Accomplishments and Goals

By Janet Orchard

Affordable Housing: I approved a new housing element to the general plan which increases affordable housing requirment from 15% to 20% and requires that the affordable housing must be built in developments over 10 units. It also ensures that affordable units will be spread throughout the city. I have been a consistent volcal suporter of affordable housig, including the Wilford Lane Burbank Housing project that has special units for physically disabled residents and women transitioning out of abusive relationships. Further, I am a strong supporter of rent control in Cotati mobile home parks, an important source of affordable housing for seniors.

Water Conservation: As Cotati's representative on the Water Advisory Comittee to the Sonoma County Water Agency, I am currently negotiating a new master water supply agreement with the Water Agency and other water contracts, as well as advocating county-wide conservation plans. While on Council Cotati implemented a new aggressive water conservation program, including a water survey, public education, toilet retrofit and replacement of inefficient washing machines. The water conservation programs are available to both residential and commercial occupancies.

Campaign Reform: I spearheaded the adoption of the most strict and progressive local campaign finance ordinance in Sonoma Couty, including contribution caps of $350 per person and disclosure of out-of-city donors on campaign materials.

Pedestrian Oriented Community: I am a strong supporter of pedestrian friendly improvements throughout Cotati. I was involved with the approval of Phase I of Walkable Cotati that resulted n a number of downtown improvements, including benches, sidewalk realignment, gathering areas, bike racks and traffic calming measures.

Metricula Consular: I approved the Matricula Consular as a legal form of identification in Cotati. (This is an identification card that the Mexican government issues to Mexican nationals in this country. Often it is the only form of identification individuals have. Recognition of this dignifies their presence and facilitates practical uses such as opening bank accounts. It also aids law enforcement agencies in their dealings with the public.)

Diversity: I am a leader in the County on diversity issues. A presenter to the Sonoma County Pride Committee regarding local elected officials and their efforts on behalf of equality and social justice. I wrote Cotati's 2004 Pride proclamation and was selected by the Sonoma County Pride committee as the 2002 Pride Parade Grand Marshall. I also sponsored a civil marriage resolution passed unanimously by the Cotati City Council.