Candidate for
Council Member; Town of Atherton

Local government plays an important role in determining how our future will be defined - and it is essential for individuals seeking a leadership role in our community participate in our community's various organizations as a means of gaining an understanding of our town's opportunities and issues.

It is also essential that individuals seeking a leadership role demonstrate leadership by adhering to civil discourse even in disagreement.

Over the past several years, I've gained a solid knowledge of the issues facing our town by working on various committees and organizations.

Volunteer efforts include:

• The Holbrook-Palmer Park Landscape Master Plan
• The Atherton Tree Committee
• The Holbrook-Palmer Park Foundations and Atherton Dames
• The Atherton Library Building Steering Committee
• Ad hoc Grading and Drainage Committee
• San Mateo and San Francisco County Master Gardeners

I've become dismayed at the acrimony and the divisiveness of our public process -- at the apparent belief that it's ok to say anything as long as you win. This unfortunate tactic has crept into the way communities govern themselves. I'm sure you are all as tired of the squabbling as I am, and are looking for governance that is civil even in disagreement. I believe we have an opportunity here in Atherton to set a new example. We are neighbors, we are friends, and we can disagree in a way that does not diminish either position. This and the belief that pre-committed alliances are not constructive to the development of postive public policy will be the guiding principle of my campaign and if elected my term on the City Council.