Candidate's Viewpoints

By Warren Lieberman

Key Reasons I am running for re-election to the City Council

Although times are tough, economically, prudent fiscal management has enabled Belmont to avoid making some of the more draconian service cuts that other cities have been forced into. My prior experience as a Finance Commissioner will continue to provide value as the Belmont City Council directs Belmont's budget.

Running for election in 2005, I noted three priorities:

• Strengthen fire protection and emergency medical services
• Improve our parks, fields, and recreation areas
• Smart economic development: Ensure Belmont can provide the services we want but retain the small town atmosphere and open spaces we treasure

Belmont - San Carlos Fire Department.

When my term began, our Fire Department was in dire financial straits and on the verge of dissolution. I was one of several Council Members to play a key role in negotiating and restructuring our agreement with San Carlos. I've served as one of Belmont's two Fire Commissioners for the past three years. Our Fire Department is much healthier, although pressures are emerging that could change this.

Parks, Recreation, Open Spaces, and Sports.

With community support, we instituted user fees, funding noticeable improvements in the conditions of our parks and sports fields. In addition, the City Council's focus and commitment to further improvements has grown stronger. We are developing two new parks: one on Davey Glen, the other at Semeria/Casa Bona.

New Priorities.

Much of our infrastructure, including roads and sewage collection and treatment facilities, is old and in need of repair and improvement. There is strong interest in increasing the "walkability" of our city. In addition, new challenges have recently emerged as the State's budget troubles have resulted in State take-aways of funds historically available to Belmont, including those of our Redevelopment Agency.

The knowledge and experience I gained during my first term on the City Council will enable me to work productively with the other Council Members and Staff as we identify actions to make improvements in these areas. For example, as Belmont's representative to the South Bayside System Authority, I worked with City Staff to identify a potential opportunity to reduce Belmont's costs for capital improvements for sewage treatment by $5 - $10 million. We are currently in the midst of working collaboratively with the other members of this Joint Powers Authority to make this happen.

I have consistently advocated for community outreach and initiated such programs, such as Community Lunches with the Mayor. My goal is to represent and work hard on behalf of all of Belmont's residents.

I ask for your continued support.

Thank you.