Candidate for
Mayor; City of Fresno

Representative Democracy

I believe in the idea of representative government. Citizens elect one of their peers to take on the responsibilities of office and to make decisions in the best interests of the community. I don't think complicated, controversial issues should be put to a vote of the people--elected officials should make the tough decisions. And they should use their best judgment, and not merely take the politically popular course.

Civility

It's difficult to get good people to run for office today because politics has become nasty and personal. People who have a family or a business or a reputation in the community are hesitant to put those precious assets at risk in order to serve the community. We have to tone down the rhetoric and increase the level of respect and privacy accorded our elected officials. And those in office need to learn how to disagree agreeably and lose graciously.

Accessibility

It is important for citizens to have access to their elected officials. As Mayor, I will make it simple for people to get their views or concerns heard. In particular, I will work with Council members to become acquainted with the issues in their districts and to meet with their constituents on a regular basis to discuss needs and opportunities.

Regional Approach

Many of the issues we face--jobs, water, ag preservation, transportation, education --are regional issues,not just City of Fresno issues. Fresno is the capital city of the San Joaquin Valley and its fortunes are tied to those of the region. We should work closely with other agencies in addressing these issues and in making our region more competitive with other regions.

Diversity

Fresno is literally one of the most diverse cities in the country. I think it is critical to the well-being of our city that all groups participate in the political, social and economic mainstream of the community. While I resist the numbers-game approach to making appointments, I will work enthusiastically to include members of the various groups in our community on city staff, boards and commissions. I will consult representatives of our ethnic and religious communities and welcome their advice on the full range of issues.

Fresno's Image

Fresno always seems to get rapped in the national and statewide media. Some of the criticism is deserved in my view. But a lot of it has to do with Fresno being the farm town that the big city folks get to look down on. I wouldn't worry about it too much. My sense is that we should focus on improving our city, not improving our image. If we do the former, the latter will follow.