Last night all four candidates for the two open Council seats participated in a forum sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Diablo Valley, AAUW of Clayton, the CBCA, the Clayton Community Library Foundation, and the Clayton Garden Club. I’m grateful to these organizations for hosting this important event.
Because of time constraints, candidates were limited to one minute for each response and many questions were actually several questions combined. I have written extensively on many of the items raised and will do so more in the future so I encourage everyone to visit my website at jeffwanforclaytoncitycouncil.net to learn more.
While other candidates touted their experience working in government, only Kim Trupiano talked about actually being responsible for a budget, or managing teams. Experience in these areas will be critical as we move forward. As a CPA, and Vice President and Controller of a multi-billion dollar company, I have extensive experience being responsible for budgets, projects, and teams. There will always be new things to spend money on but being a fiscal steward means prioritizing competing needs with the resources available.
It is certain that city finances will be a key issue to
be addressed in the near term. Recently I
spoke with Paul Rodrigues. Paul is also
a CPA, and Clayton’s former Finance Director.
He took an opportunity last year to use his talents as the Finance
Director for the City of Pittsburgh. Paul
has strongly endorsed my campaign, saying that I have been spot on with my
financial analysis and concerns, going on to say that I am the only Councilmember
who truly understands the finances of the City of Clayton.
Our former Finance Director, Chief of Police, and the Clayton Police Officers Association representing all of our police have now endorsed my campaign. These are individuals that have deep knowledge of our city and understand its challenges, have seen my work, and recognize that advancing my ideas will help Clayton move forward. I’m grateful for their support.
Ballots have been mailed and should be received soon. I humbly ask for your support and your vote so that I can continue leading Clayton on the path forward.
