Political Philosophy for Irene O'Connell

Candidate for
Council Member; City of San Bruno

Recently I listened to a speaker who challenged public policy makers to, "have no small vision." When I began my first term on the San Bruno City Council, I had a vision of my home town that was revitalized and renewed. After months of work, the City adopted a Redevelopment Plan that gives us the tool we need to make that vision a reality. The money realized from 'tax increment financing' will be available to the city for a variety of projects. The Redevelopment Agency can give low interest loans or grants to business owners who want to improve their buildings. We can use funds to make changes to the streetscaping in our downtown. 20% of the gross funds generated must be used for affortable housing which is urgently needed. Our residential neighborhoods are protected through the creation of 'residential conservation areas'.

We need a new library/community center. Our children need a place where they can explore the world; all residents need a place to gather and share their diverse cultures - to grow as a community. It should have, among other things, adequate parking, room for books, internet access, study areas, and be handicapped accessible.

Our city deserves a first class hotel/conference center. The soon-to-be-sold Navy Base is an ideal location for such a complex. The site is away from our established residential areas, close to public transportation and has easy access to 380 and 101. Such a hotel would generate approximately $800,000 a year in room tax that the City receives outright. This money can go a long way in funding a new library and police station. There is room for senior and affortable housing as well as office space with ancillary services uses such as a child care center.

We can successfully renew and revitalize our city, preserving what we have while carefully building for our future and our children's future.