League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Santa Clara County, CA June 7, 2005 Election
	Rudy J Rodriguez Answers Questions Candidate for Council Member; City of San Jose; Council District 7

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of San Jose-Santa Clara and asked of all candidates for this office.

Read the answers from all candidates.

Questions & Answers

1. What kind of experience related to city government would you bring to the City Council?

I currently serve our community by volunteering in the classroom, serving on numerous boards of community or based organizations (such as the YMCA and the Mexican Heritage Plaza), helping with neighborhood beautifications, and mentoring young men and women. In addition, I am a commissioner on the San Jose City Small Business Development Commission and have served as the chair of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Silicon Valley. It is this hands-on experience that has helped me understand the issues facing the people of San Jose - and it is these experiences that have given me the motivation and desire to run for the election on June 7, 2005.

2. What are the concerns of particular importance to District 7 and how would you address them?

San Jose District 7 has always been a district with dreams of real possibilities. The good people of District 7 have lacked strong and effective representation for some time now. Progress depends on people who see what can be, rather than what merely is - I am willing to work hard to make strong positive change happen in our district

Effective leadership is not content with being caretakers. The next council member of District 7 must have a vision for the future and a strong plan for getting us there.

Unfortunately, with rising gang crime at our struggling schools, District 7 faces major challenges that demand attention and require strong action. I love our community and this great city too much to see its progress stalled by ineffectiveness.

We need a leader who is not only competent, but who can also inspire. A leader who will earn - and keep - the community's trust. A leader who will set goals worthy of our great community - and then work hard everyday to achieve them.

3. Where would you make cuts in services, staff or projects to meet the current city budget?

When the budget faces cuts, it is important to review all options before making any reduction in services, staff or projects. As a council member, I will be prudent and make a concerted effort so that jobs remain in place and vital services are not reduced. District 7 has a great need for increased youth and senior services and I will fight for both of these needs.

4. In addition to the issues already addressed, what particular Ethics issue would you like to see the Blue Ribbon Task Force on Ethics consider?

I would like the task force to consider having access to the calendars of our elected officials.