Posted: 09/09/2010 06:00:00 AM PDT
Mark your calenders for the upcoming candidates forum
on Channel 26. It will happen on Sept. 21 live at 7:30 p.m. All
candidates for council have confirmed that they will attend. This week
Pacifica Community TV will team up with our friends at the Tribune to
seek questions for the candidates.
Because of the number of
candidates (possibly nine) the presentation will be more of a forum than
a debate giving each candidate a public introduction to his or her
ideas and why he/she is running. Questions will be selected at random
and depending on the number of candidates who actually show up we'll ask
between two and three questions per person.We are aware there are many important issues the community would like to see addressed and are asking all community members and stake holder groups to submit a question. If you have a question you wish addressed please submit it to (martinanaya@yahoo.com) and put "Candidate Question" in the subject box of your email. Also, please remember that questions will be drawn randomly and all candidates will see all questions ahead of the forum. This means that whatever questions you ask must be applicable to all candidates and not tailored to a single person or group.
We look forward to providing full candidate coverage on PCT in the weeks ahead and thank you for watching Pacifica Community TV, your community media voice.
You may be able to watch it on the web, though this doesn't always work.
http://www.pct26.com/
Posted by Steve Sinai
103 comments:
Vreeland was a no show (business as usual! I almost fainted when the words "Outlet Mall" fell out of Sue Digre's mouth, it was also interesting that she couldn't remember the name of the CVB - Conventions and Visitor's Bureau while claiming to be proponent of tourism in Pacifica. She also claimed Pacifica was not allowed to be on the map when the CVB was participated in trade shows to promote other destinations. Of course Pacifica wasn't allowed, CVB's are a business you have to join them and pay your dues. My understanding is that Barbara Arietta presented this opportunity to our city leaders a long time ago and was met with silence.
Over the next week or so, I will post the 37 questions given to the candidates by PCT26 and my answers to them.
Is Vreeland sick? Seriously, is he ill?
Regarding the CVB, it was actually the Chamber of Commerce that spearheaded getting Pacifica into the CVB.
It was announced that Jimmy V. threw out his back.
It was a pretty good forum, and nobody made a fool of themselves. I had the same reaction as Sharon when Sue Digre mentioned an outlet mall.
Glad you thought no one made a full of themselves. I was very nervous and it seems like I got all the questions I didn't feel as strongly about. But, I am proud of myself. It took a lot for me to do that.
It was nice meeting everyone.
Perhaps I should not type answers when I am so tired. Good thing I am not running for school board. That should say "fool" not "full."
Yes, no one made a fool out of themselves. With that said: Barbara was scary, Tom, you completely lost me a couple of times and you are putting this roller coaster where? I frequently got bored listening to Leo. Susan V pulled off quite a few very insincere comments - what is it about coastal erosion and the snowy plover? Heather - you seem nice, but... and Sue was Sue. Len Stone surprised me in a positive way, but otherwise - I still have no idea who would actually be good for the city or who to vote for. They all said pretty much the same things and then acted like they scored big ones. Most of what they think sounds so easy - just is not.
Anonymous, thanks for an honest assessment. Just a point on your point - sitting up there under the glaring spotlights with time pressures and random questions is not as easy, either. If it seemed like you heard the same things, it felt to me like the questions being asked were the same. The variety of sample questions we had were more varied, but the variety of questions that were asked were about down the same lines.
I don't think any of this will be easy. It will be a lot of hard work. The question really is - who do you think is prepared to do the hard work? I've never not worked hard - I put myself through law school at night while starting a family. I might not always get the answers the first go around, but I'm not satisfied with good enough. I want to correct what's wrong NOW, not let it continue.
Thank you for saying I seem nice. I am nice.
As for acting like we thought we scored big ones - I think everyone in that room was just relieved every time their turn was over. It was intimidating and nerve wracking, but necessary. I speak for myself here, though.
Tom - correct me if I am wrong, but that was a euphemistic roller coaster, right?
Any of the candidates that responded to the Sierra Club questionaire should share their answers with the electorate.
Vreeland is a famous no-show. Check out his attendance record just for this year at council meetings, then check out what was on the agenda. Old fashioned "duck-and-cover". Vreeland dodged all the important, even slightly controversial votes. The problem isn't that his back is out, it's that he has no backbone!
Heather: You are right I do not want a real roller coaster. I just wanted to get the idea out that anything is better then an empty lot.
Tom: you're lucky kids can't vote! You would have lost my kids' vote for saying you didn't want a real roller coaster. LOL.
But you are right - development can be a good thing. Anything is better than an empty lot serving no (or minimal) purpose. I like your "let's be creative" attitude. I think we need people who think outside the box.
Anonymous:
Sorry I lost you. I am a businessman, not a public speaker. Mics scare me spitless. The truth is I do not intend to talk our problems into submission as some of the other candidates seem to think they can do.
I intend to roll up my sleeves and make the hard decisions that will get our City back on its feet and moving forward.
In business, when a problem arises I deal with it head on, I don't give it to a committee for endless study, or shelve it hoping it will fix itself.
Vote for me and you will get someone with both the skills and the will to get things done.
ROLLER COASTERS !!! More roller coasters !!!!
But seriously.... this was an opportunity for the newcomers to lay out their distinct, point by point plan to help bolster the economic condition of Pacifica - and given that for most of them this was the primary motivation for running (as they perceive the incumbents as having failed), none could get beyond the platitudes of "what we need is more economic development". Really? I didn't know!
I would like to see some candidates discuss what can possibly move this city forward.
Talking crap or avoiding Sierra Club, bad. Sabotaging other candidates no-show, bad. Picking on Snowy Plovers, bad. All are vote killers. Let the citizens bash each other and their causes. But, do listen to what they are saying to each other.
Stick to; Promoting Recycling. Recycling is huge and the future. Research-Green Job Initiatives, which is turning out to be a huge job killer. Finding a compromise with the Snowy Plovers and Dog Walkers at our beaches. Dog Walking on the Beach is a long time Pacifica Tradition, one that should not be taken away from the citizens. Tax Cuts. All this talk about deflation/inflation, we know it is inevitable. What tax cuts to citizens and local business could be implemented right away. And, need to find compromise with the unions. Possible discussion topics with them would be something like this - 1) rollback any automatic pay increase for the next five years. Private sector union employees have taken a huge hit and lost jobs. America's economy (california leading) is in the tank. Economy will remain stagnate for the next (being conservative) ten years. When times are tough, we all need to share in taking concessions.
Create in Pacifica a resort like atmosphere. Geared towards stay vacations, enjoying the cool/warm fog. We need a main attraction, not a Outlet Mall.
Linda Mar State Beach- Main Attraction. Charge for Parking at Linda Mar State Beach.This could help pay for labor and doggie doo clean up bags and trash. Create Fire Rings. Stay Vacations will be much more enjoyable spent at the beach with a bonfire and paid parking which can guarantee a parking spot instead of locals hoarding them and out of town serious surfers/fisher people/water enthusiasts will have place to park. Locals can ride their bike or walk to the beaches. We don't live that far from our beaches. This may piss off locals , but I don't care, we all have to make sacrifices in order to survive. All business surrounding Linda Mar Beach business are already catered to beach visitors, but will need help to stay-in-business in the very near future. Turning Linda Mar State Beach into a Main Pacifica Attraction w/pay-for-parking and fire rings, doggie doo bags, is a tax revenue guarantee.
Pacifica Pier - Should be another main attraction. Promote serious support for the pier and nearby trails and business. Keep the fishing free. Create services catered towards that fisherman catching the "Award Winning" fish. It comes with a guarantee picture in the Pacifica Tribune with the Mayor.
Golf Course - Can be a serious attraction. Needs serious support and funds to make it a better course with trails and relationship with the Pier. All should be combined and includes, in the middle, building a HUGE State-of-the-Art Library at the old sewage plant. Our library's are outdated, no offense to the library workers.
We already have three attractions. We don't need any developers right away,except for the Library. Spruce these attractions up and it is a start. I don't think talking about building out the Quarry, fill it with houses is a good idea. We have too many house for sale already. Real Estate will remain flat for a good time. We need to generate tax revenue.
When the tunnel is done, more will come. Fixing our roads and infrastructure should already be in the making. Research what is approved and when it will get done.
Pretty simple stuff-for starters. But, remember, people have no more money to give. Recycle what we have. Shine it up. Fix it Up. Add new services. Give it a new name. Promote it. And, get ready for the tunnel and 2011 tax increases. They will be coming.
Ms. Tanner - I am glad you are concerned about coastal erosion but please get educated! Natural "coastal erosion" at Rockaway would have little if any effect on Linda Mar beach (and on the Plovers - the problem there is dogs)rather I think you are confusing "coastal erosion" with the effects of beach armoring that causes "reflective erosion" to either side of the armoring - as in we build a bigger and better berm at Sharp Park, we lose Beach Blvd.
Other coastal cities have areas of coastal erosion, how do they deal with it-- other than throw-up their hands and say we have "no money"? Shall we wait to deal with this issue until the ocean takes highway 1?
Solutions exist. "We can do nothing" (the verbal off-set for doing nothing) doesn't work for me.
Popular Events in Pacifica that should reach out more to City Leaders;
FogFest-an all weekend event. I have always thought it is well run. Lots of fun for everyone. Keep the Parade. All local clubs, City Leaders should be in the Parade. Are we promoting it as well as we can be?
4th of July-Huge money tax revenue maker. People from all over the World come to surf and picnic and set off safe and sane fire works. Visitors from around the world have never witnessed such a true small-town celebration. Keep the festivities alive at the fabulous Frontierland Park with all City Leaders invited. Needs better promoting.
Sea Bowl Bowling Alley - Should do a better job promoting any and all State and International Competitions. Invite City Leaders to the big events.
City Government and Business needs to get to know each other better. Sometimes when all we have is City Leaders that have been in government all their lives, their views are a little too biased. Also, they are getting double a pension, right? If you are a teacher most of your life and then get voted in to City Council, aren't you getting a double pension? Is it called double dipping in the taxpayers pockets? Someone should look into this.
Kathy Meeh, you are a proponent for retaining Sharp Park golf course behind a sea berm at a cost of $32MM dollars (low end figure - SFPR. This is WORSE then doing "nothing" - it actually accelarates erosion and threatens both Beach Blvd and the homes behind the course and Hwy 1. Are you prepared to do "something" or does it "work for you"?
Have you noticed that all candidates that are running for a seat, whether, it is on; a city council, assembly, congress, senate, president, with only business back rounds are having a hard time in debates? So, to our local candidates ,that come from business, you are not alone in feeling nervous. The thing is that people that have been in government all their lives do have experience in knowing how government runs. Maybe that could be part of the problem, they don't want to shake things up. They could be afraid. Afraid to talk to certain groups of people, like, pro-environment groups, unions, teachers. These groups need to understand that if the city continues to fail and their only answer is to increase taxes and fees their candidates will be voted out of office. There has to be compromise. That is where business people come in. I think business is better at compromise. They are just not experienced debaters and talking it over and over. I think when business is given a job, they want to get right to work and get it done. That's what business does. We need to create tax revenue.
Re: Anonymous' comments about "double dipping":
In Pacifica, our council members serve on a very limited basis and their pay is based on a reasonable number of hours which actually do not include all they must do. The amount of money they receive is based on a calculation set in State law. (We are a general law city if you want to research this in the California Codes.)
They are paid a stipend, plus some health benefits and contributions to PERS. Even under PERS, a retired person can work up to (I think) 950 hours a year without having their pensions reduced, and in such case, retirement benefit would be reduced by the actual money earned as a council member. Teachers are under a separate retirement system, so they would not be getting a double pension. The only one I know of who might meet your example of someone who had worked in government all their lives is Cal Hinton. He worked for the City for over 30 years and his pension was certainly not impacted by his stipend from Council.
The amount Pacifica pays its council members isn't enough to support anyone. The health benefits are certainly important to most people these days.
If we create more tax revenue, can we use that money to shore up our vulnerable coastal areas?
If you are a senior citizen living in Pacifica, can you get a free parking credit card to get in the community center parking? That is if we decide to charge for parking there.
I am totally confused about this election. I don't know who to vote for. I wish Tod Schlesinger still on the race. Some people don't like the way he talks to the council but he speaks the true. Quite honest we need smart people. I don't see any candidates will to start somewhere.
I must not vote this time.
@derb, thanks for clearing that up.
Anon @ 11:38AM, you do not see anyone you can vote for, yet Tod Schlesinger who you voted for in the past has never won (the main reason may be he has been able to run a full campaign).
When you don't vote that's for sure a vote for those you don't want in city council office. 3 city council members only run this city, and with that empowerment and trust the current 8 year city council members (including 2 incumbents) have run this city into an economic ditch. So, try to figure it out.
Then there is the Cafeteria plan this city council voted-in for themselves in 2006.
Most Cafeteria plans are "use it or lose it". This city council voted-in a rare Cafeteria Plan, however; their plan is "use it or take the CASH". So, these city council members who have "day jobs with benefits" take the cash.
Legal? Obviously (cleared by city legal). Ethical? Maybe not. Here's the Seinfeld version of "Double Dip".
I noticed two things when trying to find some coverage of the "debate" on Riptide.
1. Those guys are no worse than Fox News with their "Daddy, please censor the guy who says things I don't like" attitude.
2. Tom, you seem nice enough, but endorsements from Todd Bray and Karen Rosenstein are not a plus for me.
Oops, meant "no better than Fox News".
First 8 questions asked by PCT26 and my answers.
1) Some feel Pacifica has become less dog-friendly over time. What is your position on a proposed dog park in town or other ideas to make Pacifica more attractive for dog-loving residents?
I spoke in favor of the Dog Park at the Sanchez Art Center. I support the idea of more dog parks, but want to wait and see how the first one goes so that we can fine tune it and all the other parks to come to better serve the whole community.
2) For 22 years Pacifica has debated a proposed Highway 1 congestion fix. What is your position on the proposed Rt. 1 plan presented by the Trans Authority during their community meeting. Do you support proceeding with an EIR to finish the environmental review?
I believe that we need a full EIR on the proposed project. This EIR should contain but not be limited to answering the question of impacts on the quarry, Rockaway Beach shopping area, and the commercial properties on the east side of Highway 1, and should supply true alternatives to a six-lane highway through town. The problem we are trying to address happens at set times of day on certain days of the week and, as reported by the consultant for the General Plan Update, is a signal problem, not a capacity issue. The solution as proposed by CalTrans is a twenty-four /seven impact.
3) Do you support the TOT hotel tax Council placed on the November ballot. Will you actively campaign for it or against it? Why?
I support the proposed TOT increase from 10% to 12% for three reasons. One, it will just put our TOT on par with most of the cities around us. San Francisco’s TOT is 17%. Two, this tax has not been raised since 1985. It is paid for by visitors who use our services, not the hotel owners. How many times in recent memory has someone been rescued off one of our cliffs? Last but not least, Pacifica needs the money and this is the most painless way to generate new revenues. $160,000 a year is nothing to sneeze at.
4) Looking at the current projected deficit do you see any glaring mistakes that were made at the Council level? What would you have done different to avoid the projected deficit?
When measure D failed to pass (the 1% sale tax increase,) I would have immediately found things to cut or consolidate. The Council chose to spend down the City’s reserve to cover the deficit. That decision has left us with the same year-to-year shortfall and no funds to cover for emergencies. Entering into a contract with an unproven contractor to build a bio-diesel plant is a glaring error that cost the citizens of Pacifica a lot of money. Allowing the old WWTP site to sit idle while pushing the idea of a city hall on the beach added nothing to the City’s cash flow.
7) As residents review the city's website, some say council and commission agendas are incomplete or posted late. Do you see this as a problem? If so how would you address it?
If true, it would be a problem. I know that there are State requirements that must be met. I believe City Staff are meeting those requirements. I also know that sometime there is a lot of data to go over, and I wish I had the packets sooner.
8) What is your position on development of the old wastewater treatment plant?
The old WWTP is on my must-do list. It needs to become the anchor for the plan to revitalize southern Palmetto Ave. It could be a five star hotel, a card room, a saltwater pool, a roller-coaster, a marine mammal center, etc. Whatever is best at getting people to come to Pacifica and spend money. Whatever the attraction is, Palmetto Ave needs to have one-of-a-kind stores and restaurants to serve both visitors and Pacificans alike.
Questions 9-11:
9) What is your position on Palmetto business district as a potential Pacifica main street?
As a main street, Palmetto Ave has a lot of potential. Tied to an anchor at the old WWTP, it could become a real center of activity for Pacificans and visitors alike. My long-term vision for Palmetto Ave would be to have a business district that stretch from the Manor shopping center to the golf course.
10) How would you use the general plan revision to support economic growth in Pacifica?
With more than a million visits a year, the Linda Mar beach is our biggest asset, and sitting across the highway from it is a largely underused SamTrans Park and Ride lot. If through the General Plan revision and a partnership with SamTrans we could designate that lot a transit village, we could build a visitor-serving plaza with stores and restaurants on the ground floor, as well as homes or offices above and underground parking. SamTrans would still operate a bus terminal, and we could have a direct line to BART that would make Pacifica more a part of the Bay Area.
11) What is your position regarding protection of natural resources and the environment?
I am deeply committed to the protection of natural resources and the environment. I believe that we can rebuild and revitalize our existing business districts without negatively impacting our quality of life. The general plan update is clear that there is sufficient buildable land to meet our projected housing needs.
Hotels in San Francisco are doing very poorly. Cost to much.
Turning Linda Mar Sam Trans Park and Ride lot into a mega three story transit village? So close to residential homes is an idea I hate. Yuck! Noisy and stinky fumes permeating from an underground parking lot? No thanks. We can't even fill in the shopping center across the street.
Hotels around the world are doing poorly, not just San Francisco, but this is just the perfect time for hotel development with the low loan and financing costs avaible and the perfect time for our cities exisiting hotels to market themselves to prospective buyers with sweetheat deals. I usually contract with 2nd tier hotels for our meetings but this year I am taking advantage of the much better rates the first tier hotels are offering and and locking them in to multi-year contracts.
Anonymous
I am looking for ways to expand Pacifica's tax base. How would you tap into the million plus visits to Linda Mar beach each year.
"this tax has not been raised since 1985"
I'm not sure if you're sharing talking points, but I saw this somewhere else too, and I find it confusing and a little bit disturbing.
This is a RATE of taxation, not the amount of tax itself. Is it your belief that tax rates need to be increased every few years? When was this tax rate last lowered?
Clifford: explain your claim of a million plus visits to the beach each year. Statistics, counts, etc. Numbers are easy to throw out there. I can give you a "million" examples.
City Council wouldn't even allow a hot dog cart to operate at Linda Mar beach. If you go to the beaches in Rio, they've got food stands and carts seemingly every 50 feet, and beach-goers love 'em.
It's pretty embarassing that Pacifica can't offer any kind of vending out on Linda Mar Beach. We could have a decent walk-up counter/cafe. Just have a taco truck in the parking lot for god's sake. Something. Anything.
The wasted opportunities are appalling.
Scotty:
You make a good point about it being a rate of taxation.
No, it is not my belief that tax rates need to be increased every few years.
As a general contractor, I pay far more taxes and fees then the average citizen.
That being said, bringing our TOT on par with neighboring cities is the simplest, most direct way of covering the real increase in the cost of services that vistors to the City of Pacifica use. Should we stop funding the resource center because we have to pay the cost of rescuing an inattentive hiker?
Lance
I Googled Linda Mar State Beach Pacifica California an that was the number they came up with.
I know not a scientific study but I really did not have time to stand on the beach with a counter,I still work for a living.
Well now there's an excuse for throwing numbers around like they mean something, "I work for a living". Come on, now. That's as bad a Vreeland claiming that "his" beach trail is increasing business in Linda Mar. "I work so I make numbers up" explanation has been the engine of this local economy for as long as.....as Vreeland has been on council. I think it's time that we hold people accountable for the numbers they throw out.
"In Pacifica, our council members serve on a very limited basis and their pay is based on a reasonable number of hours which actually do not include all they must do."
Gotta laugh at this comment. The three incumbents whose terms are up are among the best-paid council members in the county.
$700 per month + $920 in-lieu health benefit cash per month.
Some months involve only one city council meeting.
Performance-based pay would indicate zero as being a more taxpayer-friendly rate, but the public trough is always tempting, no?
Our economy through out the whole country is bad.
On this Nov election we need new people. Please don't vote for incumbents . They have done nothing for Pacifica. They claimed doing all the best. All they done is to take us to the border of BANKRUPTCY yeah.
The more I read the Trib . I get a very clear answer from the supporters that they still thinking that Digree and Vreeland are the best choice. Brake the ice in saying NO on DIGREE and VREELAND.
Questions 12-19:
12) What are your priorities for addressing Pacifica's climate impacts? Do you support calculating Pacifica's baseline greenhouse gas emissions, adopting specific targets for reduction of emissions?
I believe the state has mandated the calculation of baseline greenhouse gas emission and the City of Pacifica has already begun work on the task. Once we know what our baseline is, then we will know if we have to target specific things for reductions.
13) How much growth in housing and office space/commercial is appropriate for Pacifica, and why? What changes do you favor relating to development and climate change?
I am not sure that currently there is much demand for office space in Pacifica. As for commercial, if the question refers to things like Bio-Tec or Nano-Tec and other clean industries I would be happy to help find a suitable site for a business campus.
14) How can Pacifica better manage its water supply and demand?
This question is probably better answered by the NCCWD, but one thing comes to mind that the City of Pacifica can do in partnership with them. Over time, new lines to carry grey water should be laid so that landscaping and toilets could use recycled water from our WWTP. These lines could also be tapped by the fire hydrants so we are not using fresh water to put out fires.
15) Given that the "Quarry" property has been a thorny issue in the past and possibly subject to habitat protections and a host of potential limitations, how would you approach any development there?
If, after all the agencies that have a say in what happens in the quarry have weighed in, it is determined that there is a buildable site, I would like to see a mixed-use development that ties in with the Rockaway Beach shopping area. This development would have visitor- and resident-serving business on the ground floor and either homes or offices on the second floor. It is my hope that it would be large enough that that whole area would reach commercial critical mass.
16) What's your preferred vision for the future of the 400 acre Sharp Park Golf Course and related property currently owned by San Francisco but located entirely within Pacifica?
I prefer to have San Francisco follow through with their plan to keep the golf course an 18-hole course, modifying the greens closest to the berm to protect both the RLF & SFGS. Also, they should clean up the pond and fix the pumps so we don’t have the winter flooding. In addition, I wish that S.F. would take a second look at their plan for the old rifle range. Piling up the contaminated soil and capping it with concrete is a poor solution at best. Our City Manager connected S.F. with a company that would have sifted the soil for lead and hauled away the spoils for about the same cost as the scrap and cap method.
17) What is your position regarding waste going to landfills?
I believe that we must reduce waste going into landfills. I also believe that the new contract with Recology is a big step in the right direction.
18) Do you support reducing the use of toxic pesticides and fertilizers by Pacifica's Public Works and Parks functions?
I have no knowledge of how much, if any, toxic pesticides and fertilizers are used by the PWD. If I am elected I will look into it and see what alternatives are available.
19) Should construction in Pacifica incorporate green building principles? Why?
The short answer is yes. The City of Pacifica will soon have a green building ordinance. The Green Building taskforce, of which I was a founding member, is about to present to the City Council for its approval a comprehensive green building ordinance.
Questions 20-27:
20) What in your background, training and experience qualifies you to manage the affairs of a city of 40,000 people?
I have run a successful business for more than 30 years through good times and bad. I served my country during the Vietnam War as a volunteer, and have served Pacifica for the last eight years on various committees, taskforces and the Planning Commission, where I now serve as Chair.
21) What is your vision for Pacifica? How do you plan to implement that vision as a council member?
It is my plan to re-task the Planning and Economic Development Department so that it is at least one staff member’s job to work on a development plan for each of our commercial areas. It will then be the department’s job to seek business that meet the needs of the area and clear the way for speedy approval of plans and permits. No more waiting for what we want to walk through the door. Offer help with the SBA or other outside agencies.
22) How are you involved in the Pacifica community?
I am the Chair of the Planning Commission, past Chair of the Open Space Committee, a founding member of the Green Building taskforce and the Planning Commission liaison to the City of Pacifica Sharp Park Golf Course taskforce.
23) How will Pacifica benefit if you are elected?
Pacifica will gain a person with 30+ years of business experience, who also knows how the City functions due to the more than 8 years I have spent working with all of the city’s department heads. I will be able to begin work on the City of Pacifica’s problems right away instead of spending valuable time getting up to speed.
24) What legacy do you hope to leave in four years?
It is my intent to have the City of Pacifica well on its way to full financial recovery, with the structural deficit a thing of the past, new businesses opening in revitalized commercial strips, and the ground work for a transit village in Linda Mar well underway.
25) What top 3 issues need to be addressed immediately? How will you affect the change?
The structural deficit is number one and it will be addressed with a combination of tax increases, budget cuts, service consolidations, and joining with other cities to cut administrative costs (sharing a police chief, finance director, city manager, etc.) If the voters choose not to support tax increases, the budget cuts will have to be bigger and deeper. Second, the groundwork must be laid to increase our commercial tax base. New businesses must be found and enticed into moving here. This should be a job for the Planning and Economic Development Department, possibly with an assist from the Pacifica Chamber of Commerce. Third, the various factions in Pacifica must be brought together. For too long now we have been fighting past battles while our future slips away. I will always be available to work with the competing groups to find common ground.
26) Where do see available land for development? What type of development, if any would you support?
We have many small-to medium-sized underdeveloped commercial areas. I would like to see them built up with visitor- and residents-serving businesses. Harmony @ One and the Prospect are housing developments that are still waiting to come online. The old WWTP should be developed as an anchor for the southern Palmetto Ave business district. The quarry is problematic. Many agencies have to weigh in before we will know what is truly buildable there. If at all possible, I would like to see a mixed-use development that ties in with the Rockaway Beach shopping area so that the area can reach critical mass.
27) Do you think Pacifica has done a good job of promoting economic development and keeping sales tax dollars in the city? Describe your position for improvement.
No, I think Pacifica can do a much better job of promoting economic development. The Planning and Economic Development Department should be tasked with actively seeking the businesses needed in Pacifica and offering as much assist with the permit process as possible.
Questions 28-36:
28) What is your position on term limits for city council members?
I personally will not serve more than eight years. Term limits is an issue that the voters must decide for themselves. Risking losing a productive council member who wants to continue serving the public so that you can be sure of getting fresh blood into the body politic every eight years is not an easy choice.
29) What are the top three issues the Council should address?
See question # 25.
30) Are there other ideas to improve City's budget that have not been addressed?
I am sure that many new ideas will present themselves as time goes on. Some will be feasible and others not so feasible. The job of the City Council will be to sort through all the ideas and come up with the best solution possible. That being said, we will not have forever to think about the problem. The time for hard decision making is upon us. No more studying an issue for years and then conveniently forgetting it as the current Council has done.
31) If you were not receiving a stipend or health benefits for being on the council, would you still seek to be on the council? Following the lead of the City Manager would you ask for a decrease in your benefits?
If no stipend or benefits were offered, I would still run. I feel that in this time of crisis for Pacifica I must step forward and offer my experience and skills. Council members receive a very small and well deserved stipend for the countless hours they spend serving the people of Pacifica. I, as a citizen of Pacifica, do not expect to get something for nothing. I also doubt that the author of this question would work for hours on end year after year for free.
32) Are you running on a platform of pro-economy or pro-environment? Describe your reasons?
I am both a person who wants to take care of our environment and a hard-nosed businessman who wants our city to prosper. The two goals are not mutually exclusive.
33) What do you see as the future for tourism revenue in the community?
The future for tourism in Pacifica is all but unlimited. We are a beautiful coastal town just minutes from San Francisco. We need to better market ourselves and change our brand from fog to beaches and trails. We also need to provide something for people to do when they come off those beaches or trails.
34) What would you do to beautify our city? What laws would you enforce that we already have?
I am already in talks with some of the Manor shopping center merchants about improving the appearance of that gateway shopping center. I am also talking to other shop owners around town about upgrading the appearance of their storefronts, not just to make Pacifica more attractive but also to make their stores more inviting to shoppers. As for enforcing laws, I will leave that to the police for criminal matters and the code enforcement officer for quality of life issues.
35) Can further coastal development or enhancements spur economic development? If so, how?
The development of the old WWTP as some form of destination and anchor for the southern Palmetto Ave business district would definitely spur economic development for Pacifica.
36) What would you to you do to enhance the recreation needs in our community for both youths and adults?
I must admit to not being the most knowledgeable about recreation in our community, since my favorite form of recreation when I can find time is a good book. With miles of trails and beaches, a skate park, baseball and soccer teams, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a girls & boys club, senior activities at the community center, a bowling alley etc., I think Pacifica has a good selection of things to do.
Questions 37-39:
37) Do you believe residents going over the hill to shop hurts Pacifica? How would you do to improve this?
I have found Pacificans to be extremely loyal to our local businesses. They only shop elsewhere when it is not available in town. The way to improve that situation is to develop local businesses that meet the shoppers’ needs. I propose to have our Planning and Economic Development Department take on the task of actively searching for businesses that meet our needs and recruit them. We have to stop waiting for things to happen and take our future in our own hands.
38) Do you support a sales tax increase? Explain.
To my knowledge, there is no sales tax increase proposed. Measure D recently failed, and I do not see another sales tax increase being put before the votes for a long time.
39) What’s your position on developing a downtown area?
I am in favor of not only developing a downtown – I believe southern Palmetto Ave coupled with the old WWTP presents the most likely site for a downtown development – I also want to develop our other commercial strips so the city as a whole can reach its full potential.
Tom, the fact that you are willing to state your positions so openly puts you light years ahead of the mealy-mouthed, politics-as-usual incumbents. Other than Julie (who isn't even running), I still haven't heard a definitive statement from them on their vision for the golf course. It seems that their "backs go out" any time someone asks a hard question.
"I would like to see a mixed-use development that ties in with the Rockaway Beach shopping area"
That's a bold statement that is going to lose you some environmental brownie points. I like it.
"Council members receive a very small and well deserved stipend for the countless hours they spend serving the people of Pacifica."
$1,620 per month ain't small. That's what three of our worthies on the council receive. How about putting public service back, in place of the public trough.
Anon 9/22, 11:03AM, the Sharp Park Golf Course property you speak of belongs to San Francisco, which has the money and expertise to figure-out what is needed for that area. The berm cost considered by San Francisco I recall was between $6.7 million and $11 million, think in the final vote they split the difference.
The number you threw-out was $32 million, an exaggeration of 3x or 4x, wow!
Some berm maintenance money will come from Federal and other grants, some may come from San Mateo County and Pacifica. Its our coastline, similar to fixing the 1.3 mile highway and the city cliffs, Pacifica just might be accountable for both knowledge and a low "fair share" cost portion.
I follow science and "best practice". The specialized, impartial experts who completed the studies and research deemed keeping an 18 hole golf course (with fee off-set income) is the best solution. That is science, not myth, not opinion, science.
Almost everyone wins: golfers, visitors, site specific species (which exists because of the golf course), residents (keeping lives and houses healthy), San Francisco cost to maintain, Pacifica tax revenue. Those who lose: the most fatalistic on the planet, contractors, lawsuit attorneys.
Barbara is a control freak. In the middle of the proceedings she told the host he should change the format and ask the questions randomely. Classic Barbara moment! She's the kind of person who probably rearranges your furniture when you're not looking.
At least we now know where she stands on the Hotel tax, she said she is strongly for it. She said: "We need to vote for this as if our lives depended on it, because they do."
Lance, is it really important at this time if the actual number is 750,000 or 1,250,000 visits to the beach? The real issue is what can Pacifica do to get the most out of its main attraction.
I am just a working man and don't have $50 or 60k for a detailed study of who and how many people use Linda Mar Beach. I used the best data that is readily available to the general public.
Lance, after reading your blog about the schools and teachers I know you are a fair minded man. Please show me some of that same open-mindness.
If you have ideas about how to capitalize on Linda Mar Beach, please share them with me.
I only want to do what is best for Pacifica.
I am sorry to report that someone has started to destroy my signs. While I can understand that that person does not support my candidacy, I do not understand how they can justify theft and vandalism. I fought and risked my life for all of us to have the right to free speech.
PLEASE RESPECT MY RIGHT TO FREE SPEECH.
I understand that Clifford put a sign up on the highway and was told by the owner to take it down, that he didn't have permission. I also understand that he placed signs at Pedro Point in front of the units occupied by many different businesses without permission from the owner. Common mistake. I understand that Vreeland placed a sign just north of the old Kentucky Fried without permission.
Anonymous I was given permission to place The Signs on Highway 1 and then the owner change his mind and ask me to remove them which I did immediately. I recived permission from Castle kitchen to place my sign on the corner as well a sign directly in front of his unit. Berry Nadel's wife (and office manager] gave me permission to place a sign in their window. I have asked permission for everyone of my signs.
We need to develop the WWTP. Hold on to your chair....here it comes, I think that area needs to remain a government-type city building. The reason why I think that is because the streets are small and narrow, and very residential. Crowded. Palmetto is near, where we have our wonderful FogFestival, so tying the WWTP developed site into Palmetto, Golf Course, Pier would be a nice area to visit and see. What should we put there? Ok, now hold on, I think it should be a combination of a City Hall/Library/Ocean Discovery/Art Multi-Functional Building. The thought of a Hotel there makes me sick and I won't vote for anyone who wants a Hotel in a small area with homes and family's. We need to keep it local/for locals and visitors facility. Keep the traffic low. Bike lanes all around. Promote Palmetto as an industrial area. I love French Patisserie and the other business's on Palmetto. The area has improved.
Without creating new tax revenue we won't move forward. I won't vote for anyone advocating raising taxes. Charge for parking at Linda Mar State Beach. Keep the park fee minimal and give visitors a free fee day, off season. Summer months visitors must pay a fee.
Maybe we can develop Sea Bowl Area a little better. Make it not only for bowling, but another indoor recreation facility.
Our residential neighborhoods need to be protected and any development, that would bring more traffic, I think has been carefully considered. Our neighborhoods have improved. Thanks to the BOOM years for real estate.
We need business minded candidates that will move this city forward by getting to work right away. We will get there.
Save Sharp Park Golf Course!
And, then you will see how people will want to move back and in.
Please don't get petty about where signs are. Ridiculous.
Anon @ 5:42pm, Your plan seems to be a 3rd world city with MegaTaxes. We're close to that now. Pacifica over the past 8 years looks like "honey, I shrunk the city," Map of Pacifica. except change the orange sections to green "land gone".
How is it your last comments seem to contradict your first two paragraphs. Who are you voting for, so I probably won't be voting for them. Best thing, maybe write-in yourself as candidate 3x: Anon, Anon and Anon. Good luck!
Then we will build a Hotel and a Outlet Mall next to your home. when the economy is better in ten years.
A parking fee at a state beach is not a tax. Remember, you don't have to go park at the beach. You can walk or ride a bike.
Quarry won't get built. No big projects have a chance here in Pacifica. I just don't believe it will happen. We have to make do with what we have until the economy gets better. To believe anything else is lunacy.
Anon @6:46pm, whether it happens or not, parking fees at the beach is the "booby prize." "Making due" continues deterioration and compounds the failure. What is needed was clear 10 years ago, 8 year city council did not pick-up the challenge, and incumbents should be voted out for that reason. Your solution is wait 10 additional years.
10 more years of city deterioration = 20 years of compounded city deterioration. 20 years loss of city tax revenue + citizen jobs + a huge capital infrastructure problem.
Seriously, maybe take an economics 10 class. And, let the professionals do what they do best.
If your first line reference (above) is talking about the quarry property, an Outlet Mall, retail, mixed use would all bring-in city tax revenue.
A downtown village would have been great. Too bad some of you, including the city council incumbents, worked to assure that did not happen. And, yes that would have been fun to live next to, very civilized.
Put Beach/Palmetto OWWTP up for sale, advertise, facilitate planning. The quarry, work with the seller to encourage developers, and facilitate planning. This is not "belief", "lunacy" or "rocket science" Anon. Positive economic development action rather than denial and excuses will fix Pacifica.
Anon's "Can't Do" attitude perfectly exemplifies what's wrong with Pacifica.
Anon, I can't figure out if you are jumping all over the place with intention to confuse or you just forgot to take your lithium. I'm guessing the former. No developer will touch Pacifica's potential gold mines, mainly the old WWTP and quarry, unless the 2 incumbents are replaced with people with common sense and a more balanced vision. Past 8 year council's vision = no commercial tax base = no money = further deterioration of infrastructure and services = no local jobs = further blight = resident flight = third world small village. Perhaps this is your plan to get rid of most of the people and give the rest of Pacifica's open spaces to the feds. Pretty good job so far.
I think we need to be honest with ourselves. Anyone who does not have a good understanding of the economy today and where it is going in the next ten years has no business running for a seat in city council.
Housing will remain flat if not dip a little. New construction is pretty much non-existence, unless you are good friends with Nancy Pelosi and was able to lobby for stimulus funds.
Quit fooling yourselves. Or is it you really don't have a clue? What is it?
Many people are still in denial over the state of the economy. It will get a lot worse before it gets better. Banks are holding on to homes they had to foreclose on. Just wait until they unleash the next wave of homes for sale onto the market.
Bank of America is in real financial trouble.
Name me one developer, with capital, that is waiting on the side lines waiting for a "pro-development" candidate to be voted in. Who has those kind of connections? Then I will change my position.
After what happened with the quarry, Pacifica is dead, unless it is through the government. Those are the facts jacks. Now, you could say they did it on purpose, but really, can we just move on?
If you want them to come, we need to clean things up. What do we have to offer here in the city for people to want to come develop, live, do business? A lot. We have a great Chamber of Commerce that is doing for business what should have been done. We still have work to do and with no funds. Pro-Business Candidates should know this. Clean it up, Spruce it up, offer newer up to date services and they will come. Cost for doing this should be budgeted in, already. Get it in writing, know what we have. Then we can start to build it up. Rome was not built in one day.
Layoffs, rollbacks of raises and bene's, work with a smaller staff and crew.
Private sector has been doing this since 2007.
Once we are back in black, then we can start to build up newer and up-to-date city services and re-hire.
Who has the stomach for this? Who is up for the challenge? Jerry Brown says he can do this. How about you?
Anon 9:18AM, your comment that Bank of America is "in real financial trouble" probably needs more information. You may know some structural reason for that. BAC (the stock) is down a lot, but they have also been down prior and recovered.
Nationwide says yes. Or, is it a good time to stay away? BAC from Yahoo Finance.
Does anyone have any idea what the 2011 tax increases are? Dems did not agree to extend the Bush tax cuts, Our money that we were able to keep. So, does that mean gov will be getting tax revenue? and what will they be doing with all that money? will they be paying down our US deficit? Every new born American is $43,000.00 in debt. Will we be bringing back the underage worker and abolish all child labor laws? What are all the 2011 tax increases and how will Pacifica residents be effected by this? Kathy, please don't answer , you are usually wrong and a little clueless about these things.
Anon @9:04 take a drive, building is happening outside Pacifica.
Why don't some of you Anons get names, so some of us won't think you're just schizophrenic?
Building that has been paid for for some years back.
Hey Kathy, have you ever heard of stimulus funds? It is keeping lots employed in San Fran, San Mateo Country, etc. Many of our residents live in Pacifica and are staying employed because of stimulus funds, but those monies have run out.The jobs will get finished. Commercial Real Estate is low performing right now.
I think, now, it is a blessing in disguise that the quarry did not get built up. How many of those homes and business's would be empty or unfinished, or in foreclosure, now? Let's get down to some real facts here, Kathy.
You need to get out and talk to people who actually own Construction Business. Ask them what it has been like for them lately and how all these taxes and healthcare laws have helped or set them back. Ask them who is winning government bids. I dare you. I think Chamber of Commerce has a better clue. You need to get a brain.
Anon @10:29AM, the problem is you tread in opinion and unreliable blogs. Unless you are in the highest earners, this additional tax cut does not apply to you. Newsweek 9/15/10.
The nation's wealth has been redistributed upward over the past 40 years, 90% of wealth is held by 10% of the population, whereas 10% of the wealth is held by 90% of the population.
Think that is fair? This is a big change from what had been a more even distribution of wealth (something like 60-40% and 40-60%). I posted a credible blog article here about this about 6 months back.
FYI, two more Pacifica tax increase are proposed for the Spring. Maybe save your energy for voiding the tax measures, and right now work to electing city council candidates who can make a difference. Let the city sell some properties and bring in economic development under a new city council.
Most of the people who whine about taxes also complain about the deficit. I think they need a refresher on remedial arithmetic.
I was going to say this conversation has nothing to do with Pacifica, but sadly, it very much does.
Anon @ 10:51AM, regulation being what it is, had Measure L passed the quarry project just might be breaking ground. Following the defeat of Measure L, Peebles Corporation walked from developing the a commercial, retail area (without housing) about 3/2009 as the result of "negotiations" by the city council subcommittee Vreeland and Lancelle. Had those "negotiations" been successful, regulations would be newly in process. And these two regulation time-lines are credible assuming they progressed.
As you know for years the city Chamber of Commerce management was more friendly to building trails than supporting business. This year business people have taken back what was rightfully a business association.
Without city cooperation and coordination (namely support by the city council majority (3),and city planning process) improvement (time-line and charges), -- a Chamber of Commerce can only do so much.
There are no "blessings" for this city in not developing the quarry to bring-in substantial city tax revenue. Construction is happening outside Pacifica, although the overall economic downturn is difficult for most people, whether employed or not; obviously, it is more difficult for those partly employed or not at all.
The rant about health care makes no sense to me, health care reform and greater Federal oversight is long overdue. Pacifica construction fees are very high, something like 88th highest among 102 cities in California (found that on one of those city profiles a few weeks back).
It would be helpful if you would try to communicate on a more reasoned level, rather than by whims, suggested "dares", and insults.
Once again, you are not getting it. The middle class was wiped out in 2007-08-09. It has nothing to do with not liking taxes. It has everything to do with: 1) unemployment will continue to rise and is currently running around 14.9% in California 2)housing will remain stagnant and banks are holding onto homes they foreclosed on. 3)2011 tax increases will effect the poor and middle class the most. Small and medium size business will remain stagnant. How could you help Pacifica residents during these tumultuous times? By building more homes? No. That would be the stupidest mistake. No more home building until housing is on a come back. According to experts that won't be for a good ten years. Then what? you already have 2011 tax increases in all form and shape for every American including newborns.
How many residents in Pacifica are unemployed? Does anybody know?
10.8% unemployed in Pacifica as of July 2010.
Only 12% of our Pacifica's working force (21,000)lives and works here. No more homes OK but we need business, especially retail so we can stop feeding dollars to businesses over the hill. We have one (in a town of 40000) place to buy a dress!
Only two bank branches in a town of 40,000.
I guess there's not much of a need in a town with no economy.
12.4% unemployed in California as of 9/24/10, (try google).
Anon @1:04pm in recent years unemployment has not been as high as 14.9%. True, according to your criteria "I am not getting it", nor do I plan to. Clearly I do not believe or trust most of your comments on this article.
Example, what development "experts" would just hold their breath for 10 years until the economy recovers to begin to develop commercial or retail projects? Maybe these "experts" are long term planners for something like limited partnership holdings of storage sheds (while collecting rents in the meantime and looking for capital gains upon sale of the property when property prices are higher).
The regulatory process to develop a project may take several years. Some of the "experts" expect a better economy by 2014. The respected national/international "expert" company hired by San Mateo county to track economic trend was one of those. An article about housing improvement trend in San Mateo County was posted here about 2 months back.
Steve: I agree with your point, but I think there are three banks U S bank, BoA, and First National.
We need to build up our comercial areas. As a council member I will work to make that happen.
Where's BofA? Is it the one behind the Linda Mar McDonalds?
I forgot about the little Wells Fargo branch in Safeway, too.
Ya all the way in the back. I forgot Wells Fargo too. I have accounts at Wells Fargo, BoA and u s bank. I should have remembered it.
I've got nothing to add, just wanted to say congrats to my friend who had a baby girl today. Thought I'd spread some joy here instead!
Is it just me or does Tom, get a gleam in his eye every time he sees Heather.
Back in 2 & 2
@Kathy, Name the experts.
Meanwhile, everybody is just holding their breath and twiddling their thumbs, for ten years, waiting for the economy to get better so these so-called "experts" will just pounce on the opportunity to build the quarry when the economy turns for the better. Phew!
Ten Years. Meanwhile.....like I was saying, Clean it up, Spruce it up, and get it ready. It really is not that hard to do.
Anon 9:02Am, here's one major economic analysis company hired by San Mateo County. Beacon Economics which "specializes in quantitative and qualitative macroeconomic research and analysis. We help our clients forecast the economy, forecast revenues, evaluate markets and industries, calculate risk, measure results, assess and develop economic development programs, and evaluate and inform public policy. Our economists and researchers employ proprietary models and sophisticated data and survey techniques to unearth real and usable insights that can guide everything from investment strategies to development and growth plans to public policy. We also specialize in regional economies and bring deep professional and academic expertise to analyzing the demographics, employment, business trends, quality of life, and other indicators of a geographic area to assess its future, its strengths, and weaknesses. We work with clients as on-going advisors or on a project-by-project basis." Further "About Beacon Economics" information."
That's the reference I used for my disclosed information for the San Francisco bay area unemployment trend 7/11/10.
And, what is your "experts" reference?
Try again, second paragraph Fix Pacifica post which didn't come up for some reason. Bay Area unemployment trend.
If this doesn't work, try the old fashion way:
http://fixpacifica.blogspot.com/2010/07/bay-area-unemployment-update-may-be.html
Or, 7/11/2010. Go to Fix Pacifica the bottom of the page "older posts" and continue to flip pages back to that date. The article has a visible unemployment chart.
Chuck cut that out my wife thinks politics is boring and I don't what her to catch on that it could be fun. The truth is I'm Irish and I have a gleam in my eye for all the lassies especially my red headed LADY.
Tom - we both have the Irish in us and spouses who bring it out of us, so I'm not sure what Chuck Woolery is seeing. Perhaps that gleam in our eyes is looking at each other with respect? I know it doesn't happen much in Pacifica politics...
Heather I don't know but maybe Chuck was just a wee bit in his cup and looking to have some fun at our expense.
Respect for others, even those I don't agree with, is how I try to live my life. You have earned my respect by daring to give to Pacifica your time and energy.
"...had Measure L passed the quarry project just might be breaking ground."
It's amazing that with the housing crash, followed by the commercial real estate crash, that anyone still believes this.
Must be some sort of faith-based economics.
Thanks, Tom. Ditto. I don't think people have any idea how tough it is to be a candidate in Pacifica.
Heather: People can be a little hard on the candidates but they have a right to exspect our best. I fought in a real WAR and at least no one is trying to Kill me here. Stealing my signs an attempted character assassination are small patato's next to that.
Guys, you're boring the shit out of this site. 96 comments! Please. Clifford, Tanner, stop! Just for you own sanity. The rest of you, there's no hope.
Anonymous: what would make it more interesting to you? Should we do a Candidates' version of Saturday Night Live?
Tom, you are right. They do have the right to expect our best. All I meant is that it is not the easiest thing to put yourself out there. Believe it or not, I am not an extrovert. Still, I am passionate about Pacifica and I am glad people take it seriously, even if too zealously at times.
Anonymous: I'm done now.
Heather, #97 (Anon @ 7:50pm) gave you and Tom a compliment, the rest of us are "hopeless".
Think Anon was try to tell us when comment posts hit 100 the article explodes, or something like that.
Tom, while Anon was bored I read your 9/21 candidate debate responses, and maybe these should be posted as an article-- there's a lot of comments and responses, so don't know how that would work best (Steve Sinai, Blogmaster may know).
I find I agree with almost every reply you made, except I'm more aggressive on building the quarry and fixing 1.3 mile highway bottleneck, and there may be a few other items.
Maybe we can continue this on another article post...even the Tom meet and greet.
I'm #99, someone else post 100, good luck!
Kathy, I'm glad someone else thinks I'm sane. LOL.
I was wondering if fixPacifica wanted to do an article on all the candidates' responses? I've got mine typed up, too. I didn't answer all of the questions, but would be happy to provide responses to the ones I did.
Here's to post 100.... everyone head for cover!
Kathy I was hoping that My comments would generate more debate.Other peoples questions and comments help me clarify for myself what the issues and solutions are. I am glad you want to refocus on them. Whether I win a seat on council or not I want to help Pacifica survive the coming crisis. Thanks for reading them all.
Heather not sure it matters if all the questions are thrown out there in an article, 37 is probably too much for bored ADHD Anons to focus on anyhow.
Tom, when you posted your answers to Channel 26/Tribune questions, I thought they deserved more attention as an article then. And, hopefully we can get through this compounded broken-down city/financial crisis with planning for a much improved city future.
"I'm more aggressive on building the quarry and fixing 1.3 mile highway bottleneck, and there may be a few other items."
Get ready for a looooooooooong wait.
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