RANDOM THOUGHTS AND COMMENTS

Endorsements

It has always been my personal policy to neither accept nor give endorsements. If asked my preference on a candidate one-on-one with an individual, I may offer my opinion. But I prefer not to add my name to endorsement lists or to solicit or accept endorsements from organizations or individuals.

Campaign Behavior

Campaign season is upon us, and with it the beginning of what I call “campaign fever”…where rumors and personal opinions abound, and matters that would usually be dealt with in the normal course of events become controversial campaign issues. It’s all part of the process, and because of Morro Bay’s June primary, it will continue for the next eight months.

During my terms as mayor, the City Council has operated openly and respectfully of both our citizens and our city staff. We are all available to respond to your questions, and to provide factual information and clarification on anything you may hear or read that has you concerned.

Local government is the only level at which there is truly one-on-one accountability. You can talk to your elected officials by phone, e-mail, or in the grocery store. We are responsive to your concerns, as indicated by the workshops and discussions this past year on neighborhood compatibility issues that were a direct result of community input.

Morro Bay has faced some difficult challenges these last few years, including the energy crisis, earthquake, State cutbacks and increased gas prices. But we are responding with new events to attract visitors and new ideas to recognize and support local business and our economy.

The additional sales tax approved by the voters in 2006 is higher than estimated, which means more funding for the designated uses of public safety, streets and storm drains.

We are also currently undergoing an independent analysis and potential reorganization or our entire city structure, in an effort to further reduce costs and develop a long term plan for balancing revenues and expenses.

John Erskine, author and educato, said: “Opinion is that exercise of this human will which helps us to make a decision without information.”

During this extended campaign season, I encourage you, as citizens and voters, to consider the source of and the motives behind the opinions being expressed, and question or credit them as seems appropriate.