Patch Blog: Getting Close to Election

We are getting close to election. We have had some interesting discussions. Some have moved us to national and global issues that are not directly related to South Pasadena, but all was good. 

At the end of the day, I hope most of us can agree that the City of South Pasadena is a unique City. It is a great place to raise children. It has a great school district, and has great community. I might suggest that is because we have not succumbed to the divisiveness that has infested our national discourse. Nationally we ask that our government compromise and work together to get things done, but then lower ourselves to name calling and blaming anyone who was different solutions to our common problems. I hope we can continue to have civil dialogue here in South Pasadena.

In the City of South Pasadena, we have agreed on keeping our schools strong and protecting our neighborhoods. We might argue among ourselves and disagree on how to accomplish that, but we have for the most part kept that argument local. I hope we can continue to do this. There are many other cities that are more liberal or more conservative, but I don't think they work as well as South Pasadena. There are cities that are richer and cities that are poorer, but I don't think they work as well as South Pasadena. I like the mix.

Everyone running for City Council will use their best judgment to solve the issues that face us. We all bring a different set of skills acquired through our professional and life experience. I don't know what motivates others to run for City Council. It really is a thankless job, in which 10% of the population will disagree with you and question your integrity and motives. Some understand that and others don't have a clue. If they win, they will learn. 

I am running because I was asked to by my neighbors. They thought with my background and understanding of the City that I could help. I have a tough time saying no to helping the City in which I was raised. The other candidates are running for their own good reasons. All the candidates love this City and think they can help.

Whether or not we agree on all the solutions, you can be assured that I will always work to keep our City strong for our schools and neighborhoods. Hopefully you have learned a little about the way I think and the basis for my positions. I know I have enjoyed getting to know you.

Please vote Nov. 8, 2011. I would be honored if you trusted me with one of your three votes, but in any case vote. Thank you for this dialogue.

I have really enjoyed this, thanks again.