Category Archives: Positions
A Business Owner on the Council
Small businesses are incredibly important to Albany’s quality of life. Where would we be without the small retail, services, and restaurants in our city? Jewel Okawachi was the last person with small-business experience to serve on the Albany City Council.
Supporting Local Businesses
Every candidate in this race lists supporting local businesses as a priority. It is a relief to me to know that all the candidates understand the importance of our business community to Albany’s quality of life. Through my association with … Continue reading
Who am I voting for?
One of the true pleasures of this campaign has been getting know all of the other candidates. Through the events, large and small, where we have appeared together, I’ve had a chance to talk to each of them and learn … Continue reading
Measure “F” — the Half-Cent Sales Tax
I am supporting Albany Measure F — the measure to add a half-cent to sales tax in the city. This money will come directly to Albany and is needed in this time of reduced revenue. I generally dislike sales taxes … Continue reading
Balanced… Decisive… Leadership…?
For my campaign branding, I chose “balanced… decisive… leadership…,” and many have asked me just what those mean. Balanced With “balanced,” I mean that I am open- and fair- minded. I am a pragmatist who will make decisions based on … Continue reading
Health Insurance for Councilmembers
For their service, citizens who sit on the Albany City Council are provided a stipend of $300 per month, plus health insurance coverage (or additional money if they already have health insurance). There has been controversy (look here, here, and … Continue reading
UC Village Development
I have been a strong supporter of the planned retail and senior housing development on UC land on San Pablo (the “Whole Foods” project). I believe the current Council acted wisely and in the best interest of all of Albany … Continue reading
Cell Antenna Installation
There has been significant resistance to the installation or upgrade of cell phone base stations in the city. As a consequence, cell phone reception is very poor in Albany, especially for AT&T customers. AT&T does not have a facility in … Continue reading
In a Nutshell Positions
Here are Tod’s positions (in a nutshell) regarding some current issues. UC Village Mixed Use Development Tod continues to support this project, believing it will revitalize a key section of San Pablo Avenue, will provide needed income for the city, … Continue reading
Cell Towers and the Public Process
I think that the denial of the AT&T application was a mistake, an obvious mistake, and one that harms many citizens, while helping no one. Continue reading