Transparency

In my opinion, transparency is the principle of allowing those affected by administrative decisions to know about the resulting facts and figures (e.g., the city budget) and about the process that resulted in those decisions. It is also a fundamental element of abolishing corruption.

I am committed to acting openly, with the citizen’s knowledge of every decision I make. My votes with always have a statement attached to them, as to the reason I made any given decision.

I will also work to make sure the public has information available on government policies and actions, that their FOIA requests are fulfilled, questions and concerns are answered, and work hard to make sure the city is efficiently administered and free of systemic corruption, which are important components of transparent governance.

Transparent governance is important because corruption threatens good governance, leads to the misallocation of resources, harms public and private sector development, and distorts public policy.

Accountability

Local government accountability mechanisms are, demarcated approaches to exacting accountability to ensure democratic control of public institutions, to prevent corruption and abuse of power, and to improve public confidence in government.

I believe in accountability in our elected officials and in my commitment to the public of ensuring that other elected officials are always held accountable, should I serve as your elected councilmember. Accountability is a key component in rebuilding trust in government.

Prior to running for city council, I have been attending city council meetings and have spoken out on numerous issues to seek accountability, whether it be about the city being in violation of a few municipal codes, to which they should adhere to, or addressing the woefully neglected Desert Jade Senior Housing community. If the citizens are required to abide by municipal codes, then the city has a responsibility to as well. No one is above the law.

Preparedness

I believe, it is important to be prepared to hit the ground running if elected as your councilmember. I am fully aware of what needs to be done and what is expected of me.

• I have been spending time studying the Brown Act.

• I have been also educating myself on the subjects of municipal management & finance, and now have an understanding of what is necessary, to successfully go about managing a small city.

• I have been studying our municipal codes.

This is all to help me be a better and more effective councilmember from day one, because I believe in Good Governance. I have even questioned the city previously on a few of the municipal codes numerous times for the city not complying with them. Still with no resolutions today.

In addition to education to do my job, I commit to doing my own research, asking questions, and being sufficiently prepared before making any decisions.

Commitment To The Community

We need new approaches to local leadership that resonates with all residents and puts our community in a position to benefit from equitable local policies and programs. I understand and empathize with the hardships and struggles that entangle many of our fellow residents in a bind that can lead to social and economic disadvantages with little room for relief.

If you elect me as your councilmember:

• I am committed to making local government more inclusive and accessible, taking a proactive approach to addressing the issues we face, and reprioritizing the city budget to support and enhance critical services that many residents depend on. I am further committed to accountability, transparency, and in Prop 218 compliance.

• I am committed to having town hall meetings throughout the year, so that I can hear from all residents and take their concerns and issues back with me to council for further discussion and a potential future agenda item.

• I am committed to always following the law.

• I am committed in helping make sure that our public safety is never in jeopardy.

• I am committed to making decisions that benefits most of the citizens and not any special interest or select few.

• I am committed to helping put us back on track and moving forward in getting new business, more revenue, a balanced budget, and more.

• I am committed to working many hours outside of expected council and special meetings.

• I am committed to ongoing community engagement.

• I am committed to addressing and finding a remedy with plan on all the core issues outlined in the Kern County Grand Jury Report.

• I am committed to addressing the lingering issues our city has been dealing with for years.

• I am committed to not providing false promises.

• I am committed to addressing all municipal codes not in force, needing changes, or out of compliance.

I will remain consistent in my commitment to the people first and will always make sure your concerns are heard and not dismissed.