Our Neighborhood Compatibility Ordinance (NCO) helps preserve the character of our City and limit the impact of new development on the views, natural light, and privacy of existing neighbors. I support faithful application of the NCO to new development and approval for projects that conform to its guidelines.

Recent statewide legislation has restricted local control of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Sacramento has invalidated both local ordinances and private deed restrictions that prevented the construction of ADUs in areas zoned for single-family homes. I oppose this overreach and support efforts to limit the impact of this legislation and to lobby Sacramento for relief.

Our Parklands are central to the character of Palos Verdes Estates and their preservation is essential to maintain our quality of life and support property values. The City should never attempt to sell Parklands and should vigorously enforce the removal of Parklands encroachments.

Parklands should be maintained in a manner that respects the vision of our City founders. Natural areas should be maintained in a manner consistent with local ecology. Designated neighborhood parks should be maintained in a manner that is consistent with neighborhood character.

Keeping our PVE Police Department is the best way to ensure the safety of our community and maintain local control. While neighboring cities struggle with unsolved crimes, our local PVE Police Department is responsible to our residents and stands as a model of community policing.

Managing costs remains an on-going challenge and the City should continue to look for opportunities to control costs and reduce pension liability. The City Council should be open to opportunities to reduce expenses while maintaining the high level of service we all expect.

I support efforts to develop and operate against a long-term plan, balance short-term budgets, seek grants to supplement revenue, and reduce existing pension liability. None of our goals for ensuring public safety and maintaining our community character can be achieved without a careful eye on City finances.

This City Council needs to take bold action to shore up revenue and reduce costs. The number of pensionable positions should be limited and the use of outside vendors subject to competitive bidding should be encouraged with appropriate oversight. While the Finance Advisory Committee (FAC) should receive the support it needs to make recommendations, our City Council cannot be afraid to take action.

Preserving the character of our City stands among the most important goals of the City Council. Maintaining our trees, landscaping, and infrastructure is key to preserving the character of our City, supporting property values, and ensuring a high quality of life for residents.

We should not continue to accrue deferred maintenance which will cost us more in the long run. Overgrown City trees create a hazard for residents and their homes. Weed-filled medians and dry City fountains reduce property values and tax revenue. As a Council Member, I will work to ensure the legacy of Palos Verdes Estates is preserved for future generations.