difficult economic times, it is important to ensure that the City does not sacrifice the things that make our community a special place to live and do business. The City must strategically invest its resources to ensure that Azusa remains a prosperous and competitive community without forsaking the quality of life of its residents. If elected, Sandra is committed to embark on a mission to identify and address issues that impact residents, businesses, community health, vitality, and sustained prosperity.

Maintaining Quality of Life:

Azusa faces a series of critical decisions that will decide how our community will grow. We must remain committed to providing and strengthening essential programs (public safety, education, senior services) to insure safe and secure neighborhoods. The residents of Azusa expect and deserve a community that is safe, vibrant, fiscally strong and well managed. If elected, I will find ways to improve services, increase revenue and am committed to taking a conservative financial approach to future administrative and community decisions. Smart leaders drive sustainable economic growth and prosperity for their residents.

Economic Development/Sustainable Growth:

With the elimination of redevelopment in California, our city leaders must have a firm understanding of smart community planning to insure that today's growth does not become tomorrow's burden. I am a strong advocate of downtown redevelopment, and as a former Redevelopment Project Manager, I will create economic development initiatives to bring new business, assist existing businesses and streamline city services. Our community needs more retail and restaurants choices accompanied by private investment and job creation, not a slew of businesses closing their doors due to vacant buildings and underdeveloped lots. Specifically, I will work hard to rebuild and transform downtown Azusa into a thriving commercial district.

Fiscal Responsibility/Government Transparency:

When a City depletes its reserve funds to dangerously low levels resulting in serious cuts and layoffs, it's time to ask questions. "It's your money" and residents have the right to know where their tax dollars are being spent. Unlike the federal government, we can't print money so the excessive spending must stop. Elected officials must be held accountable for establishing budgets that are balance and responsible. If elected, I will work with integrity to strengthen the city's reserves, develop a clear budget process and ensure that the City Council conducts its business in a transparent manner. I promise to always ask the hard questions, demand clear answers and put the interests of our entire community first.