Election Day is May 21, 2013
This is a critical time for Parkrose. With two Parkrose Board of Education members declining to run again, and one recently appointed board member declining to run for a full term, this election could be a watershed for the school district.
Because I have been to most of the states and many other countries, I can say Portland is a great city; one could argue that it is the best city in the best state in the greatest country in the world.
I moved here in 1991 after completing active duty in the Army and graduate school. I share Oregonians’ ethic of enlightened progressivism, common sense environmentalism, and socially responsible business practices.
I own a small business and have a family in the city.
I want to see the Parkrose School District be more successful serving its citizens. I love our city and the people in it. I have the desire and an obligation to increase my involvement in the school district’s management.
While running my business for the last thirteen years I’ve met and spoken with people from all corners of the city and all walks of life. I’ve heard some of their frustrations, concerns, and fears. I’ve asked about their wishes, hopes and plans for the city. Listening to them led me to seek public office.
Like most voters I meet, I am frustrated with poor decisions the board has made. I’m tired of decisions made behind closed doors that cause turmoil and roil the community: the Rossi land condemnation and the board’s failure to avoid labor strife in the district. I do not see the value of hiring expensive consultants for the council to “communicate” with the Parkrose voters. I question the judgement of allowing the superintendent to run the district with little board oversight.
Of the people running for the school board, none have a business background. I know what it is like to make a payroll. When I pay taxes, I know what I can’t spend on something else. I know how precious our tax dollars are. With my taxes and yours, I want the City to buy what makes our lives better. I want our public servants to spend as carefully as you and I do for our businesses and households. Why leave money decisions to career politicians?
Finally, the motto of the institution where I got my bachelor’s degree is “Duty, Honor, Country.” I live that motto. It is a major part of the very core of my being. I have education, training, and experience that would greatly contribute to the Council and the City of Portland. I believe it is my obligation and privilege to serve my community to the best of my ability.
I humbly ask for your support.
