Tuesday, July 07, 2009

Quitting Isn't an Option

I’m running for re-election to the Vallejo City Council! I did a lot of soul-searching, talking to my family and my close friends before making this decision. But ultimately, it came down to the fact that I couldn't not run again. A double negative, I know. But I think it best describes the fact that quitting simply isn't an option. Looking back on the past four years, I’m proud that I've kept my promises of not being beholden to special interests, and bringing truth and transparency into how our government works. I have proven that I can stand up for what is right, not what is necessarily easy. And I have demonstrated that I take my responsibility seriously, I study all sides of the issues, and I do my homework. I know we can shape Vallejo’s future and get what we all want – clean and well maintained streets, money for after school programs, community events, and senior centers, a fully funded police force and fire houses, quality shopping that keeps our dollars in Vallejo and brings dollars in from other cities. But to make this happen, we must continue to confront our financial demons, past mistakes and years of, “We've always done it this way.” We must spend within our means, and make that spending based on hard reality and financially sound budget projections. We also must be ready and at the forefront when the national and state financial recovery begins, so we can attract high-quality businesses and clean, living-wage, jobs-producing industries to Vallejo. It hasn't been easy. It won’t be easy. But lasting change never is. With your support, I look forward to making this change happen together. Viva Vallejo!