the issues

Making Martinez Even Better

Public Safety

Keeping our town safe is my top priority. As we all know making Downtown Martinez a "destination" will require vigorous efforts in the next few years. To that end I support expanding our police force to 40 full-time officers, with at least one officer dedicated to the Downtown's growing popularity.

Roads and Infrastructure

Paving and maintenance of our roadways is not only an aesthetic issue, but a safety issue as well. A smooth road is a safe road. In the last four years we've resurfaced approximately 23% of our 116 miles of streets in Martinez. We need to continue this aggressive pace of upkeep. As a member of the Paving Subcommittee, this focus will continue.

Water and Air Quality

Continuing improvement and maintenance of our water system is also a priority for our community, and I will continue to be aggressive in demanding that we all have top water-quality delivered to our homes and businesses.

As a past Chairperson and current Director on the Bay Area Air Quality Management District representing Contra Costa cities, I have made industry accountable through tougher laws and fines. Our air quality is important to us every minute, and my leadership efforts in battling climate change, smog and particulate matter (soot) will continue on your behalf.

Our Marina

The Marina has significantly improved in the last four years—and not only just the removal of the old pier. After years of planning and negotiation, a private/public partnership is poised to restore our Marina. With the blessing of the State of California and funds to match this extensive renovation, I believe our Marina and its surrounding park area will become the central hub of all community and family activities.

This detailed multi-million dollar plan will need leadership to oversee these improvements in infrastructure, beautification and greater usability. I, hereby pledge to continue this endeavor on our town's behalf.

Budget

As a fiscal conservative and member of the Budget Subcommittee, our reserve fund has grown from $1600 to more than $6 million today. This leaves us with a reserve of more than 30% of our annual budget.

I will continue this prudent direction to maintain our fiscal health.

Environment / Open Space

I will continue to fight to make our environment better—in Martinez, the Bay Area and beyond.

I led the battle against Texaco's pollution of our marsh when we were told we didn't have a chance. The result: a $1.5 million settlement, putting industry on notice Martinez is no longer a toxic-dumping ground.

I have always been supportive of open space, and led our city to place more than 600 acres of waterfront and marshland into protection from development in 2006.

Downtown

Our downtown's burgeoning theater, music, and restaurant district is coming along, as is the concept of "Artinez". It is my vision to keep making our downtown the place to go to for dinner and a show. Drama, opera, art shows, bicycle races and cultural offerings have enhanced the quality of our downtown experience. Let's keep moving in this direction.

Park Bond

I support Measure H—the Parks Bond. Let's make our parks, pool and library better places as we make Martinez even better!

Beavers

I have fought to keep the beavers as a noteworthy element of our downtown in a safe manner. Measures taken have nearly eliminated any risk, and the payoff has been a positive statement about our community, along with numerous visitors. The home of John Muir retained its soul throughout this wonderful challenge, and I pledge to keep our efforts a national and worldwide marvel. To find out more about how we're helping the Martinez Beavers, please visit MartinezBeavers.org.