Key Issues

Fiscal Responsibility

San Jose is the 10th largest city in the United States and can serve as a model for the rest of the nation as it works to overcome issues facing larger communities. As our structural deficit continues to grow, it is imperative the city run efficiently, effectively and make the difficult decisions necessary to reconcile our city budget. This will not happen without sacrifice and must start with our governing body. We can not simply tax our way out of this situation and further burden families and businesses, which are already struggling with unemployment/underemployment, foreclosures and dwindling resources.

When we in our personal lives face budgetary issues and we don't quite have enough to pay ALL the bills, we look for ways to trim our expenses after prioritizing those items which are most essential and/or honoring mandatory commitments to preserve the quality of our family's life. The residents of San Jose are entitled to this same fiscal accountability from its city council.

Preservation of Police/Fire Department Services

San Jose has been identified as one of the safest cities of its size in the nation and we as a community can be proud of this achievement. A key function of local government is to ensure quality law enforcement and emergency services are available to the community and as such, these are essential services that I am committed to preserving during these difficult economic times. My sincere gratitude goes to those men and women, who serve as our first responders.

Improving Our Schools/Educational System

The primary and secondary education of our children and young adults is key to not only their future, but to the continued success of San Jose. Families should feel confident that the educational system is of quality caliber through their primary involvement and the added support of the local government. Our schools should be well funded, easily accessible and strive to prepare our youth to compete nationally and internationally. A less centralized system would allow for families to have more direct involvement, greater fiscal accountability and ensure the specific needs of our District 9 schools are met. I'm committed to empowering the residents of our community and classroom teachers in their quest for excellence within the academic arena.

Promoting the Growth of Small Businesses, Fostering Employment Opportunities and Addressing the Foreclosure Rate

There is no quick fix to the problems facing our city. What is readily apparent though is the need to ensure businesses, which are the engine of our economy, have the opportunity to flourish. I firmly support Mayor Chuck Reed's efforts to waive and defer fees and taxes for businesses in the San Jose community, thereby encouraging the entrepreneurial spirit and the creation of jobs. The development of jobs is a significant step towards helping families to remain in their homes; a critical step towards providing much needed stability. I will not hesitate to act boldly in encouraging and providing opportunities for reinvestment into San Jose. I have a firm belief in the creativity and determination of San Jose residents to meet looming challenges when barriers to success are removed.