Candidate for
Council Member; City of Folsom

If elected to the Folsom City Council,I will strive to improve the quality of life and community spirit that sets our city apart from the rest.

Folsom's immediate concern is to remain fiscally healthy during tough economic times, without impacting high standards of safety, service and education. Staying within our means through prudent fiscal planning, and finding innovative ways to reduce expenditures and streamline processes in order to offer the same levels of service more efficiently is essential.

Taking care of our business community is equally important, at home and throughout the Sacramento region. Consumer spending and job growth are at a low. We must better understand our existing business needs and develop strategies that support their efforts to succeed and prosper. Local actions should include the formalization of a needs assessment program to gain a comprehensive understanding of the strengths, weaknesses, issues and concerns of our business community. Such a program, developed in partnership with the Folsom Chamber of Commerce and Folsom Economic Development Corporation (FedCorp), would enhance current outreach programs and reinforce business relationships. One outcome of the assessment program would be forums and workshops specifically tailored to provide businesses with the information and resources needed. Folsom Lake College could serve as a valuable asset in this partnership effort, and could add the elements of workforce development and job recruitment.

We must continue to take an active role in the region-wide Metro Pulse effort. We need to work collaboratively as a region to establish a business incubator to provide core business service and support, and accelerate the successful development of entrepreneurial companies.

We must also closely examine the city's business regulations and requirements to determine if there are ways to simplify processes for new business. Regionally, we must continue to support public policy efforts that support sound business interests, and oppose those that unnecessarily hinder business vitality.

Our future vitality also demands that we continue to inject new life into Folsom's historic district through redevelopment, and identify strategies to attract new employers with a focus on clean energy and technology.

Hand in hand with endeavors to retain and attract business, development of infrastructure is imperative if we are to create sustainable economic vitality, position ourselves for smart growth that is consistent with the quality and character of our community, and ensure we provide adequate levels of service to our citizens.

Water resources is a top priority, intensified by the current drought condition. Folsom does not have a groundwater source, and does not use reclaimed water, yet we are among the largest users in the state. Immediate steps must focus on conservation. New developments where possible must factor in the use of non-potable water for landscaping purposes. We should pursue opportunities to use reclaimed water that may exist with the El Dorado Irrigation District.

Collectively, as a region, we need to make better use of reclaimed water; look to Monterey and San Jose as examples.

Significant benefit might also be gained from evaluating the potential of advanced groundwater extraction water treatment technologies at GenCorp's Aerojet subsidiary, which are treating billions of gallons of groundwater. And, there would be great value in pursuing a technology think tank partnership that incorporates leading edge environmental expertise from Aerojet and others in our region.

There are no easy solutions to the region-wide concern over water resources and the protection of our water supplies. The issue requires strengthening relationships and collaborative efforts between agencies, regulators, government, and community leaders to reduce competition and instead support an integrated water management plan. Success will depend on finalizing a sound plan that meets future demand and is consistent and aligned with all of our best interests.

Transportation is a key priority with impacts that are regional in scope and perspective. I strongly support continued active involvement in region-wide efforts to develop balanced transportation solutions to improve mobility and reduce emissions. Continued advocacy at the state and federal levels is needed to secure funding of important projects that relieve traffic, improve safety, and ultimately protect our economic vitality.

Given that the infrastructure is put in place, I am in favor of growing the boundaries of Folsom by annexing property that lies south of HW 50. The Sacramento Region Blueprint Project has identified this property as one of the best opportunities in the region to make smart land use decisions. We need to insure that we embody the Blueprint principles, including alternative methods of transportation, open space, natural resources conservation, quality designs, and balanced mixed-land uses. Development of property south of HW 50 must be phased over time, and should not impact the cost of services to existing Folsom residents.

It is also time to begin addressing our changing demographics, which by the year 2012 indicate a significant increase in our senior citizen population. We must plan now to ensure we are prepared to meet the needs of our senior citizens.

I will take an active role in addressing these priorities, and believe that working together to develop strong partnerships and concensus results in the best ideas and solutions. I am committed to listening to the citizens of Folsom, keeping them informed and involved in the government process.