 The 7th City Council District is fortunate to have someone with the fiscal experience, personal integrity and strong community planning background of longtime civic and community activist April Boling as a candidate. Her integrity, no-nonsense approach to fiscal analysis and financial management and ability to make tough decisions and then follow through to implement them are her trademarks.
Few people in or out of government are able to read a city budget like April can, know what the numbers mean to those San Diegans who rely on city services and share that information with the public. From her early warnings about the road the city was taking on its pensions to her accurate assessment of the budget decisions made by previous mayors, April's insights have helped the public understand the decisions that were made by elected officials.
I have known April Boling for a long time, and have been impressed by her volunteer service as chairwoman of the San Diego County Taxpayers Association, as chairwoman of the San Diego Convention Center Corporation and as a member of the San Diego Citizens Budget Committee.
April also has years of experience as a community planner, serving as a member and chairwoman of the Navajo Community Planners Inc., where she dealt with complicated land use matters, helped the Navajo community come to consensus regarding proposed projects and then effectively communicated the community's support, opposition or recommendations for changes to the City Council. April also served as chairwoman of the Patrick Henry High School Foundation, and learned first hand the opportunities and challenges faced by PTAs and local groups when dealing with the school district and the city.
How refreshing to have someone like April Boling who can be sworn in as a council member and immediately be able to read and analyze the city budget, and not have to rely on some city employee or staff member to explain what it all means. Ask yourself, do you want someone making policy decisions about retirement plans, negotiations with the Chargers, complicated land use matters, discussions with the School District over joint use, and the annual budget who has never had to do so before?
April has visited more than 9000 homes in the 7th District so far, and has shared with me and others how important it is to listen to local residents, hear their concerns and interests, and translate that into a "to do list" for the 7th District that will make a real difference in the quality of life of all, from youngsters through senior citizens. Her grassroots campaign is based on direct communication with those who live in the district's neighborhoods. She wants to know what is important to local residents and let them know how she will handle their issues as a member of the City Council.
Born and raised in the heart of San Diego, April graduated from Hoover High School and the University of San Diego, where she earned her accounting degree. As a Certified Public Accountant, her career began as a budget analyst for the Department of the Navy, where she was responsible for internal budgeting and external negotiations, overseeing a budget of more that $200 million. Later, she was a tax manager for the San Diego office of Price Waterhouse, one of the world's largest accounting firms. In 1989, April began her own CPA practice that for more than 18 years has provided tax and accounting services to individuals, businesses and political clients. She is one of the leading experts both within the city and the state in campaign finance and helped shape political reporting so that it is fair, accurate and accessible to the public.
An independent thinker who needs no learning curve when she is sworn in to office this December, April will be able to read -- and more importantly, understand -- the city budget and budgets of the various city agencies including the Centre City Development Corporation, Data Processing Corporation, Convention Center Corporation and the Metropolitan Transit System that operates our trolley and bus systems.
I, for one, am ready for a City Council that will work to actually find a way to expand hours at our city recreation centers, swimming pools and libraries, who will work to assure that the city's 900 linear miles of homes fronting on to city open space canyons can rely on regular brush management taking place, and who will work with police, firefighters and lifeguards to enhance public safety.
I trust April to do this. I know she has the skills to do so.
-- CELESTE WEINSHEIM
Wednesday, May 14 -- 6:56 pm
Several respondents have noted Marti Emerald paying special attention to particular problems in the many neighborhoods of the District 7.
In attending meetings in the neighborhoods, walking door to door, and speaking with the voters in the district, she displays the same concern for the people of the district that she displayed as the Troubleshooter.
This is obvious in her many awards ranging from a San Diego Merchant’s Association honor, citation by the U.S. Attorney for “Outstanding Service to Victims of Crime,” countless honors and awards for her consumer reporting and commendations for her volunteerism.
These and many other honors attest to her integrity as a reporter and as a person. She never wavered in attacking the complaints and problems regardless where the investigation led.
This has all been done with the single goal of helping people, resolving problems, focusing on needs and finding a way for people to meet them.
Marti Emerald is committed to one special interest, and only one: the people of the 7th District. Period. That’s her reason for seeking the 7th District council seat.
I know that if elected, she will devote her enormous energy, intelligence, and skills full-time to serving the needs of the people in the district and getting our city back on track.
-- JOHN BEATTYWednesday, May 14 -- 2:42 pm
Marti Emerald’s experience as an investigative reporter and consumer journalist has taught her that the term "accountant" or "CPA" does not bestow some magical infallibility on someone. She has seen, time and again, skilled numbers crunchers simply come up wrong.
April Boling has what some say is an enviable record as treasurer for a variety of Political Action Committees (PACs) and political campaigns. But she also has been cited for violating campaign finance regulations.
Six years ago two fancy named blue ribbon commissions looked at city finances and pension systems. They included CPA Boling. They filed reports saying the city has big financial problems that need to be addressed. They all then folded their notebooks and spreadsheets and walked off. Not one had the desire or gumption to publicly stand up to the mayor, or city manager or city council say "You can’t ignore these problems." There has been more talk about those reports in the past few months than when it might have made a difference.
Marti Emerald has always been ready and willing to speak out about problems and seek realistic solutions, not quick fixes catering to any specific group. Her record shows that.
It’s this approach she can bring to the job at City Hall -- a Troubleshooter at a troubled City Hall.
-- JOHN BEATTYWednesday, May 14 -- 2:44 pm Marti Emerald is the right person at the right time for the District 7 council seat.
She is persistent, perceptive and tenacious.
She isn’t impressed or swayed by titles or positions. She follows the facts wherever
they lead her and to whomever they lead
As the Troubleshooter, she used common sense, with an abundance of energetic fortitude to dethrone swindler kings and shut down investor scam boiler rooms preying on our seniors. She helped put crooked contractors out of business, and all manner of conmen and women behind bars.
I know. She was a colleague of mine at KGTV10 for nearly 20 years.
Day in and day out she pursued bogus business people cheating the taxpayers.
She won’t take no for an answer. She "follows the money."
This is an attitude we need now at city hall: Someone who is willing and able to clear through the bureaucracy and numbers gobbledygook and find out just where all our tax dollars are going.
She believes we need to get performance audits and find out where there might be savings to the taxpayer. End duplication of effort. Streamline operations.
She agrees with the Independent Budget Analyst that there are already millions of dollars sitting around that could be put to use attacking our city’s problems.
She’s not a politician. She’s never run for office before, doesn’t belong to or serve the many groups that serve the needs of the builders and developers. She has served on boards and organization helping individual taxpayers like Catholic Charities and the Lung Association. She was a leader in developing the San Diego mediation center, resolving conflicts.
I believe she could and would bring a net set of eyes and ears to our troubled city hall, with no strings attached, only her commitment to serve the people of the 7th District and all of San Diego.
-- JOHN BEATTYTuesday, May 13 -- 7:38 pm Reader Lee Wilson hits a critical point: Barrio Logan is most definitely the next gentrification battleground. As downtown has redeveloped--particularly after the construction of Petco Park--Barrio Logan residents have seen rents and land prices skyrocket and a trickle of new developments on its border with downtown that signal gentrification and the threat of widespread displacement. EHC members want to see Barrio Logan redeveloped and improved, but to the benefit of its residents, local businesses and historic cultural heritage. But they know that big developers and speculators have other interests.
Stark proof of this dynamic can be found in Eric Wolff’s recent City Beat article. The article includes some amazingly revealing and shockingly disrespectful quotes from developer Greg Paquette--and a dose of good sense from EHC community leader Maria Martinez.
The remarkable thing about this moment for Barrio Logan is that the real estate market has actually given the community room to breathe, and, more importantly, to plan. The gentrification dynamic is probably one of two top reasons the community plan update must be successful, and must be truly community driven. The city faces an uphill battle to balance competing interests and prove that it doesn’t have a hidden agenda to redevelop the neighborhood--whether in service to “smart growth” principles that ignore community needs or to developer profit margins.
-- LAURA BENSONThursday, May 8 -- 4:37 pm Proposition 98 is incredibly deceptive and manipulative, just like that radio ad mentioned by Mister Zhou. It is yet another initiative with multiple hidden agendas -- this time provisions that would gut the ability to affect important land use decisions at the local and community level like affordable housing policies and safe zoning laws that keep polluting industries out of residential neighborhoods.
EHC is doing what it always does most effectively to combat the manipulative and misleading Proposition 98 -- we’re organizing. EHC volunteers are going door-to-door to get our NO on Prop 98 message directly to voters every Saturday in May. Join us! Call Jorge Osuna at (619) 474-0220 x118 to sign up for precinct walking.
-- LAURA BENSONThursday, May 8 -- 12:18 pm
The community of Barrio Logan has been a poster child for injustice of all kinds throughout its history, but has never faced a moment like the present. A convergence of critical events could result in a future model of social and environmental justice, or could change Barrio Logan into a community unrecognizable and unlivable to its displaced former residents.
What’s happening in Barrio Logan?
The Community Plan Update: In the absence of city action, Environmental Health Coalition’s Barrio Logan Community Action Team developed the Barrio Logan Vision through a grassroots community-driven planning process that included residents, businesses and community organizations. Now the community plan update -- the first under the city’s new General Plan -- has finally commenced. Will the city adopt the community’s vision? Or will it allow special interests to dominate or undermine the planning process, leaving the future up to the developers longing to replace the current neighborhood and make big bucks at the expense of current residents?
The Mercado Project: Long on the list of injustices visited upon the neighborhood, the Mercado Project always promised to be Barrio Logan’s signature revitalization project. Will the city be successful in choosing a new developer and building a project that brings affordable housing and small business opportunities as EHC and the Barrio Logan Vision demand? Or will the pursuit of profits win out?
The Port: The Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal and port tenants on the working waterfront are both a source of Barrio Logan’s unjust burden of air pollution and living wage jobs. EHC convinced the port to develop a Clean Air Plan to reduce emissions, but will it ever be given the teeth it needs to take a major bite out of diesel pollution in the neighborhood? Or will big development interests redevelop the terminal into an extension of the downtown waterfront, paving the way for full scale gentrification and displacement?
Proposition 98: Will a state proposition, in the guise of eminent domain reform, effectively gut our right to community planning, local environmental initiatives and affordable housing policies? EHC opposes Prop 98. Will voters agree, or will these local efforts in Barrio Logan be in vain?
EHC has worked directly with residents through community organizing, advocacy and leadership development for over two decades and will be fighting to ensure that the long overdue light of justice finally shines on Barrio Logan as it sits at this amazing crossroads. What do you think the future holds for Barrio Logan?
-- LAURA BENSONWednesday, May 7 -- 8:10 pm
Here are some statistics about death in San Diego County over the last several years:
- 2006
Accidental deaths: 1161
Homicides: 152
Suicides: 313 (27 by jumping)
- 2005
Accidental deaths: 1092
Homicides: 129
Suicides: 317 (25 by jumping)
- 2004
Accidental deaths: 1084
Homicides: 150
Suicides: 314 (23 by jumping)
- 2003
Accidental deaths: 1014
Homicides: 161
Suicides: 329 (23 by jumping)
- 2002
Accidental deaths: 990
Homicides: 102
Suicides 325 (19 by jumping)
It's remarkable how consistent these numbers are. Each year, about 320 people in the county kill themselves. Even the number who kill themselves by jumping (off bridges, buildings, overpasses, cliffs) is about the same each year.
(The statistics, by the way, come from the county medical examiner's office; 2007 stats weren't available. Full reports with a lot more numbers are on the office's website.)
And where does the Coronado Bridge fit in? From 2002-2007, the number of suicide deaths ranged from one to nine. It's hard to read much into those numbers, but one of the highest death tolls -- 11 -- came in 1993, on the heels of tough economic times in 1992.
And the highest death toll ever -- 16 -- was in 1980, a very bad time for the country economically. Perhaps there's a connection.
♦♦♦
Reader Marie writes:
I liked your articles very much and discussed them with friends and family. It seems that many of us believe that if a person wants to commit suicide, perhaps they should be able to. Since there aren't currently any legal ways to commit suicide, folks have to go to extreme measures to do so. At least jumping from the Coronado Bridge is not hurting other people. Except in the case where the police intervened and a police dog was killed. This opens up the whole other issue of how we view suicide in this country. Are you willing to tackle that issue next?
Thanks for the kind words.
I'm not sure that jumping from the bridge is harmless to others. I didn't get a chance to explore this in the stories, but there are many people other than family and friends who are affected by bridge suicides. Think of those who witness the suicides -- motorists, cops, people on sailboats, even Navy sailors on ships. It's horribly traumatic.
And don't forget the Harbor Police who must pull the dead out of the bay. As for tackling the larger issue of a right to suicide, I would need a way to personalize it.
Reader Thomas writes:
I doubt that the City of San Diego's willingness to erect fences on several of its freeway overpasses could be mimicked on the Coronado Bay Bridge since the Board of San Diego Port Commissioners would have to vote on the matter. Look at the Port's current preoccupation with soliciting bids for its new public art project to illuminate the Coronado Bay Bridge. The Port has budgeted 2 to 3 million dollars for this future display of lights!!! I'd say these funds could go to making both a functional and artistic barrier that San Diego could be proud of.
Well, there is a port commissioner who has a great interest in mental-health issues and whose own brother survived a fall from the bridge. Finally, reader J.R. writes: Recently, the Pacific News Service had a piece on a cleric who regularly walks the SF Bay Bridge on his own time, at his own direction, in an effort to help those intending suicide. It seems to be good work; the gentleman has saved a few lives. One hopes a few of the local clerics might follow their colleague's example here. But besides that, the issue of barriers on bridges may be a feel-good idea that substitutes for effective outreach to the distraught. Like lifeguards at the beaches, spending money to save lives is money well spent. The same ought to apply to suicide prevention here, too. Involving the clergy is an interesting idea, but logistically it might be difficult. -- RANDY DOTINGAWednesday, May 7 -- 12:21 pm
If you drive down Highway 163 or Interstate 5 in San Diego and glance skyward, you'll see lots of pedestrian bridges with fences. Look closely and you might notice something unusual: the fences are quite high, sometimes well over six feet.
Why are the fences so tall? Because people kept hurtling rocks and blocks of concrete over the railings, injuring drivers below.
Longtime residents may remember the most horrific case, when two boys threw a six-pound concrete block from an I-5 overpass onto the windshield of a Corvette in 1988.
The impact fractured a passenger's skull, sent him into a months-long coma and ended his career as an actor and model. Other motorists were seriously injured by debris, including several in 2000.
The California Department of Transportation responded by erecting fences on several overpasses. Judging from news reports, the problem seems to have faded away.
But Caltrans hasn't put up any fences on the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge, where 236 people--and counting--have thrown themselves to their deaths. The railing is still just three feet tall.
I wrote about this topic last week in a series of stories:
Tuesday, May 6 -- 7:41 pm
Hi Sparky,
Thanks for your comments and questions. I agree there is a time from election, until you "catch up," on the workings of city hall. An advantage Paul brings to this position is that he has served (appointed volunteer) for many years in positions where he had to work closely with the bureaucracy and political appointees. His "ojt" will be shortened by his ability to go right to the matter. Besides, Paul is a straight shooter and not afraid to go public when he sees things go down behind closed doors that impact his constituents. And Paul has great admiration for Donna Frye, and Donna would be happy to help a fellow "peoples candidate" get acquainted with (in order to change) the old system.
With regard to solar panels on city buildings: not all buildings are energy ready and will require some retrofit. But with energy savings brought about by better planning, coupled with the skyrocketing fuel price that can be offset by switching to alternative energy and more efficient use of resources, we are well on our way. And, as most of you know, the power companies across the nation MUST buy any excess energy produced by this effort, so the excess will be part of "the grid" and will generate income that will pay off any bonds or debt incurred in building our self supporting system. Of course that will require a sound financial footing for the city than the current council has provided, and we trust the voters know what to do about that. And electing Paul Broadway is a big step in the right direction.
The four year, one term limit Paul placed on himself is a real challenge. But as most insiders know, from day one a political office becomes a campaign office. Everything done from that point on by the candidate and his staff is geared to his/her re-election or election to another office. It is the way of doing business and perpetuates the appearance that the elected official is working for the average Joe, when in reality he is working to gain himself and his staff another four years of taxpayer supported employment and a generous pension at a young age.
Finally, Paul knows that a smart leader surrounds himself with a good staff. And Chief of Staff is a critical position, especially with a full agenda. Now, I know this answer will have some political fallout, but in trying to adhere to Paul's high standard of honesty, I'll tell you who Paul would first offer the job to: Stephen Whitburn. Because, like Paul, Mr. Whitburn has a love for and knowledge of the 3rd district. And Paul believes that with the proper direction, Stephen could help Paul get this city back on the right track. And as you know, staff makes more money than their bosses. Paul wouldn't find a problem with that. But there will be plenty of time for staff selection. Right now we are concentrating on getting Paul elected so he'll be in the position to hire Stephen, or anyone else. My thanks to you, and the others who wrote. You can reach Paul, or me, through: www.broadwaypub.com Or, write me directly at: neighborhoodnation@gmail.com.
-- ED WIGDAHLTuesday, May 6 -- 1:56 pm
Over the last week, I enjoyed reading the arguments made on behalf of the various District 3 candidates. It’s become apparent that the experience, understanding, relationships, and accountability of Stephen Whitburn is what makes him the most qualified candidate to represent the people at City Hall.
Stephen’s experience spans the corporate, non-profit, and government sectors. As an 18-year journalist, he knows the demands of business and the need to meet a bottom line. As an American Red Cross spokesperson promoting the organization’s life-saving blood drives, Stephen often builds coalitions with businesses and government. And as a community activist who serves on the North Park Planning Committee and regularly testifies at City Council meetings, he appreciates how neighborhood voices must be involved in making decisions.
He also brings a compassion and understanding to District 3 that is unparalleled. As a renter, Stephen is familiar with the struggle faced by working families who search for affordable housing. As the only fluent Spanish speaker in the race, he is best positioned to hear and understand the concerns shared by the large Spanish-speaking population in District 3. Stephen is the Red Cross’ Spanish-speaking liaison and recognizes that the only way to empower all constituencies is to guarantee they can directly communicate with their elected officials.
Crucial to getting things done at City Hall is having relationships with elected and neighborhood leaders. As president of the Democratic Club of San Diego for three years, Stephen worked with elected officials at City Hall, in the state legislature, and Congress. As a North Park Planning Committee member, he partners with community leaders who work to build vibrant business districts and safe residential areas.
Perhaps most importantly, Stephen will not be beholden to developers in making decisions that affect the city. He wants them to pay for road and sewer improvements when building new housing or commercial projects. He wants them to bear some of the costs for meeting the increased need for new police and firefighting services.
Stephen Whitburn is the reform candidate committed to making government work again for San Diegans. He’s the one with the experience, understanding, relationships, and accountability to be sure it’s the people who have a say in our government n not just the powerful downtown interests.
-- SEAN WHERLEYMonday, May 5 -- 9:27 pm
When we talk about James Hartline, we envision two pillars of this great city that would be strengthened under James Hartline’s leadership, that being our children and our seniors.
First, I would like to address the pillar of our society that represents our future and next generation of leaders, our children.
If we do not teach our children individual responsibility; respect for authority, self, others and property, we will in the end have failed in our duty to our children and to this country. It is our responsibility as parents and citizens to educate our children, provide opportunities for their success, and above all, protect them.
In 2005, James discovered that a number of registered sex offenders were working inside the San Diego Gay Pride organization. Upon further investigation, James found that a registered pedophile entertained young children at one of their sponsored events, under the guise of a seemingly innocent Garden venue, at the Gay Pride festival.
This is important because children are being targeted across the nation and in this city, while people on the Council are turning a blind eye and making proclamations to the very perpetrators of these offenses. Do they care about pornography visible for young eyes? Do they care about porn shops and bathhouses in close proximity to children? When adults ignore potential risks to our youth, for their own agendas, self gain and self indulgences, we have lost our way.
If it had not been for the vigilance of James Hartline, who knows how many children could have been preyed upon.
When will the people of San Diego recognize the common sense leader and watchful servant that is James Hartline?
-- PRISCILLA SCHREIBERMonday, May 5 -- 9:27 pm
One cannot discuss the issues these days, at the San Diego City Council, without some kind of controversial proclamation or resolution on the agenda. It is sad, that those who try to bring common sense to the debate, to counter the immoral assaults leveled upon the people of the city, are considered either not credible or disregarded. How did this body become so political and stray from their charge to manage responsibly?
One man in particular, has stood up to the Council time after time to protect all youth, eliminate harmful pornographic businesses near schools, protect children from venues of adult propaganda and work toward protecting the great heritage that people across America are proud of .
James Hartline is a man who at a very young age experienced betrayal, and the consequences of his actions, to survive in a world which cast him into the shadows of despair. James overcame the hand he was dealt. His story is an example that we as educators hear all the time. Students who have so much to give, who long for the hope and help to experience life-changing opportunities for their future.
To James’s credit he has achieved more by doing, then those who just talk. He is a man, who’s not afraid of opposition; he does not fear man and will not back down from his convictions. James is a man of integrity, with a servant’s heart and a strong commitment to the safety and welfare of this community. He is a hard worker with the willingness to invest himself and serve tirelessly. He has an investigative nature and will seek solutions through fact finding. He is result oriented, organized and focused.
I first met James about 7 years ago working at the grassroots level on many of the same issues he has addressed to the City Council. James and I, along with many others, will continue standing for the values and the moral principles that have been under attack and will leave the next generations to come, asking how did this happen? We both, in our respective paths have the opportunity to educate and inform people of what’s at stake for our future. If we don’t protect and defend our constitution and with fortitude, raise up our collective moral conscience, we will fall.
James is growing in wisdom, first and foremost from Almighty God, through which he exhibits the redemptive qualities that are so often overlooked in a throw-away society.
I am proud to support and endorse James Hartline, District 3, San Diego City Council.
-- PRISCILLA SCHREIBERMonday, May 5 -- 9:23 am
If we put solar panels on ALL the rooftops of the couple of thousand buildings owned by the city we can produce enough power that Sempra would have to cut a check to the city. It sure would be nice to have Paul Broadway on the Council when Sempra comes to negotiate a new franchise agreement. This installation may make the Sunrise Power Link unnecessary?
Paul has pledged to serve only one term if elected He detests candidates getting elected and before the name plate is changed on the door, they are running for re-election or another office instead of doing the job they were just elected to do. Paul claims he can do in four years what the current council wouldn’t do in 8 years. Please go to www.broadwaypub.com and see what Paul has helped accomplish without ever being elected.
On a side note: Paul refuses ALL campaign contributions so it is great to get this chance to talk with you on voice's dime. I challenge all campaign spokespersons on the Café San Diego, to make a donation, the size of your choosing, to Vof SD. They have another sponsor who will match every dollar we give. Having no budget like some of you on the special interest teat, I can only throw in a $20. But if everyone would throw in a $20, with the matching donor, it could be the best idea that came out of the Café SD in several weeks.
Let’s get some feedback readers. Just because I didn’t toss any F-bombs or attack your candidate, that doesn’t give you the right to not attack us. Maybe we’ll win it in the primary and save the developers money.
Thank you for reading. Come to www.broadwaypub.com and enjoy!
-- ED WIGDAHLFriday, May 2 -- 3:58 pm
“A politician thinks of the next election - a statesman of the next generation.”- James Freeman Clarke
I’ve known Paul Broadway since he was a young sailor stationed in Coronado. He would stop in for a few beers at our neighborhood pub, often accompanied by Navy Seals and other sailors, who looked up to Paul because of his experience in martial arts and knowledge of world affairs. I enjoyed talking with Paul because he always knew something about nearly everything. But first he would listen to what I or someone else would have to say. And that impressed me. And I’m still impressed. Paul doesn’t put on airs, and when he explains his take on an issue, his answers are clear and always respectful of the opposing side's opinion. His very calm nature invites open discussion, punctuated by breaks of laughter, but always seeming to end with a consensus among those in the debate of how best to solve any particular problem. I’ve been to lots of neighborhood, recreation council and other meetings where I’ve witnessed Paul bring opposing sides together where they can reach common ground on many long standing disputes.
“At the Broadways', all differences in politics are secondary to the overall goal of bringing openness and honesty back to city government.” Steve Casey, volunteer
Being at a campaign strategy meeting for Paul Broadway is an experience unlike any other I’ve had in my many years of political involvement. When you arrive at his home, you are met first by Paul’s 13-year-old dog Spencer, a friendly canine who greats you with two or three wags of his tail, and a look that tells guests to sit anywhere, except on his corner of the couch. Cold beer and hot dogs make up the menu on most meeting nights, and a tray of deviled eggs or fresh fruit are appetizing snacks placed just out of reach of Spencer. At the dining room table sits Marcia Broadway, Paul’s wife of 21 years grading her students' homework assignments. Rock and roll is on the stereo, and if it was any place else but the Broadway home on a Friday campaign meeting night, I’d have guessed I was at the beginnings of a pretty nice party. Here's a few reasons why we are here (more will be posted later):
Paul refuses all campaign donations and does not seek endorsements from any group or individuals. He only asks for your vote. In trade, Paul promises to represent you.
Paul has the support of many cops and firefighters, retirees and students, families and friends who walk precincts and hand paint the signs on recycled paper, urging all to Elect Paul Broadway to City Council.
Paul is a homeowner and carpools to work or takes the bus and trolley.
Paul has a broad spectrum of work experience in both the government and private sector. Besides being a former business owner, policeman, correctional officer, government administrator and manager, Paul has served on the Greater Golden Hill Planning Committee for two terms; the 32nd Street Canyon Task force; the Federal Safety Council; and he was the chairman of the Parks Subcommittee for the GGHPC. He is currently the Chairman of the Golden Hill Recreation Council; a member of the San Diego City Parks II Committee; and a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, post 7420 in Barrio Logan. A more complete list is available on his website.
-- ED WIGDAHLThursday, May 1 -- 7:06 pm Hello, fellow voice readers. It is interesting to note the tone and content of most of the entries today. I am surprised at the personal and vituperative nature of the comments by many. It seems that those taking the time to write are more interested in personal attacks on gay people, union people, and business people than in discussing the issues.
That is one more reason to support Todd Gloria: he doesn’t play that game.
Todd uses his energy and considerable intellect to tackle tough issues. He has proven his independence by suing developers who don’t play by the rules--and winning, to the benefit of all of us. He opposed the 301 University Ave. development in Hillcrest because it was too dense and would create traffic problems. He has worked effectively as a congressional aide to help bring federal resources to improve our city.
Bill Clinton was only three years older than Todd when he became governor of Arkansas. Todd has been working at the grassroots in local charity and political causes since he was a teenager. He brings people together and works to get things done. That is why he supported by such an incredible number of people -- firefighters and police officers, teachers, health care workers and many more.
If you think our city is best served by candidates who spend their energy attacking others, you would be well served to vote for someone else. All you will get from Todd Gloria is intelligence, honesty, and hard work. You’ll need to count on others for the fireworks. Personally, I would rather have substance than fluff and flame, but I guess that’s why we have elections, so people can choose for themselves.
-- BOB NELSONThursday, May 1 -- 12:18 pm
Police officers, firefighters, and the League of Conservation Voters support Todd Gloria for policy reasons.
Mine are more personal.
I got to know Todd when a friend needed help on an immigration matter. I was referred by my congressional representative to her aide, Todd Gloria. He was compassionate, efficient and smart. At the time I thought, “This guy should run for office, not just be an aide.”
Later, on the board of the LGBT Center I watched Todd rise to become chairperson. He led us through tough issues involving hate, homeless youth, health care, and civil rights. His roots as a native San Diegan and his family ties in many ethnic communities were especially useful integrating our LGBT community with the larger community around us.
It turns out that Todd has been a community volunteer since his teen years. Before he was old enough for a driver’s license, Todd rode the bus to volunteer for charities and political campaigns. He relates to our district at a grassroots level like no one else.
After decades of community service it is no surprise that Todd -- like both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton -- is receiving support from large numbers of local donors. In a cheap shot, one of his opponents likes to say Todd gets more money from developers. That is probably true, because Todd leads in almost every category imaginable: the most doctors, teachers, nurses, homemakers, engineers, you name it. And lots of just plain folk like me -- a consultant for public school teachers -- and my partner-- a respiratory therapist for Children’s Hospital.
But policy issues are just as important as a strong character. And Todd Gloria’s positions on big issues deserve some mention, as well.
The Police Officers Association backs Todd because he has a specific plan to restore community relations officers to our neighborhoods. He also wants the police force to put more resources where crime is greatest; unfortunately today that means District 3.
The Firefighters Association endorses Todd because he wants neighborhood fire stations upgraded with modern equipment. I live on the lip of a canyon, so Todd’s concern about fire safety really hits home with me.
Some people in the real estate industry don’t like Todd because of his strict record as a San Diego Housing Commissioner. But I care more about Todd’s endorsement from the League of Conservation Voters. As a Housing Commissioner, Todd was polite but forceful, suing and winning against bad developers who tried to abuse the law. He also opposed the massive 301 University project, backed affordable housing requirements, and a stronger condo conversion ordinance.
I plan to live in my home here in the 3rd District the rest of my life. My neighbors and I have received excellent service from council members Christine Kehoe and Toni Atkins. I’d like to see that kind of service continue and I believe Todd Gloria is best qualified to work hard and get things done for our community.
BOB NELSONDate: 4/30/08 In a city which has seen more than its recent share of political corruption and financial mismanagement, there is no better time to elect reform candidate Stephen Whitburn for City Council District 3. His understanding of government and willingness to challenge the status quo is the perfect combination for restoring the public’s trust and getting our city back on track.
I met Stephen in 2006 while I was working at the San Diego LGBT Community Center and immediately connected with him. I grew up in the same Wisconsin community where he became an award-winning journalist, and upon meeting him, I was struck by his desire to listen and his affable personality. He impressed me as the type of person who we all want to represent us in elected office: a guy who prefers open government rather than political games.
Let’s face it--we need more people who are willing to mix things up downtown. The city of San Diego is in a financial mess and too often it’s the developers and hoteliers who dictate the direction and pace of what happens in our city. If we hope to return the balance of power to our neighborhoods, then we need a strong, independent leader in District 3.
Stephen serves on the North Park Planning Committee and understands how the voice of neighborhoods can become muffled amidst the smooth handshakes of well-connected developers. Look no further than the Kensington Terrace project, or the 301 University Avenue housing project in Hillcrest--both of which were proposed against the wishes of neighborhood residents. Stephen opposed them both as they were originally designed.
As an 18-year reporter, Stephen asked elected officials the tough questions and kept them honest in the process. That’s the same integrity he wants to bring to City Hall, and why he supports an elected--not appointed--city auditor. Restoring fiscal sanity to San Diego will only begin with a bookkeeper who answers to voters--just like in America’s five largest cities--and not to the mayor or City Council.
Stephen’s agenda for District 3 is straightforward: repave our streets, repair our sidewalks, hire more police and firefighters, and reassure people that government can once again be trusted.
His brand of progressive politics helped earn Stephen the endorsement of the Sierra Club, the San Diego County Democratic Party, Congressman Bob Filner, Councilmember Donna Frye, former Senator Lucy Killea and many others who appreciate the need to challenge downtown’s entrenched interests.
Let’s make San Diego a model city once again--let’s elect Stephen Whitburn to help make that happen.
-- SEAN WHERLEYDate: 4/29/08 I have known Robert for some time now, and have worked with him on a number of community issues. I have also shared his frustration over unsolved problems facing our city. I agree with Robert when he says: “Enough is enough!”
As he campaigns around District 3, San Diego City Council candidate, Robert E. Lee, reminds taxpayers and voters of these facts:
- In 2005, two San Diego City council members resigned in shame, accused of accepting bribes from individuals associated with an “adult entertainment” club.
- Five currently sitting council members were deemed “negligent” in their fiduciary duties to San Diego taxpayers and bondholders by an investigative agency.
- Five former San Diego city officials recently had civil securities fraud charges filed against them by federal regulators.
- As a result of intentional under funding, the San Diego city employees’ pension fund deficit exceeded $1 billion in recent years.
- The San Diego city employees’ medical care fund deficit has recently approached $1 billion.
- The “infrastructure deficit” -- needed repairs and upgrades to our roads, sidewalks, water system, sewage treatment system, storm runoff, and buildings and other facilities -- far exceeds $1 billion.
- Because of these and other financial shenanigans, all three major public bond ratings agencies either suspended or sharply downgraded the city of San Diego’s credit ratings.
With these and other facts in mind, Robert believes, “Enough is enough!”, and that San Diego citizens, taxpayers and voters are demanding a return of Ethics and Integrity to City Hall. When a culture of unethical, and even unlawful, behavior so permeates the business of city government, San Diegans see that the required and expected duties of city officeholders and officials simply fall by the wayside. And San Diego taxpayers literally end up paying the price for this kind of unacceptable behavior. If he is elected to the San Diego City Council, I know Robert will work hard to restore Ethics and Integrity, and to implement systems of accountability and transparency, to city operations.
On the major, “meat and potatoes” issues of everyday city governance, Robert is running on his “3 and 3” plan for change, emphasizing a trio of important District 3 issues and three critical citywide issues:
In District 3:
- Crime prevention: Increase the police presence in District 3, including the restoration of the community, police storefronts. Prosecute offenders to the full extent of the law. Grow and support Neighborhood Watch groups.
- Transportation and mobility improvements. Improve mass transit, including upgrading the University Avenue and El Cajon Boulevard transit centers, incorporating Bus Rapid Transit, and adding more express bus routes. Upgrade and repair our streets. Better synchronize traffic lights, especially during rush hours.
- Support economic and small business development, so we can shop and keep our hard-earned dollars in our small, locally-owned, neighborhood businesses.
Citywide:
- Pension and fiscal reform. We simply cannot pay for needed programs and improvements until we get our city finances in order. We must spend our finite, taxpayer dollars in efficient and effective ways that benefit the most number of citizens, not the narrow special interests.
- Infrastructure repair and upgrade. Crumbling streets and sidewalks, bursting water mains, and sewage leaks that pollute our waterways and cause beach closures are just some of the very real symptoms of our “infrastructure deficit”.
- Public Safety n Police and Fire n retention and upgrade. Retain and increase our police and fire professionals, and bring emergency vehicles and equipment and facilities up to standard. When citizens feel unsafe and unprotected, the other issues do not matter.
I know Robert, I have seen his determination and I trust his integrity as I do with very few people. He is, I believe, the only candidate running for the city council who has the unique combination of personal integrity, determination, hard work ethic, and common sense to end the Band-Aid approach we have seen far too much for too many years.
Robert E. Lee pledges to bring fresh, new changes to City Hall ... and I believe him. And I know he's the right person for the job, which is why I’m supporting Robert E. Lee for District 3 City Council on June 3, and I hope you will, too.
-- RALPH DENNEYMonday, April 28 -- 7:08 pm
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Behind the Counter
A different local personality hosts Café San Diego every weekday (or at least that's what we're going for).
 Today is rebuttal day in Café San Diego for supporters of District 7 candidates.
This Week (May 12 - May 16):
District 7
 Wednesday: Supporters Debate: John Beatty for Marti Emerald Thursday: Supporters Debate: Celeste Weinsheim for April Boling
The mayor wants a new pension plan on the November ballot.
Friday, May 16 -- 10:13 am
One important detail to keep in mind.
Friday, May 16 -- 8:58 am
Mayor says the unions need to unite behind a pension plan or he's going to the voters.
Thursday, May 15 -- 6:52 pm
SURVIVAL IN SAN DIEGO
Filings up 103 percent over the year.
Wednesday, May 14 -- 11:33 am
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Why are we allowing unreasonable people to demand that we spend money to disturb the seal colony that so many people enjoy visiting?
Thursday, May 15 -- 1:58 pm
CAFÉ SAN DIEGO
Marti Emerald can bring all of these assets to City Hall.
Thursday, May 15 -- 7:50 pm
COMMENTARY: SLOP
'The community knows what I have to offer.'
Thursday, May 15 -- 6:32 pm
COMMENTARY: RICH TOSCANO
Foreclosure filings piled up at their fastest pace yet in April.
Monday, May 12 -- 11:37 pm
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