Official Ballot Statement

	Official Ballot Statement
Michael George Barnes	Age: 38
Occupation: Scientist

Education and Qualifications:

Personal Background: I grew up on the peninsula, attended UC Berkeley, and
purchased my home on Klamath Street in 1991 where I live with my wife Kim.
After working on a tugboat in Louisiana in 1978, my employment has been in the
biotech industry, where I am currently involved in protein biochemistry
research. I have served on the Brisbane Planning Commission since February
1996.

Experience: I have a 50 year old Brisbane cottage, so I have been through some
of the headaches of working on a Brisbane property. I have also seen building
abuses in Brisbane. As a planning commissioner, my goal is to make ordinances
consistent and understandable so that property owners may develop their lands
while maintaining the character of the city.

During the Baylands Interim Use ordinance hearings, I provided incentive for
the Bayshore Boulevard storm drainage study to be completed. Another result of
allowing businesses to operate on the Baylands was the cleanup of one of the
dilapidated Baylands properties, and availability of free firewood to Brisbane
residents. I understand the balance that needs to be struck between development
and quality of life.

Vision: Planning issues the city council is likely to address include Brisbane
Acres and Baylands development. The city also owns the old fire station and
vacant property on Plumas. Planning experience is necessary on the city council
in making effective use of all city lands. A pet project I would like to see
initiated is a fenced dog run, to take some of the pressure off the schools and
the new park.

I believe development must not overwhelm the character and scale of present-day
Brisbane. For large developments, exactions or contributions to Brisbane would
be required.

As do many other Brisbane residents, I make phone calls to the SF Airport noise
reporting hotline. It is important to pursue every avenue in noise and traffic
abatement as the airport continues to expand. The airport must be kept
responsible for its impacts on Brisbane. 

Senior housing, city hall, swimming pool and gazebo projects are all underway.
I will insist they remain within budget.

I've enjoyed the opportunity to participate in Brisbane's civic life, including
the local computer network, and share the independent Brisbane spirit. With
your vote I look forward to continued civic involvement as a member of the
Brisbane City Council.
/s/ Michael Barnes
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