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LWV League of Women Voters of California Education Fund

Smart Voter
Santa Clara County, CA November 6, 2012 Election
Candidates Answer Questions on the Issues
Council Member; City of Morgan Hill


The questions were prepared by the Leagues of Women Voters of Santa Clara County and asked of all candidates for this office.     See below for questions on Experience, Important Concerns, Balancing Interests

Click on a name for candidate information.   See also more information about this contest.

? 1. What experience related to city government would you bring to the City Council?

Answer from Joseph W. Carrillo:

Knowledge of the value of work, and how it helps the city. New ideas on how the city can be more sustainable, green, and independent.

Answer from Matt Wendt:

As a real estate attorney, I have worked on real estate issues on behalf of cities. I believe my legal background will be an asset to city council. In addition, I am involved in many community service organizations. I am a Board Member for Morgan Hill Library Foundation. Also, I serve on my Homeowners Associate Board. Finally, my wife and I volunteer for various charity events.

? 2. What concerns are of particular importance to the city and how would you address them?

Answer from Joseph W. Carrillo:

There are a lot of roads in Morgan Hill that are dangerous for pedestrians and bicycles. As a city council member I will make sure that the city is safe for pedestrians and promote bicycles and walking instead of cars. This can be accomplished by more speed bumps, crosswalks, bike lanes, stop signs, and trails. It shall be more efficient to walk or ride a bike through Morgan Hill than to try to drive a motor vehicle through it. There should also be no cars allowed on the promenade.

Answer from Matt Wendt:

At this time the City of Morgan Hill faces many decisions that will impact its residents. While other California cities are filing for bankruptcy, the budget will be an important issue to ensure Morgan Hill continues to prosper. I would support a fiscally responsible budget and if necessary make reductions without cutting essential services or jobs. Also, the city council must promote economic growth by having a business friendly environment while maintaining the city's small-town feel. The city council should do all it can to support local businesses.

The safety and welfare of residents are of crucial importance. I would back the police department to ensure public safety. Morgan Hill must remain family-friendly.

? 3. How would you balance the needs of the city as a whole with groups’ interests?

Answer from Matt Wendt:

The needs of the residents of Morgan Hill should be of primary importance and the only factor city council must consider. It is the goal of a public servant to look out for the best interests of the community and consider the points of view of all groups and residents.

Answer from Joseph W. Carrillo:

Promote local jobs and businesses in Morgan Hill while making the city more sustainable, green, and independent.


Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' statements are presented as submitted. Please answer each question in no more than 400 words. Direct references to opponents are not permitted.

The order of the candidates is random and changes daily. Candidates who did not respond are not listed on this page.


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Created: December 17, 2012 13:46 PST
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