Confidence in Government

By Tom Dubois

What aspects of the relationship between Palo Alto citizens and its government would you like to improve the most? How would you do that as a member of the city council?

The city has allowed business parking to overrun neighborhoods for years, to the point where it is estimated that we have a parking deficit of over one thousand spaces. The PC Zoning process has been used to create office buildings without much visible public benefit. Enforcement of city ordinances is done on a complaint basis, so many violations go ignored and require citizens to be vigilant. Enforcement policy creates the impression that the rules don't apply to some people. Staff reports are long and dense, and often seem slanted to one conclusion without presenting a balanced view.

Each one of these things erodes the public trust.

Taken together we have serious work in front of us to regain that trust and have people believe in the positive impact of government. Faith in democracy can start with local government. Local government is the most accessible and the most transparent. We can do better. We will do better. We can start sweeping the chambers clean and electing councilmembers that stand up for transparency and openness.

I know it's difficult for busy residents to monitor what's happening in City. And you shouldn't have to. That's why you elect representatives. We need to earn your trust. We all must have zero tolerance for the situations we've had in the last several years. We need to elect councilmembers who share your values and will keep actions transparent.

I will:

1. Enhancing opportunities or public input for decisions made that affect your lives.

2. Require clearer, balanced staff reports

3. Require staff reports be made available 2 weeks before council meeting so there is time for review

4. Use HARD data to base decisions

5. Consider cumulative impacts and not use questionable numbers that don't add up

6. Be vigilant against "closed door" dealings. I will post my council schedule online for anyone to access.

A quick word on the "Palo Alto Process". I've come to love the Palo Alto process because what it demonstrates the care and passion people have for our city.

I was against Measure D because of the flawed approach. The plan was to flip twelve market rate homes in a residential neighborhood to pay for a public benefit (senior housing, which I support). Housing is important, but it doesn't trump all issues. It was not an open and transparent process. Ramrodding an issue through, ignoring residents, and short circuiting the Palo Alto process is not the way to build trust.

Measure D showed how out of touch our current council is with the community. They were tone deaf and defensive. It took a grassroots effort, outspent 12:1 that went on to win by 13% to get them to pay attention.

I will listen to YOU + and will be an advocate for resident concerns