Walnut Creek Needs Vision

By Sol Henik

I coach basketball and am a volunteer mentor in a health wellness program. I have also served in a variety of administrative roles such as vice principal and interim principal, and hold a masters degree in education leadership.

Walnut Creek needs vision from its leadership more than experience. My opponents are going to tell you all about their past public service record. In politics, however, experience can be overrated. Simply being in office a long time doesn't make you a better councilman. Now is the time to bring a fresh, young perspective to the council.

I seek election to your City Council and am qualified for the position. Qualities that are required are honesty, integrity, respect, common sense, solid judgment and communication skills. These are attributes that I have and use every day.

A major issue facing Walnut Creek is the construction of a new downtown library. As a teacher I value libraries. I believe that libraries are an essential tool for life-long learning. The estimated cost of this project is currently at $43.5 million. I propose that we build a state of the art library with the money that we already have ($25.6 million). There is no need to fund such an amenity-laden library while putting multiple city services in jeopardy. To fill the $17.9 million gap in funding the library, the current proposal is to transfer $5 million from the Redevelopment Agency (which does not include the library site), allocating approximately $5 million from the city's parking and downtown improvements fund, issuing $10 million in city debt, and finally the Walnut Creek Library Foundation has promised $5 million. Where is this money now?

One of my opponents claims that she is "new energy." However, there is nothing new about it. Her "energy" is derived from the same fizzled-out source that has been disconnected from the city for many years now. What this council needs is a beacon of light which derives its energy from what it represents -- the people. The main fundamental principle of government is representative government. That is, one in which citizens elect others to represent their interests. I will represent your interests.

How can we not believe in the greatness of the citizens of Walnut Creek? How can we not do what is right and needed to preserve the economy, traditions and history of this great city? After all, it is the citizens that make this city great. Let us remember that it is the citizen's voice that has spoken out against the new proposed library twice. It is the citizens that want traffic solutions and limits on high density growth developments. It is you -- my neighbors and friends, shopkeepers and teachers, waiters and waitresses, dog owners and policemen. The people have spoken, are speaking, and I am listening.

On Nov. 7, I ask for your vote. For more information, visit <http://www.vote4sol.com>