Political Philosophy for Mary Frances "Frances" Rowe

Candidate for
Council Member; City of Sunnyvale; Seat 7

Sunnyvale will need experience and visionary leadership to confront the many challenges the city will face in the new millennium. I can already see three very grave issues which must be addressed: (1) financial management, (2) employee relations, and (3) a city government that has grown stale and unresponsive. I have the knowledge, experience, proven leadership abilities, drive and energy necessary to serve the citizens of Sunnyvale.

For the first time, the city's long-term financial plan (budget) is in trouble. Sunnyvale's strong financial management practice has gone by the wayside. The hallmark of our long range financial planning which resulted in no service cuts and no layoffs of employees during economic downturns is evaporating. No one at City Hall is watching the finances of our city or how our money is being spent.

Until recently, Sunnyvale was known as a city with excellent employee relations. Under the present city government, Public Safety employees were forced to work without a contract for 2-1/2 years. Now we have the Sunnyvale Employees Association at an impasse in their negotiaitons with the city. City management publicly states its' employees deserve a higher than average wage, however, in private contract negotiations they continually offer these hard working employees a below average wage.

As your councilmember, I will work hard and tirelessly for the enactment of an enforceable Sunshine Ordinance. This will guarantee that the city's business will be conducted openly and publicly. I will seek to end the struggle between the city and its' workers.

With much hard work and your help, together we can restore Sunnyvale to its once-renowned status of being a well-run model city.

Vote for Frances Rowe to restore truth and integrity to our city government.