BACPAC Makes Endorsements for Mayor, City Council

The Pleasanton Chamber’s Business and Community Political Action Committee (BACPAC) is pleased to announce its endorsements for Mayor and City Council in this November’s election.

Decisions were based on interviews with all candidates and a recent public forum sponsored by the BACPAC in which candidates addressed priorities and answered questions rooted in Pleasanton 2015: A Community Vision, the Chamber’s local public policy platform with goals for the economy, jobs, education, transportation, public safety, health, housing, arts, leadership, culture and recreation.

Mayor’s Race:

In his first term as mayor, Jerry Thorne made good on his pledge to focus on fiscal accountability, jobs, Bernal Park Phase 2, cemetery improvements and shopping locally. He solidly represents Pleasanton on regional, state and national boards and commissions while remaining a staunch advocate for local control of land use. Thorne is best qualified to lead our city and deserves re-election.

City Council Race:

Kathy Narum’s experience as a hardworking Parks Commissioner and Planning Commissioner for more than a decade enabled her to hit the ground running after winning a special election to fill the Council seat Thorne vacated two years ago following his being elected mayor. Narum is passionate about retaining our small town charm, maintaining a healthy business environment and improving both quality and availability of water for the region. She deserves re-election and the opportunity to serve a full four-year term.

In Arne Olson, Olivia Sanwong and George Bowen Pleasanton is fortunate to have three thoughtful and engaging challengers vying for the seat being vacated by Cheryl Cook-Kallio due to term limits. Cook-Kallio has a well-earned reputation for doing her homework, and consistently acting in the best interests of the total community.

Over the past eight years we have observed these same characteristics in Arne Olson in his service as a Planning Commissioner. More than anything else, experience sets Olson apart from his competition; he is well prepared to take the next step. Additionally, as a retired banking executive, Olson will bring invaluable financial expertise to the Council as our City seeks to reduce its unfunded pension liabilities and streamline city services while maintaining the highest of standards for safe neighborhoods, schools and business centers.

Finally, while there will be an opportunity at a later time to recognize retiring Council Member Cook Kallio for her great service to our community, we would be remiss not to do so at this time. Congratulations Cheryl, and thank you for helping Pleasanton to remain one of the very best communities in America in which to live, work and raise a family.