In a tight race for the District 1 Seal Beach City Council seat, Ellery Deaton and Joe Kalmick are in a runoff election to be decided in January of 2011.
This week, the candidates had 500 words to answer the question: Why are you the best candidate?
Joe Kalmick
I believe that I am the best candidate for the District 1 Council seat simply because I would be the most reasonable.
An effective decision maker must be able to evaluate all of the elements of the issue under consideration and reach a conclusion that will benefit the majority of the community, not just a group with special interests or narrow views. And by being open to the views of those one might generally be in disagreement with, better decisions will follow.
That I am now endorsed and supported by the former District 1 candidates speaks to that ability.
As a long time Main Street business owner I understand the issues facing the local merchants trying to make a living in today’s economy. By careful budgeting, improvements to Main St., such as new lighting, uniform sidewalk paving, and appropriate trees with lights, will create a new ambience that will encourage shopping by both visitors and residents.
Also, having a business background even beyond my Main Street experience has taught me fiscal responsibility, personnel management skills, and how to build strong interpersonal relations. These are all skills that will translate into being an effective Council member.
The Council is going to be faced with hiring a new City Manager. This will be an extremely important decision as the final development issues are dealt with, and we move forward in a dangerous economic climate. I would want a city manager with a strong background in working with existing assets, and who could demonstrate past success in having a transparent relationship with the council members.
The GSA is preparing to dispose of the old Pacific Electric right-of-way, which runs from 15th and the North side of Electric, through 16th and 17th streets to Seal Beach Bl. The City will be given the opportunity to acquire this property before it is possibly sold for private development. This area could become a wonderful neighborhood park, and we should make every effort to make this acquisition.
The council must unravel the DWP property litigation and finalize a development agreement with the property owners—while maintaining the 70% open space portion.
Regarding the development of a new community swimming pool, before we begin the debate as to where it should be located we should first determine which potential locations are viable and affordable.
I believe that a smart, conservative fiscal policy, and the ability to bring consensus to the Council’s actions can allow us to achieve these amenities for our community. And I feel that I can be an effective, non partisan part of city’s efforts.
Ellery Deaton
My qualifications for serving on the City Council are: my record of service to the community, the experience gained as a Planning Commissioner and long time resident, and the time I have to devote to serving on the Council.
Through serving our community as an active volunteer in many local organizations including Friends of the Library and Woman’s Club among others, I’ve gained knowledge of what our residents and businesses want and have proven that I work until the job gets done.
As a Planning Commissioner I’ve helped both residents and businesses accomplish their goals.
I’ve been elected by my peers to be Chairwoman of the Commission for the last four years because of my respectful, unifying leadership style.
District One is made up of Old Town and Surfside. I’ve worked to keep Old Town the village that makes it unique and worked to be sure Surfside keeps the Colony lifestyle they enjoy.
As a long time resident and grandmother, I’ve worked to keep our small town unspoiled for the next generation.
I’m committed to keeping our quality of life the highest anywhere through insisting on clean, well maintained beaches, parks, sidewalks and streets; a vibrant, well lit, and successful Main Street.
As a retired teacher, I have the time, energy and know-how to devote to the job.
My experience as a Planning Commissioner, active community volunteer, and long time resident with the time to devote to this important position uniquely qualifies me to serve on the City Council.
Service, experience, leadership and the time to get the job done.
Please vote for Ellery Deaton.
ElectEllery.com.
