Fiscal Responsibility, Economic Development and Rebuilding of our Infrastructure will set the Foundation for Improved City Services.
Four years ago I identified Martinez as being at a "crossroads". We had the choice to remain stagnant or plan for the future betterment of our city while being careful to preserve our rich history.
We have passed that crossroads and embarked on a road that is heading us toward revitalization. In the last four (4) years we have:
- Brought the City back to Fiscal Responsibility and built the reserve from $1,600 to $3,100,000.
- Privatized the Marina with plans for $20,000,000 of Capital Improvements over the next five (5) years. Our hard work in securing Martinez as a Coast Guard Station has paid off. They recently announced that they will be moving their headquarters to the Martinez Marina.
- Addressed Downtown Flooding with a $8,100,000 Flood Control and Creek Enhancement Project.
- Improved the Major Entrances to the City (Pacheco Blvd., Marina Vista, Alhambra Avenue). The north one-way section of Alhambra Avenue from the County Hospital to the waterfront is undergoing improvement now. Berrilessa from the County Hospital to the waterfront will be improved next year.
- Developed a Vision for the Future of Martinez and an Economic Vitality Plan. I am founder of the Economic Vitality Task Force which delevoped this Vision and Ten Recommendations to the City Council for adoption and implementation. The council unanamously adopted all ten
recommendations and has already funded two: 1)Hiring of an Economic Development Director, and, 2)Revising the General Plan, with phase I concentrating on the downtown. Phase II and III will concentrate on other areas of the city.
- Instituted Green Waste and Mixed Paper Recycling programs to meet our State Mandated Solid Waste Reduction Goals of 50%. The cost for these added services was kept to an increase of only $1.00/month/household through the use of automation. We are now exceeding our recycling goals.
- Forged a close relationship with Contra Costa County. The county is our anchor tenant in the downtown. Our stature as the county seat must be maintained and enhanced to realize full economic revitalization. The county workers are our customers during the day. A new Family Law Complex will break ground this winter and we are working with the county on plans for a new City/County Government Center. The complex will have meeting rooms for community groups and activities. We are even considering a small performing arts center in conjunction with this "Capitol of the County".
With the development of our Sales Tax Base, we will be able to rebuild the infrastructure and provide more and better services to our citizens. The roads can be paved, more police officers can be hired, the litter can be picked up, the weeds can be pulled, the parks can be maintained properly, programs for children and seniors can be improved.
Much work remains to be completed. We have set a solid foundation for future economic growth. I have a vision for our future and the energy to make it happen!
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