Fix Pacifica: Don't fergit: Tom Clifford Meet & Greet

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Don't fergit: Tom Clifford Meet & Greet

45 comments:

Uncle Walter said...: The candidates for City Council, for the most part, are not a very impressive lot. The incumbants should not even be considered. They had their chance - or chances - and failed. Karl Davidson and Heather Tanner are woefully unprepared - you have to wonder what they're doing here. Leo Leon looks like a typical Pacifica "no-growth" candidate, on top of which he's gotten his business experence at the Post Office (let's just raise the price of stamps!). Tom Clifford, althrough linked with Leo at Open Space and Planning, and sharing some endorsements, is at least a businessman, and is interested in promoting development rather than discouraging it. And he knows his way around a building site. Len Stone, a young insurance broker, undoubtedly could use some seasoning, but he's intelligent, energetic, civic-minded and forward-looking. Sue Vellone might be the best of the lot - smart and sensible, a long-time local businesswoman with a lot of contacts, experence at the Chamber of Commerce, willing and eager to work. A winner.

The best thing going for the incoming council, and the best hope for the City of Pacifica, is Mary Ann Nihart. Don't burden her with the unwanted, disruptive presence of Barbara Arietta. Mary Ann will have a tough enough job as it is.

So my picks would be Sue Vellone, Len Stone and Tom Clifford. Each of them are certinly independent, and have their own ideas, but I think all would work well with Mary Ann. Now, if only Pete DeJarnatt would sleep through two years of council meetings, we might get something done.; October 5, 2010 at 5:35 PM
Anonymous said...: Uncle Walter, great comment wisdom post, except I'm kicking Stone to the side of the road. Arietta is an important talent component in this mixture, she stays in.; October 5, 2010 at 7:05 PM
Hometown Honey said...: Love your picks Uncle Walter! And I think your spelling is charming :); October 5, 2010 at 7:11 PM
Anonymous said...: Arietta has only the talent in her head. Notice Jackie Speier did not endorse her? Ever wonder why? Maybe The congresswoman knows that towing the democratic party line will not help Pacifica. Based on comments from others who have worked with, I would never wish Barbara on the one council member who is actually working with everyone in town and getting something done. Mary Ann deserves more from us than that. Uncle Walter, you may have a point. Thanks.; October 5, 2010 at 8:19 PM
Anonymous said...: Fake argument Anonymous 9:19PM.... your personal issue. Arietta has a long list of endorsements. I have worked with her and she is highly effective, that is why she has all those leadership roles in her background.; October 5, 2010 at 9:01 PM
Anonymous said...: Problem. Karen and Larry Rosenstein who hosted the NO on L website and have taken a "no growth" position have posted the Meet Tom Clifford article on Pacifica Riptide. How does Tom Clifford reconcile that one?; October 5, 2010 at 9:09 PM
Thomas Clifford said...: The fact that I have friends in all the camps is what makes me a good candidate. I am not a one-dimensional paper cut-out of a person. I understand the issues and positions of both sides, and will work hard to bring us together if only for long enough to save Pacifica.

The crisis that Pacifica faces is real and the factions must pull together if we are to come out the other side stronger and more prosperous.

There will be plenty of time to sharpen our swords and hack away at each other once we have saved this city we all love.; October 5, 2010 at 9:55 PM
Anonymous said...: Nothing personal with Arietta here, just close observation. Sorry argument not a fake too bad you don't know how many groups disbanded to get out from under her rule. Don't think all the anons are the same on this site. Babs has destroyed as much as she has done. There are many of us that have noticed. Wow; October 5, 2010 at 11:00 PM
Anonymous said...: "you don't know how many groups disbanded to get out from under her rule."

Neither do you. Nasty underhanded comments Anonymous 11:00PM.; October 5, 2010 at 11:14 PM
Hometown Honey said...: I liked your 'roller coaster' idea ;). You are my wild card. What is your business in town?; October 5, 2010 at 11:32 PM
Anonymous said...: Give me a break. Maryann hasn't done a damn thing in two years except tell us too many times she hasn't done the damn thing--whatever it was. Slippery as Vreeland. Arietta makes waves, so what. Who cares if she rocks mary ann's boat as long as things get done and Arietta gets things done. We're not setting up play dates here are we?; October 5, 2010 at 11:51 PM
Scotty said...: Uncle Walter, you sound suspiciously like Jeff with one of his many personal axes to grind (this time against Babs). That said, I think I might agree with your choices at this point -- at least until I hear more information.

"Don't think all the anons are the same on this site"
Some clearly are. Some sound like Kathy.; October 5, 2010 at 11:56 PM
Tom (get it done) Clifford said...: Hometown Honey: I am a licensed General contractor an owner of Phoenix Remodeling.
I specializes in residential remodeling. I will do anything from adding a closet to major addtions and complete home rebuilds. My true love is to take tired old kitchens and bathrooms an turn them into things of beauty and function. I will work from San Mateo to San Francisco.; October 6, 2010 at 12:44 AM
The Prophet said...: I think we should elect Barbara just to watch the rest of the council explode. We could get a network reality show contract. DeJarnutt's head would start shaking and explode like in "Scanner's". Digre would be taken away in a white jacket. Jimmi V would keep going "but it's my turn to lie". Nihart, ah, Death Match 2010!; October 6, 2010 at 7:49 AM
Anonymous said...: Many (but not all mind you) of you posting on this site are so full of Schadenfreude and other negative emotions you do not know what to except complain about what others supposedly have not done -- all while not doing anything yourselves to improve this community.

Even worse are those of who are intentionally working to bring the downfall of the city simply because you want to see it fail just so you can blame the incumbents. WTF???; October 6, 2010 at 8:43 AM
Steve Sinai said...: People are working to get incumbents Vreeland and Digre removed from council in order to prevent the downfall of the city.; October 6, 2010 at 9:07 AM
Paul Slavin said...: I applaud Tom Cliffors's responce to the anonymous critic @ 9:09 pm. Pacifica has to grow up, put these decades-old battles behind us. Uncle Walter's slate might be a very good start.; October 6, 2010 at 9:35 AM
Kathy Meeh said...: Paul, we've been told "let's all get along" before. From my view that doesn't work. The city council election issue is not unlike saving our access to Sharp Park Golf Course. Unfortunately the 4 Platerite equivalent city councilmembers have been in charge for 8 long years, supported by their "nothing for Pacifica" friends. And, 3 council members only control this city.

There were more city council interviews in the Tribune today, part 2, which I'll plan to post here as articles when available on line. I found the comments from Susan Vellone and Barbara Arietta crisp and to my liking. And, although I do not support the TOT tax, I understand why others might (the city is broke, not fixed prior by city council incumbents).

Other comments. Heather Tanner is thoughtful, but I think she needs to be around some of these issues longer, and because of less name recognition cannot win this time.

The incumbent, Sue Digre sounds like she understands the issues-- she doesn't, and she failed that 8 year test in real time.

"Uncle Walter"(?) may have a good start, but I will for sure include Barbara Arietta (with her extensive county and city background and reliable, solid view of what is needed for this city) in my choice of candidates.; October 6, 2010 at 1:01 PM
Anonymous said...: Ms. Meeh says we have all been told to get along. Too bad we have never actually tried to act on that suggestion.; October 6, 2010 at 1:24 PM
Anonymous said...: I don't think taking credit for other people's work gets Barbara any big kudos from me. That is just bad form.; October 6, 2010 at 1:44 PM
Kathy Meeh said...: Anon 1:24pm, we have tried. That didn't work. We have also argued, and we have put in our volunteer time to change this long time city problem. Nothing has changed city council 4 ideology and mostly prior silent agenda.

"Time for change" is past due by 6 years. Think you can vote them out this year? Or, shall we just go to plan B and let the city default.

For sure I'm personally not supporting any taxes, unless a pro-economy, accountable city council 3 are elected.; October 6, 2010 at 1:52 PM
Anonymous said...: Has Arietta ever had a real paying job? Or is her experience just in joining clubs, committees and commissions? What has she accomplished? Has she always worked for the Democratic Party? We deserve to know.; October 6, 2010 at 5:19 PM
Heather Tanner said...: Not sure if this went through the first time.

Kathy - thank you. I don't necessarily disagree. I feel differently, though. I wanted to come at the city council as the average citizen - someone who knows what its like to be affected by the decisions being made and feels powerless to change them. I'm not on the committees and I don't have any political allies. In fact the only project I would adamantly support is the Pacifica Resource Center - because I feel it is a very valuable community resource. I want to be on the council so I can feel like I am a part of the change that must happen. I won't be making decisions lightly, I will be making them knowing that I have been given a great privilege and honor in being selected as a council member.

But, if, as you say, I don't win the election - - I am going to hold my head up proudly. Because I said what I needed to say, kept true to myself, and refuse to malign anyone else in the process. The largest complaint I have heard about me is that I don't seem to know the issues - I can't argue with that.

On August 4 when I submitted my papers, I was just the average Pacifican. I wasn't handed a "Dummies Guide to Pacifica" the next day. I've learned and researched and asked lots of questions because I want to understand what Pacificans believe is important, and what they feel we need. Then I want to provide that.

Overwhelmingly, Pacificans want relief. They want more jobs, more business support, and more money in the economy. They don't mind development - if its smart development. Anybody can bring a Walmart into town and bring in jobs and money to the economy. Pacifica is not a Walmart town. We need the revenue, but we need to keep true to us.

So, I may not be the right candidate, but that doesn't mean I am not going to keep trying. I think it is important that people who are elected remember who elected them. The people of Pacifica deserve an elected official who will use their skills to the best of their abilities to represent them.

I hope you will all still say hello to me, whether I win or not. I am still going to fight for Pacifica, still going to keep the poverty level in our county in the forefront, and still work to get people support and jobs.

Thanks for the support. Just please, after all this, get out on November 2 and vote with your conscience!!!; October 6, 2010 at 5:30 PM
Kathy Meeh said...: Heather, I think you are the right kind of candidate, and you're smart and professional. And when you're better known in Pacifica, on Fix Pacifica there may be an Anon in the wings to trash you for that. That may be equivalent to a high achievement and acknowledgment award elsewhere.

Keep up the good work. I thought your statement for the last city council candidate debate was great!; October 6, 2010 at 5:50 PM
Anonymous said...: Ms. Tanner: are you going to raise any funds to communicate to the public and be a credible candidate? You have missed a debate. I think you are in this for your 15 minutes of fame.

This is not about saying hello to you, it's about who has the keys to a $26 million operation.

I think this is your hobby. How do you plead?; October 6, 2010 at 6:17 PM
Heather Tanner said...: Anonymous: here's the thing. If this were my "hobby" I would not put my name on my posts. I would sit by and just wait to see what the vote says. Oooh, wasn't that fun - let's see if I can run for water board next time! Wee-hee!

Let's not be silly. I can't imagine anyone would want to do this for a hobby.

Let's look at your statement logically. If I were, as you say, looking for 15 minutes of fame - wouldn't I be trying to milk it for all the more? You say I missed a debate - someone looking for "fame" does not miss opportunities to get it.

Since you have been watching the fact that I have missed things, you must have been watching me. Ergo, I am a credible candidate. What is raising funds from other people's hard-earned moneys and using it to get my name out to still other people going to do to help? Why do that when I can do the same thing for free by talking to people? Isn't it a bit irresponsible to spend money that doesn't need to be spent?; October 6, 2010 at 8:11 PM
Anonymous said...: Ms Tanner: You are not serious, so sit down.
I pay attention to city governance because it's important. Who shows up and engages is critical.

City Council wants $6 million more in taxes next year.

A $26 Million annual city budget is serious business.

You do put your name on posts because you like to talk. You chat. I want leadership, experience, a track record.

It ain't you. Sit down please and let the rest of us sort out the serious candidates.

A serious candidate shows up; has a history of engagement; not last minute; not chatty; but gets things done--a track record.

Not you. Your time is up.; October 6, 2010 at 9:48 PM
Anonymoose said...: We want candidates who take the race seriously - like Schlesinger did. Twice!!; October 6, 2010 at 9:54 PM
Heather Tanner said...: Anonymous - sounds like you want the same thing you have now. Your vote is yours to cast. I am glad you take it seriously.

I take my future in Pacifica seriously, as well. That's why I've thrown my hat in the ring instead of sitting at home complaining about the decisions other people are making. I have been in the community "showing up" as you say for sometime - perhaps not in the same circles as you, but then again, Pacifica is a big town.

Sounds like you want only a seasoned politician. Cast your vote as you wish.

Perhaps I was wrong and Pacifica really does not want someone with a fresh viewpoint. Perhaps there really is no room in Pacifica for different.

If I wasn't serious, why did I do the candidates forum? Why did I put information in the newspaper? Why was I one of the first candidates to come here and answer questions? Why am I doing the PCT interview? I could sit home and do nothing.

Why are you so bothered that I am not raising money to throw at this election? Are you someone who sells campaign items? Are you a campaign sign maker?

People don't have a lot of money to give right now. Even though I've had people offer contributions, I would rather them give the money to the local schools or to organizations like the Pacifica Resource Center. If I can't get out there and talk to people face to face without spending thousands of dollars, then I don't deserve to be trusted with millions of dollars in city funds.

If spending money means a candidate cares about the election, then perhaps we should just look at the financial statements and elect the highest spender. But is the highest spender what Pacifica needs?

Oh, and guilty as charged... I do like to talk to people. I'm good with people and people like me. If that makes me a poor candidate, then I'll just have to live with that. I'd rather be me.; October 6, 2010 at 10:20 PM
Anonymous said...: Anon: Ms Tanner & getting votes.
Here's the last election in 1996

You gotta work to talk to voters and address issues. Chatting does not count. Todd came in LAST. A teachable moment here.

JIM VREELAND 7,890 20.7%
SUE DIGRE 7,213 18.9%
JULIE LANCELLE 6,741 17.7%
BILL MOORE 5,691 14.9%
DAVID BLACKMAN 5,436 14.3%
JOHNNY NAVA 2,895 7.6%
TOD SCHLesinger 2,263 5.9%; October 6, 2010 at 10:21 PM
Kathy Meeh said...: I'm thinking Heather Tanner is first on the ballot this year, and she's an Attorney. She might get some bonus votes, in addition to her private campaigning. Hope so, so that Anon 9:48pm might "sit down".

Its clear we all like to talk, that's part of the reason why we are all here.

For the record, those who didn't notice-- Councilmember Vreeland was missing at the first forum, didn't send through answers to questions like Heather Tanner did, and seemed agitated at the last forum. Carl Davidson has been a complete no show-- he'll get some votes too, just for being on the ballot.; October 6, 2010 at 10:39 PM
Anonymous said...: Ms Tanner doesn't have a lawyer job.

She works at a Burlingame hotel gift shop.

Ms Meeh, you oughta pay attention as well.; October 6, 2010 at 11:36 PM
Anonymous said...: Stech leave the poor girl to her delusions.; October 7, 2010 at 6:54 AM
Anonymous said...: Heather Tanner is a licensed California attorney. The fact that she does part-time work elsewhere does not mean she is not an attorney. If you were paying attention, you would know she does contract work.

Anonymous, don't goad Kathy to "pay attention" when you only know half the facts yourself.; October 7, 2010 at 7:12 AM
Anonymous said...: I have to give Heather and Tom credit at least they are here answering questions trying to fix the town. More then most of you arm chair quarterbacks; October 7, 2010 at 7:53 AM
Anonymous said...: Anonymous October 7, 2010 7:53 am,

You are oh so right!; October 7, 2010 at 9:30 AM
Anonymous said...: And at least Ms. Tanner is NOT a career bully.; October 7, 2010 at 9:37 AM
Heather Tanner said...: What's wrong with working at a hotel gift shop? My family needed me to get a job, so I took one that was offered to me. I work hard.

I also do contract work for other attorneys.

I babysit. I drive kids home from school.

I do whatever it takes to take care of my responsibilities.; October 7, 2010 at 10:16 AM
Kathy Meeh said...: Heather, makes sense to me. What kind of attorney are you? Do the commercial.; October 7, 2010 at 11:54 AM
Tom Clifford said...: Heather, Give them hell. You are a hard working women standing on your own two feet. I have the greatest respect for you. come to the meet and greet tonight if you have time.; October 7, 2010 at 3:39 PM
Steve Sinai said...: Why the heck did you schedule this during the playoff game, Tom???; October 7, 2010 at 3:44 PM
Heather Tanner said...: Tom - I would love to come, but I have kid duty. Football practice. We are in the tigersharks this year and the season is winding up. Not sure a political meet and greet is the best place for two tired kids.

I do personal injury and employment law. Not the field I thought I'd do in law school (I was more a constitutional law kind of gal), but I found I am good at it. I am really good at helping people and being fair and balanced in negotiations. Unfortunately, with the collapse of AIG, many insurance companies are settling cases before they ever get to the litigation stage and closing ranks on the types of policies they write - eliminating a lot of work. My law firm closed because they simply could not get enough cases in the door - we did great work (too great - we settled ourselves out of a job).

As far as contract work, I do it all. I've done a lot of fair debt collection work recently and I am in the process of partnering with a foreclosure attorney in Sacramento who I met at a continuing education class. Chatting does work for me. I have a client I do work for in SoCal, who sends me loan modification work. In the past, I've done a lot of employment law, real estate, and even contract modifications. I find it all interesting. I love how the law balances things and creates the impetus for change.

Tom - perhaps you can give playoff updates during the meet for Sinai?; October 7, 2010 at 4:18 PM
Heather Tanner said...: Correction - when I said loan modification, I mean we do a lot of work for people who have been defrauded by loan modification people - not that I try to get loan modifications.; October 7, 2010 at 4:24 PM
Tom (passing the hat) Clifford said...: Steve, I booked the room three weeks ago, before playoffs were an issue. Anyone who has a question for me can call me at 415-385-8704, and if you would like to make a contribution to my campaign, send a check to the Committee to Elect Thomas H. Clifford at 1122 Sheila Lane, Pacifica, CA 94044.; October 7, 2010 at 9:57 PM
Kathy Meeh said...: I attended, and this was a very fine event, complete with decorations, food and soft beverage. Tom was a cordial and hospitable host who manage to talk with everyone and sincerely answered questions.

The general theme with people I spoke to was "we need a city council who can make decisions". Behind that fill-in "for a balanced city economy". Tom has been clear he will do both.

A highlight for me was meeting Tom's son, a long-time friend of his, and talking to other people there I've seen at various city functions but have not spent time with.

Campaigns are very expensive, and if you support Tom for city council please do send him a check.; October 8, 2010 at 12:06 PM

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