Poway Candidates Forum

Poway Candidates Forum

The GVCA, in conjunction with the Poway Chamber of Commerce, will hold a forum for the candidates for Mayor, City Council and PUSD School Board. Please join us for this important informational event.

Watch the Forum

PUSD School Board Candidates

Poway City Council Candidates

Poway Mayoral Candidates

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Pre-Forum Questionnaire: Candidate Reponses

Candidates were given a pre-forum questionnaire to answer prior to the Candidates Forum. Below you will find their answers. Please scroll down to view all candidates' responses which were limited to 500 characters, not including spaces.

MAYOR

YURI BOHLEN

• How long have you lived in Poway? 10 and a half years.

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience or skills (i.e., profession, volunteer involvement in the community) that are important qualifications for serving as the Mayor of Poway. I have been involved in activities in Poway since 1991 as a teenager going fishing with my father at Poway Lake. I was very active going to the community church thrift shops at the carriage center as a patron as well as donating cloths and furniture and household items to the various shops that provided affordable items to the community which in turn provided services and food and shelter for people in need like families with children and seniors. In the mid 90s I worked at McDonalds on Poway Road as the assistant Manager and people still remember me from there today. I have worked at a local pharmacy - -

• Why are you seeking this office? I am seeking the office of Mayor of Poway for many reasons I want to make a difference in my community with more communication between the city and its residents. I want our city to get back to its original ideals and why it was incorporated on December 1st, 1980, as the city in the country. Whether you were born here or moved here we all chose to live here for many of the same reasons to not be like every other big city with traffic and congestion. To live in a family friendly community where people of all faiths and races live as one. I want to preserve the beauty of Poway by keeping our open spaces and our sce - -

• How should the city engage the community to ensure that the scope and details of future new development projects in Poway are communicated clearly to residents? If elected Mayor of Poway I will create a new committee. The Residential District review committee that will meet once a month at city hall to discuss the issues in all four districts of new developments projects in Poway as well as existing ones and any other concerns or issues from members of the community. Why my district review committee will be different and more successful than other committees is there will not be appointments for the respective districts everyone will have equal say in the community.

• What do you believe the role of the Mayor should be in the development and support of the city of Poway? The role of the mayor in development and support of the city should include insuring moderate growth and thoroughly vetting potential developers in future projects. Supporting our Fire department and Sheriff's department by increasing annual budgets 1-5% accordingly depending on factors like revenue and budget and deficits by eliminating wasteful spending like consulting fees on various projects and issues. We have good people working at city hall who can share their ideas and opinions why pay a firm six figures to tell us what to do.

• If you could change one thing to our zoning code, what would it be and why? Many of our zoning laws were decided in the 1980s at a time when our population was considerably smaller, and the growth of our city had not yet been fully planned out. One of the codes is 17.26.720 Density bonus, incentive or concession housing agreement required. It is a loophole for increased housing with a small percentage for affordable units.

• List your top priorities as the Mayor of Poway: #1 Stop the over development of Poway due to the housing mandates of Sacramento that are not based on actual needs and availability but simply quotas. Each city should base there housing needs assessment on an individual basis without disrupting the quality of life of its residents. #2 Expand senior services and programs for our senior community. One out of every six residents Is 65 or older. We need more programs to feed and check up on our seniors many of whom are widows. I would like there to be more activities at the Mickey Cafagna center 7 days a week 9-5 schedule #3 Homeless prevention our city - -

DELTA ESPARZA

• How long have you lived in Poway? I have lived in Poway for over 3 years, and I have lived in the surrounding area (less than a mile) for 13 years.

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience or skills (i.e., profession, volunteer involvement in the community) that are important qualifications for serving as the Mayor of Poway. I have been in the defense industry for over 18 years. I work on complex products used to serve and protect our military, country, and international allies. As a Software Engineering Manager, I solve challenging problems and make difficult decisions. I have managed teams, projects, and multi-million-dollar contracts successfully. I have a Bachelor’s in Computer Science, and I also earned a Master’s in Systems Engineering while working full time.

• Why are you seeking this office? I bought my forever home in Poway almost 4 years ago and I am not happy with the direction that the town is heading. I do not see a vision that makes sense for Poway, especially in the area of development, nor do I see investments being made to improve the quality of life for Powegians. I am running for Mayor of Poway because I want a better version of Poway while keeping its old charm and character.

• How should the city engage the community to ensure that the scope and details of future new development projects in Poway are communicated clearly to residents? Aside from city council meetings, I would like to see on-going town halls to discuss development efforts that impact Powegians.

• What do you believe the role of the Mayor should be in the development and support of the city of Poway? The community desires to keep the “City in the Country” feel for Poway. The role of the Mayor, in the area of development, is to maintain both the town’s character and quality of life. The Mayor should embrace the past while setting a vision for Poway’s future.

• If you could change one thing to our zoning code, what would it be and why? Increase setbacks to control growth, improve traffic safety and visibility, allow for landscaping, and improve safety for pedestrians by not being so close to traffic.

• List your top priorities as the Mayor of Poway: • Good Governance – Ensure Powegians are represented, included, and advocated for on city matters that impact their quality of life. Ensure city council is transparent, honest, and accountable on city matters. Enact term limits & a Board of Ethics. • Development - Stop the influence of developers at City Hall. Implement a moratorium on new development. Update city plans to ensure future development meets the needs of the community, preserves our open space, and reflects our vision for our city. • Climate Action - Generate a Climate Action Plan to move towards a greener and cost effective future for generations to come.

STEVE VAUS

• How long have you lived in Poway? My wife, Corrie and I got married and moved to Poway in 1993 - twenty-nine years ago! We’ve lived in the same house ever since. Our kids, Anna and Jacob, grew up here and went through the Poway school system. We’ve ridden our horses on Poway’s trails; walked our dogs on Poway’s streets; played with our kids in Poway’s parks; hiked and biked through Poway’s vast open spaces. All to say we haven’t just lived here… we’ve LIVED here!

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience or skills (i.e., profession, volunteer involvement in the community) that are important qualifications for serving as the Mayor of Poway. A record of volunteer service and community involvement is the only way to become truly prepared to serve on City Council or as Mayor. Prior to joining the council in 2012 I volunteered as a Poway Reserve Park Ranger with the mounted patrol. I also served a term as Chair of the City’s Budget Review Committee and I was Executive Director of the Poway Community Leadership Institute. Before being elected Mayor I served two years on city council.

• Why are you seeking this office? 2022 is the first time in 26 years we will have two open seats on City Council up for election due to the retirement of Councilmember John Mullin and Councilmember Dave Grosch. The City is in their debt for their faithful and selfless service. But with their departure we face a critical time that requires a steady and experienced hand on the rudder. That is the only way Poway will continue to be ranked as the safest city in the county, the best place to raise a family, the city with the best roads, and the city that is best prepared, in every respect, for future generations.

• How should the city engage the community to ensure that the scope and details of future new development projects in Poway are communicated clearly to residents? We’ve made great strides going above and beyond legal requirements for notification by expanding who we notify. Additionally we have a full-time Public Information Officer to push information out via every means possible: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, NextDoor; traditional media; and a newsletter. Residents can sign up for our NOTIFY ME emails. We have updated the City’s web site, making it easier to connect with information and/or individuals for answers to virtually any question related to the City. As communication methods have evolved we have as well and we will continue to do so.

• What do you believe the role of the Mayor should be in the development and support of the city of Poway? The Mayor wears many hats - meeting moderator, ambassador, cheerleader, negotiator and sometimes much more. Consider the events of just the last four years: following the tragic 2019 Poway synagogue shooting I represented Poway before media from around the world; during the pandemic I created programs (Poway Emergency Assistance Recovery Loans for local businesses; our Picnic table program for restaurants; and more) that literally saved businesses, and those they employ, from financial ruin. In short, the Mayor must have the experience and expertise to handle any circumstance.

• If you could change one thing to our zoning code, what would it be and why? I’d tell Sacramento bureaucrats to keep their hands off our City’s zoning! Their one-size-fits-all approach to housing density threatens our community character. A perfect example - a project that was before Council in July of this year. Using a Sacramento loophole, an out-of-town developer wanted to build 20 houses on a small parcel zoned for only 15 homes. I voted NO but the project was approved. As long as Sacramento keeps usurping our local authority and giving developers “get-out-jail-free cards” we will see more high density projects. We MUST do everything in our power to stop them.

• List your top priorities as the Mayor of Poway: Keep Poway safe. Keep Poway family-friendly. Keep Poway ready for the next generation.

EMEKA IBEKWE

• How long have you lived in Poway? 5 years.

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience or skills (i.e., profession, volunteer involvement in the community) that are important qualifications for serving as the Mayor of Poway. Business ownership and management, charity and nonprofit drives, MBA, Professional Engineer P.E., Real Estate license and knowledge, sales skills, critical thinking skills, problem solving skills, solving problems from the root, people skills / interpersonal skills: communication, conflict management, empathy, leadership, listening, negotiation, teamwork, positive attitude.

• Why are you seeking this office? Mayor of Poway

• How should the city engage the community to ensure that the scope and details of future new development projects in Poway are communicated clearly to residents? Have regular meetings with people of Poway to ensure the ideas and concerns of people are considered during decision making. The use of several communication/collaboration tools/media designed to be inclusive can be employed to capture everyones sentiments on issues as new development projects are implemented.

• What do you believe the role of the Mayor should be in the development and support of the city of Poway? Mayor should have a leadership and managerial role ensuring that Poway resident opinions and sentiments are protected.

• If you could change one thing to our zoning code, what would it be and why? Review the current zoning code and ensure that desired effect of regulating the use land, buildings and structures, height & size of buildings, population density. dwelling per acre, standards of performance are met to the satisfaction of the residents of Poway especially for future projects.

• List your top priorities as the Mayor of Poway:Make the residents of Poway feel engaged and included in all issues especially those new development projects, existing projects and zoning.

BHAVANA KANSAL

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CITY COUNCIL

BRIAN PEPIN, City Council District 1

• How long have you lived in the Poway district you are seeking to represent? 5 years.

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience or skills (i.e., profession, volunteer involvement in the community) that are important qualifications for serving on the Poway City Council. I'm a Poway small business owner as well as the former Chairman of the Poway Chamber of Commerce and former Chairman of the Poway Budget Review Committee. I'm also a member of Poway Kiwanis & Poway Elks.

• Why are you seeking this office? I'm raising my family here and will spend the rest of my life in Poway. I'm running for City Council because I want to keep Poway a safe, clean, family-friendly community for my kids to grow up in. Poway is ranked as the safest city in San Diego County and I want to keep it that way; that's why I have the support of every public safety group in town, including the Poway Firefighters' Association, Deputy Sheriffs' Association & San Diego Police Officers' Association.

• How should the city engage the community to ensure that the scope and details of future new development projects in Poway are communicated clearly to residents? The city must do a better job explaining how decisions at City Hall will impact the lives of residents. The city can do a better job to proactively inform residents via phone, mail, and digital communications when important decisions are coming up.

• What do you believe the role of the city council should be in the development and support of the city of Poway? The city council should always put our residents first. That means the council should take action to reduce traffic, improve our neighborhoods, and ensure Poway families will continue to experience the great quality-of-life that our city has always been known for.

• If you could change one thing to our zoning code, what would it be and why? I would make sure that the design of anything in the future fits the character of Poway. Specifically, I would ensure that setbacks are established.

• List your top priorities as a Poway City Council member: My priorities will be to keep Poway safe, support firefighters and police, and maintain our roads, parks and other infrastructure that Poway families rely on every day.

HIRAM SOTO, City Council District 1

• How long have you lived in the Poway district you are seeking to represent? Seven years of raising my family in Poway in the beautiful community of The Palisades.

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience or skills (i.e., profession, volunteer involvement in the community) that are important qualifications for serving on the Poway City Council. I’m a member of the Poway Historical Society and volunteer. I oversee marketing for sustainable energy programs for a national nonprofit organization. I spent 10 years as a reporter at the San Diego Union-Tribune. I worked for a federal government contractor. My experience includes working with the FBI to help increase trust between communities of color and federal law enforcement. I am fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, which means I can communicate with people from different backgrounds.

• Why are you seeking this office?I believe local government, as imperfect as it is, plays a critical role in people’s lives. I began my campaign focused on issues (visit hiramsoto.com for more.) Since then I’ve learned that issues are just as important as the people who represent us. Will voters choose a political / developer consultant who pushes lies and misinformation for a living, or a former reporter who lives by the values of truth, openness, transparency and integrity? Voters will decide on Nov. 8.

• How should the city engage the community to ensure that the scope and details of future new development projects in Poway are communicated clearly to residents? Powegians are proud of their city and care deeply about its open spaces and trails. They cherish Poway’s beautiful rural ambience. Unfortunately, residents feel blindsided by the out-of-control influence developers have on City Council. More than engaging residents with the “scope and details of future new developments,” the city should partner with residents to craft a new path forward anchored in open spaces and trails, sustainability, technology, housing affordability and livable communities.

• What do you believe the role of the city council should be in the development and support of the city of Poway? The City Council sets the strategic direction for the city, and should serve as the voice of their constituents. When you speak with neighbors in District 1, it becomes clear the City Council’s strategic direction does not represent the voice of their constituents. This disconnect has undermined trust between elected officials and the residents they represent. The City Council needs to revisit its strategic direction in a collaborative, honest, open and transparent way.

• If you could change one thing to our zoning code, what would it be and why? Development in Poway is driven by developers who prioritize profit over long-term planning because our current plans are outdated, inconsistent and unbalanced, leading to undesirable development that’s out of sync with the character of the city and concentrated in the south part of the city. One zoning code issue that's important to revisit is the setbacks on Poway Road. They are out of character with the city.

• List your top priorities as a Poway City Council member: 1) Stop the out-of-control influence of developers in Poway; 2) Pass an energy savings plan to help the city move away from dirty and expensive fossil fuels and toward cheaper and cleaner sustainable energy; 3) As a former reporter, ensure our city is open, honest and transparent. More info at hiramsoto.com.

PETER DE HOFF, City Council, District 3

• How long have you lived in the Poway district you are seeking to represent? 9 years.

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience or skills (i.e., profession, volunteer involvement in the community) that are important qualifications for serving on the Poway City Council. I am a Scientist at UCSD. Vice Chair, Budget Review Committee, 3 years of service. 12 years of engagement with the City on a variety of issues from water rates, to voter districts, to housing project transparency. Worked with City to adopt the International Dark Sky Association lighting regulations.

• Why are you seeking this office? To help keep Poway the same type of place for which I moved my family to Poway more than 12 years ago: A safe, family oriented city with great schools, open spaces, plenty of local amenities, and a balanced budget.

• How should the city engage the community to ensure that the scope and details of future new development projects in Poway are communicated clearly to residents? While Poway currently goes beyond California standards in the notification area and lead time, more prominent notification (larger ads) in the Chieftain could increase reach. Also, an online notification system, for example a section on the city website with social media alerts to changes there, could help in informing residents of upcoming developments. It may be helpful to cite the specific state assembly and senate bills that are being used by developers to circumvent local zoning ordinances.

• What do you believe the role of the city council should be in the development and support of the city of Poway? The City Council ensures that the City Government maintains a laser focus on its core activities of public safety, smooth roads, and quality amenities for the residents, and does not engage in unneeded financial or regulatory excursions. Regarding development: The administrative arm of the city ensures project compliance with the zoning as laid out in the general plan and its overlays. Variances of significance are brought before the council to ensure sufficient community benefit has been gained in the exchange.

• If you could change one thing to our zoning code, what would it be and why? Eliminate first floor residential development in Mixed Use zones. With commercial occupancy around 97%, additional commercial real estate will help support small businesses to locate here and diversify Poway’s tax base. This would also better align the PRSP MU overlay with the common understanding of “mixed use” to mean a first floor of light commercial with multiple residential levels above.

• List your top priorities as a Poway City Council member: Keep Poway Safe, Protect Open Space, Improve Local/Senior Amenities, Support Youth Sports, Oppose High Density Development, Respect Private Property Rights

KEVIN JUZA, City Council, District 3

• How long have you lived in the Poway district you are seeking to represent? 6 years, purchased in 2016.

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience or skills (i.e., profession, volunteer involvement in the community) that are important qualifications for serving on the Poway City Council. I have worked in large Fortune 500 companies and managed budgets over $50 Million dollars. I have opened my own retail business and operated multiple locations. I am currently an executive coach that works with Chief Operations Officers lead with more authenticity and purpose. In addition, I am a Sales and Operational Consultant that helps startups build successful inside sales teams. I have been the President of the Turtleback Elementary and Twin Peaks Middle School’s foundations, and currently, I am the Treasurer at the Poway High Foundation. In these roles, I have to work with the comm - -

• Why are you seeking this office? I am seeking the City Council seat to bring an independent voice that will add to a thorough and deliberate conversations. I want to bring the City Council a fresh view of what the community wants to be developed in our city moving forward.

• How should the city engage the community to ensure that the scope and details of future new development projects in Poway are communicated clearly to residents? I would like more transparency and additional community working sessions to review and understand any major developments. In addition, when any major changes that impacts the developments, like setbacks and height restrictions, should be approved by the City Council in open sessions.

• What do you believe the role of the city council should be in the development and support of the city of Poway? The City Council's role is to set the policy and zoning to ensure it fits within the established city’s plans. The plans should be reviewed in a timely rotation. The city council needs an approved Climate Action Plan and a thoughtful Housing Element Plan that addresses the need for affordable housing to support the businesses in Poway. If the city doesn’t have the appropriate plans, then they let developers and outside entities direct how our city gets designed and developed.

• If you could change one thing to our zoning code, what would it be and why? The business park zoning is great, having that located away from most of the residential homes and close enough to support the business of Poway. I would see how we could bring bus service up to those businesses to support all the housing coming to Poway Road and easy access to a job in Poway. Any developments in the business park should work toward adding more sidewalks so people can walk safer around the business park.

• List your top priorities as a Poway City Council member: 1) Fiscal Transparency – I would like to see the city budget be more transparent for the residents to understand where their tax dollars are spent. 2) Connect the city paths and trails. I would like to propose a community committee to work with the city to identify where we need additional trails and paths to make it easier to walk around our community. 3) Smarter Developments that represent the needs and wants of the community versus developers. It’s the city’s responsibility to set the zoning and use permits to ensure that when developers create their plans, they are within the guidelines to en - -

TONY RUSSO, City Council, District 3

• How long have you lived in the Poway district you are seeking to represent? Since 1978 Family Home.

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience or skills (i.e., profession, volunteer involvement in the community) that are important qualifications for serving on the Poway City Council. Small Business Owner. Advocate for families, seniors and small business owners. Employed by PUSD as a character coach to help with kids at Garden Rd. Elementary School. Volunteer Coach and manager of Poway National Little league and Flag football 360.

• Why are you seeking this office? To listen and be the voice for everyone that calls Poway there home and not special interest groups. To make Poway a place where we all can thrive and be proud of no matter what district we live in. Revisit the concerns that Powegian's share about our high-water rates, traffic problems and bad costly decisions that have been made that affect our growth of our city in the country.

• How should the city engage the community to ensure that the scope and details of future new development projects in Poway are communicated clearly to residents? The City Council should announce in advance to the public any interest that may want to conduct business in Poway. Anything from a mom and pop to a corporation. For larger projects that can take 2-3 years or longer. The Council should have multiple workshops and interactions with the community for updates and changes. This would allow for community to have a clear input. The city should also announce any unforeseen barriers that arise to the public in a reasonable amount of time. This would allow the community to be aware of issues and give an opportunity for input in handling such issues.

• What do you believe the role of the city council should be in the development and support of the city of Poway? I believe that the council should have a proactive approach in helping small businesses succeed and not just focus on the larger big corporations. The city should take the approach of looking at true needs for the citizens of Poway. Overseeing projects from start to finish to avoid costly mistakes. As a councilmember I plan on addressing the major issues that we are dealing with such as water rates, traffic improvement, and being a voice for the people of Poway!

• If you could change one thing to our zoning code, what would it be and why? To slow down the high density building in the heart of the city. We should have been better prepared for the impact that can occur when trying to grow too fast. We see it every day driving down the heart of Poway Road with projects that have been stalled for over 4 years. Affecting our businesses and residents with heavy traffic and inconvenient delays.

• List your top priorities as a Poway City Council member: To address the miscues that have been made and allow for prosperity and growth for all of Poway. Prioritize open dialogue with small businesses that need true assistance. Reexamine the increases in the water rates. Bring businesses that allow our families to stay and play in Poway.

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PUSD SCHOOL BOARD

FRIDA BUNZELL, PUSD School Board, Area B

• How long have you lived in the Poway district you are seeking to represent? 3.5 years. I lived in PUSD since 2001.

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience (i.e., schools your children attend(ed), volunteer roles in PUSD, profession, etc.) that are important qualifications for serving on the Poway Unified School District Board of Education. I have a Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering and worked in R&D for 10+ years. I also have advanced language certificates in German and French. I have lived in PQ, 4S Ranch and Poway and my three children have attended seven different PUSD schools. I have been an elected member on several PTA boards at levels up to SD county, including two terms as President of Palomar Council PTA. As an immigrant who has lived in four countries, I bring a unique perspective to the board.

• Why are you seeking this office? My interest in PUSD started when my child struggled to learn to read. I realized that there are efficient and evidence-based methods to teach a child to read that were not being used and I have successfully advocated for their implementation ever since. I want to make sure this work continues. Because of my children’s experiences, I am also passionate about making sure that every child feels safe, welcomed and valued at school, thus I want to ensure that PUSD’s equity and inclusion program continues. I know that with better data analysis, we can make better decisions and use taxpayer’s money mo - -

• What do you think the relationship between the School Board and the Superintendent should be? The school board is responsible for hiring and evaluating the superintendent. The board creates the vision, priorities and goals and the superintendent is responsible for the implementation. The relationship should be of mutual respect and courtesy. I believe board members need to balance being a team member and an independent thinker, and use their voice to represent the community.

• What do consider the primary role of a PUSD School Board member to be? I believe our primary role is to be the voice of the community. A board member needs to confirm that funds are spent effectively and in a way to best serve the students.

• List your top priorities as a PUSD School Board Member: 1) Literacy for all: reading scores need to improve and I have experience in how to solve this problem. 2) Better access to mental health services. The district has resources, but parents struggle to access them. 3) Do more to prevent bullying because it is important that students feel safe and respected at school. 4) Financial accountability: tax money should go towards smaller class sizes and enhanced curriculum, not lawsuits.

GINGER COUVRETTE, PUSD School Board, Area B

• How long have you lived in the Poway district you are seeking to represent? 26 years.

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience (i.e., schools your children attend(ed), volunteer roles in PUSD, profession, etc.) that are important qualifications for serving on the Poway Unified School District Board of Education. My three kids started Preschool at Chaparral, attended Twin Peaks and graduated from Poway High School. I was a credentialed high school science teacher and coached many sports. Currently, I own Halcyon Real Estate in the Poway Business Park. I worked with PYSL for 10 years recruiting and supporting 100s of volunteers. I raised $60,000 for Special Needs with Jack-O-Smash. I was Room mom 17 times and still doing Chaparral Thanksgiving Baskets, Chairman of the City’s Budget Comm. and Parks and Rec Comm, Pres. of the Poway Sports Assoc. lighting Arbolitos and turfing Valley and Meadowbrook.

• Why are you seeking this office? Post pandemic, we must focus on the fundamentals. PUSD must challenge all students and provide each with pathways to success. Academic excellence as well as exposure to high wage, high demand career opportunities need to be expanded. My passion is Career Technical Education (Vocational) such as Fire Safety, Graphic Design, Engineering, Auto, etc. I want to build on partnerships with Palomar College to expand dual enrollment and add more articulated classes towards an AA degree during high school.

• What do you think the relationship between the School Board and the Superintendent should be? The School Board must hold the Superintendent accountable for establishing the procedures and protocols for safety, services, management, training, and curriculum. The Board has the ear to the needs of the community and must research and address issues. With a budget of over $450 million, we are trusted with the tax money of the community and must be fiscally responsible, so every dollar is used to its highest potential. With agreed upon objectives, we must support her as she works to improve the educational experience of every student.

• What do consider the primary role of a PUSD School Board member to be? The main role is to hold the Superintendent accountable. PUSD covers about 100 square miles. Four years ago we divided into 5 districts so each area is better represented. That said, our job is also to listen to our community and bring concerns to the Superintendent and Cabinet. I have a solid relationship with the City of Poway which we have many joint use agreements and work together to support our families. I have volunteered with many groups and work to be approachable and responsive.

• List your top priorities as a PUSD School Board Member: Focus on the fundamentals: 1. Academic Excellence 2. Increase cooperation and coordination with parents, students, teacher, staff, community members, City of Poway and Chamber of Commerce 3. Establishing consistent and clear safety procedures so all students and parents are confident. 4. Fiscal responsibility and transparency 5. Pathways for success, Career and Technical Education so all students are motivated with relevant content to ensure success after graduation. Pursue dual enrollment opportunities.

DAVE NELSON, PUSD School Board, Area B

• How long have you lived in the Poway district you are seeking to represent? 6 years.

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience (i.e., schools your children attend(ed), volunteer roles in PUSD, profession, etc.) that are important qualifications for serving on the Poway Unified School District Board of Education. Husband and Father of two daughters. Anika graduated from Poway High 2022. Now attends University of Alabama for her law degree. Ava is in 10th grade at Poway High. She is involved in the school via Tennis and is currently taking AP Classes. Navy Veteran - acquired one of the highest security clearances offered in Navy Intelligence. I served in Europe, California and Florida during the Cold War. This experience led to numerous applicable benefits such as leadership development, hands-on applications, collaboration, widened perspectives, transferable skills, enhanced critical thinki - -

• Why are you seeking this office? The year 2020 really opened my eyes to the decreased level of education being taught to our children. Watching over my daughters' shoulders during the online classes and finding out what they were actually learning in school forced difficult dinner table discussions with the girls. These discussions were about resetting our daughters' belief systems back to faith, courage and respect. What I realized is over the last 10 - 15 years it seems most of us trusted the school systems to educate our children. Somewhere along the way the school system has decided they were the parents of our students. - -

• What do you think the relationship between the School Board and the Superintendent should be? The relationship between school board and superintendent is two parts. That of a liaison between parents and students to the Superintendent. The school board sets the objectives, goals and policies of the district then holds the superintendent accountable for reaching those objectives.

• What do consider the primary role of a PUSD School Board member to be? That of a liaison between parents and students to the Superintendent. The school board sets the objectives, goals and policies of the district then holds the superintendent accountable for reaching those objectives.

• List your top priorities as a PUSD School Board Member: Top priorities for School Board members is to bring the parents back into the discussions for their students. Over the last 3 years Poway parents have been attempting to communicate with the schools. The school board and the Superintendent have been ignoring them and implementing programs against the parents' will. Currently there is a gender survey being given to our students as low as 6th grade. An article published May 2022 exposes that the survey is asking children who they hang out with. It also requests the student name and lists the race and gender of each child. The survey is 31 questions, some of which are about ‘equity,” and others are about students willingness to speak out against “racism” and “homophobia.” 21 of the 31 question - -

PATRICK BATTEN, PUSD School Board, Area C

• How long have you lived in the Poway district you are seeking to represent? More than 20 years.

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience (i.e., schools your children attend(ed), volunteer roles in PUSD, profession, etc.) that are important qualifications for serving on the Poway Unified School District Board of Education. Westwood Elementary, Chaparral Elementary, Los Penasquitos Academy, Bernardo Heights Middle School, Rancho Bernardo High School and Westwood High School. I currently serve on the Rancho Bernardo Community Council, Rancho Bernardo Planning Group, Rancho Bernardo Recreational Advisory Council, San Diego Consolidated Planning Advisory Board. I have been involved with my children as they have grown up volunteering as a little league, soccer and football coach. I have consistently volunteered at our children's schools when able. However, I have been deployed as a U.S. Marine to Iraq - -

• Why are you seeking this office? As a parent with children in the district, I want to make sure that all children continue to receive a world-class education. We are facing many challenges in the future and we need a strong leader that can manage these tough situations. Our schools are aging and need significant maintenance and capital improvements. It is clear that the voters are concerned about giving the school district more tax dollars through a bond. Therefore, we need a strong leader with fiscal responsibility to make difficult decisions. As a Marine, I have made tough decisions throughout my career and will use this ex- -

• What do you think the relationship between the School Board and the Superintendent should be? The Superintendent and school board should have a close working relationship with respect and a mutual understanding. However, there will be times when disagreement arises. Trust and respect will be needed to carry through those periods. The school board represents the entire district and must take all concerns into consideration for decision making.

• What do consider the primary role of a PUSD School Board member to be? To ensure that children are educated and prepared to compete in the global economy.

• List your top priorities as a PUSD School Board Member: I will focus on being "Brilliant at the Basics." Our children’s education must concentrate on Reading, Writing and Arithmetic to prepare them to compete in the global economy. Not all students will go to college, but all students must be prepared for their future. I will seek expand vocational education opportunities. I will support teachers as they are the key to the success of our children. We must provide a safe and engaging atmosphere to foster learning and growth.

HEATHER PLOTZKE, PUSD School Board, Area C

• How long have you lived in the Poway district you are seeking to represent? Enrolled in PUSD 2016, Purchased home 2017.

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience (i.e., schools your children attend(ed), volunteer roles in PUSD, profession, etc.) that are important qualifications for serving on the Poway Unified School District Board of Education. My kids have attended Midland Elementary, Los Penasquitos Elementary, Bernardo Heights Middle School, Oak Valley Middle School, Rancho Bernardo High School, and Del Norte High School. My family has been and continues to be members of the PTSA at every school my children have attended. When they were in Elementary school I volunteered in their rooms for class parties, etc. In 2017, I became a voting member of the Community Advisory Committee to the Board of Education (for special needs), often referred to as the CAC. I have served the last three years as Co-Chair and Now Chair. I have 30 years Bu - -

• Why are you seeking this office? My family and I decided that I needed to run this past Spring, when the amount of turmoil and hate spread like wild fire at the Board of Education meetings from all sides and around the district area in general. Although you cannot address comments in the public section of meetings, doesn't meant that they should never be publicly addressed. That kind of divisiveness was carrying over into the schools, where bullying and fights were becoming more common than ever before; children were not afraid to show outward hatred towards each other in away that had never been the case before. My husband and I - -

• What do you think the relationship between the School Board and the Superintendent should be? The Superintendent is responsible for following the mission statement and vision that was setup by the Board of Education. In other words, the Superintendent and their staff follows through on the curriculum and policy approved by the Board of Education. The Superintendent reports directly to the Board. The Board gets a direct briefing weekly on what is happening around the district through the lens of the Superintendent's team; it is up the Trustee's to verify those views on their own though.

• What do consider the primary role of a PUSD School Board member to be? I believe the Primary role is to be the overall oversight and control analyst for everything that the district staff is recommending and currently doing; as well as being the direct manager of Superintendent and their teams. They do not only vote on policy presented to them by the Superintendent, but they need to question everything from the eyes of all the stakeholders. To be able to achieve these roles a Board Member needs to be out visiting sites, talking to staff at all levels, talking to parents those that agree and those don't with them and the district's current direction, and they need to b- -

• List your top priorities as a PUSD School Board Member: • Finding a way for PUSD to overcome the current hiring staff crisis without outsourcing temporary positions. This is bleeding the district both financially and with the morale of the employees • Making sure that mental health professionals hired in with COVID funding and being maintaining through the COVID grants and the one-time California budget package, are continually funded for years to come for both mainstream and special education students at every grade level. • Let teachers teach, and getting all staff, classified and certified alike, the training they request and need, to ens - -

JANET BREMSETH, PUSD School Board, Area D

• How long have you lived in the Poway district you are seeking to represent? 14 years.

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience (i.e., schools your children attend(ed), volunteer roles in PUSD, profession, etc.) that are important qualifications for serving on the Poway Unified School District Board of Education. Grandchildren attends Del Norte and Stone Ranch schools . I volunteer on the Board in the community I live in. I was also a Director of Community Relations at Marymount College in Palos Verdes, CA.

• Why are you seeking this office? It is time for a bipartisan effort to get back to the basics of education.

• What do you think the relationship between the School Board and the Superintendent should be? I think the relationship should be transparent.

• What do consider the primary role of a PUSD School Board member to be? To ensure education does not have a political goal.

• List your top priorities as a PUSD School Board Member: Financial stability and getting back to the traditional educational values

MICHELLE O'CONNOR RATCLIFF, PUSD School Board, Area D

• How long have you lived in the Poway district you are seeking to represent? 32 years.

• List your specific personal and/or professional experience (i.e., schools your children attend(ed), volunteer roles in PUSD, profession, etc.) that are important qualifications for serving on the Poway Unified School District Board of Education. As an alumna of PUSD, daughter of two retired PUSD teachers, and parent of two current PUSD students, I am deeply invested in the continued excellence of our district. I hold degrees from Stanford University and UC Hastings Law and teach Business Law at the University of San Diego. I currently volunteer in my children’s schools as a PTA Board Member, Theater Booster, and Student Mental Health Committee member. I’m also a certified Special Education Advocate and a former elected member of the Rancho Penasquitos Town Council. I have spent my first two terms as a School Board member building up a h - -

• Why are you seeking this office? I grew up in Poway Unified and graduated from Mt. Carmel HS. My parents were both teachers in the district. When I was first elected to the School Board eight years ago, my children were just beginning their school journeys. They’re now in 8th and 10th grades. It’s because of them and my long history in this community that I’m invested in the continued excellence of our district. I am a passionate advocate for public education. During my first 2 terms, I’ve helped start some great work in Poway Unified, and I want to see it through. My work on the School Board has led to important shifts in Poway Unifie - -

• What do you think the relationship between the School Board and the Superintendent should be? Communication, teamwork, and accountability are the keys to this relationship. The School Board must work with the Superintendent as a member of the governance team to create a vision and goals for the district. The Board and Superintendent must continually strive to understand changing circumstances and priorities from each team member's perspective and adjust plans accordingly. The Board must trust the Superintendent to implement the joint vision and goals, with frequent communication, input, and accountability benchmarks to ensure joint understanding of progress.

• What do consider the primary role of a PUSD School Board member to be? The primary roles of a School Board member are to oversee the governance of the district on behalf of the whole community, to keep the district focus on what's best for students, and to be a passionate advocate for public education. The more frequently a Board member communicates with stakeholders-- parents, staff, administrators, and students-- the better. This ensures that priorities and policies reflect respectful, cooperative, transparent governance.

• List your top priorities as a PUSD School Board Member:My top priorities boil down to continuing the positive momentum I've helped build in the district. There is still work to be done. I’ll keep putting our children first until every student feels safe, valued, engaged, challenged, and successful. More specifically, this includes continuing work to build spaces and a culture of belonging for all students, expanding inclusive practices so all students can access challenging curriculum, prioritizing student mental health supports by maintaining current elevated levels made possible by COVID funding, and advocating for additional ongo - -

Watch County Board of Supervisors and California State Assembly 77 District Candidates Forum

RECORDED FROM WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 AT 6PM

San Diego County Board of Supervisors 
District 2: Steve Vaus & Joel Anderson

California State Assembly 
77th District: June Cutter

California Assembly Pre-Forum Questionnaire

The Green Valley Civic Association, Poway Chamber of Commerce, COX, and Poway Kiwanis partnered on two Virtual Candidates Forums to find out where candidates stand on important issues that will affect you and your community.

Q: Describe your personal/professional background

June Cutter: Mother / Attorney / Small Business Owner

Q: Why are you seeking this office?

June Cutter: I am running to make sure our community has a real voice in Sacramento, so that the interests of hard working Californians are placed above special interests. I want to be a champion for the middle class and ensure that future generations have the opportunity to succeed and build a beautiful future here in my home state.

Q: Do you support the California High Speed Rail project?

June Cutter: No.

Q: Proposition 15 – often referred to as Split Roll – would amend the California State Constitution to require most commercial properties to be taxed based on their market value, rather than a property's purchase price (as it has been done under Prop. 13 since 1978). Do you support or oppose Prop 15 and why?

June Cutter: I strongly oppose Proposition 15 aka “Split Roll.” Since its passage in 1978, Proposition 13 has kept our property tax rates reasonable and that has been a fundamental component in keeping California affordable for the vast majority of its residents. Split Roll is dangerous because it sets a precedent - once you remove Prop 13 protections from commercial properties, it becomes a lot easier to remove those same protections from residential properties, which will be detrimental to homeowners. Moreover, increasing commercial property taxes will impact small businesses and consumers - when commercial property taxes rise, those taxes are passed along to tenants; when rental costs rise, prices must be increased for consumers. By increasing the cost of living across the board, Proposition 15’s most detrimental impact will be on California’s hard working middle class. Lastly, I do not support tax increases because I believe that California’s state government does not have a revenue problem; it has a spending problem. Instead of raising taxes, we need to hold our government accountable for the manner in which it spends the astronomical amount of taxes it already collects.

Q: What are your thoughts on repealing Assembly Bill 5, requiring “gig” workers to be classified as employees?

June Cutter: I support a full repeal of AB-5. As an employment attorney by trade, I have carefully examined AB-5 and understand the in’s and out’s of why it is bad law. AB-5 is detrimental to both businesses and the workforce. It is a job killing piece of legislation that disproportionately impacts working mothers, disabled adults, and senior citizens seeking supplemental income. In essence, they have taken a sledgehammer to a purported problem that could have been solved with a scalpel, as demonstrated by the dozens of industry carve-outs they have subsequently legislated. Exemption from an onerous law should not be based upon which industries can afford the best lobbyists. AB-5 is a prime example of the disaster that ensues when special interests control our state legislature.

County Supervisor Pre-Forum Questionnaire

The Green Valley Civic Association, Poway Chamber of Commerce, COX, and Poway Kiwanis partnered on two Virtual Candidates Forums to find out where candidates stand on important issues that will affect you and your community.

Q: Describe your personal/professional background

Joel Anderson: Many of you know me and you have spoken to me in town at one of my many Community Coffees. I’ve participated at chamber events and have asked for your opinions before I voted on issues important to you. I have a track record of supporting the chamber and Poway in general. My twelve-year record in the legislature as an advocate for taxpayers and providing service to constituents who needed help resolving complex issues prepares me to serve on the board of Supervisors.

Steve Vaus: Growing up on a cattle ranch shaped my approach to life. When you have to get up at the crack of dawn to tend the cattle before you go to school you learn a little something about hard work. That lesson was only underscored when, early in my career, I went to work for Youth Development, Inc. YDI was the largest provider of private residential care facilities for troubled young men in San Diego County, and I oversaw all of their residential operations. But despite the importance of that work, my heart wasn’t really in social service – I wanted to pursue a career in the music business. And once again, my work ethic paid off. My company created music for some of the biggest tv shows, music stars, promotional events and advertisers. Later, as a recording artist I went on to win the highest awards in the industry. My wife Corrie and I have lived in Poway for over 27 years. We have four kids and six grandsons.

Q: Why are you seeking this office?

Joel Anderson: Lack of county leadership has led to businesses struggling to stay afloat during COVID, a mental health and homelessness crisis, out of control housing costs, too many taxes and fees, and traffic gridlock. As your Supervisor, I will fight for East County and our quality of life.

Steve Vaus: My track record as Mayor of Poway - always delivering balanced budgets, never increasing taxes, consistently being the safest city in the county, ranked #1 to raise a family, expanding housing opportunities while protecting and increasing open space - offers a great blueprint for the County. Additionally, my success as a small business owner (winning the highest awards in the industry) combined with my local and regional government experience uniquely qualifies me to be the next Supervisor for East County.

Q: What are your priorities as a Supervisor, both countywide and for District 2?

Joel Anderson: Over the years, I have been out talking to voters in East County about their concerns. Roads, the cost of living (housing) and homelessness (mental health) are at the top of the list. Politics doesn’t always have to be an us against them and I have proven it with my bipartisan work. We need to be laser focused on policies that lift our community and help address real problems that we are all facing like homelessness and high cost of living.

Steve Vaus: Public safety will always be my top priority. I am endorsed by the San Diego County Deputy Sheriffs’ Association and every law enforcement agency in the district, as well as Cal Fire firefighters, because I will make sure they have the resources to keep us safe. Maintaining strong fiscal discipline and protecting East County taxpayers is also a high priority for me. As Supervisor, I will oppose all tax increases, will always ensure balanced budgets and maintain prudent fiscal reserves to protect critical services during any future emergencies. I will also fight the effort by the Sacramento politicians to dismantle Proposition 13, the landmark initiative that keeps our property taxes low. And I will always fight for property rights. Finally, we need to fix the homelessness problem in San Diego County. That will be done by instituting effective, accountable programs that treat the causes of chronic homelessness. We must address the mental health problems so common among the homeless. And, we have to combat the rampant drug and alcohol abuse in the homeless population. As Supervisor, I will not allow homeless encampments to overtake public spaces such as parks and sidewalks. Keeping those areas clean and safe is an obligation of our government.

Q: How do you intend to address our regional transportation and infrastructure needs?

Joel Anderson: The transit needs of our county will not be solved exclusively by mass transit. Building a trolley from downtown to Ramona is not feasible. As taxpayers, we have been paying a ½ sales tax increase for 15 years to pay for these promised road and safety enhancements. I know that in Alpine, where I live, we want the road and safety improvements we were promised, not smoke and mirrors compromises. I’m tired of politicians at SANDAG selling out the taxpayers and it is time that we push back and demand to be treated fairly.

Steve Vaus: As Chair of SANDAG, I have worked closely with Santee Mayor Minto, El Cajon Mayor Wells, San Diego Mayor Faulconer and other East County leaders to budget $90 million to improve Highway 52, Highway 67, and other problem areas. I am committed to completion of the projects promised to voters in the TransNet initiative in 2004. Expanding transit is important also, particularly in the densely populated areas of the county. In Supervisor District 2, for example, the Grantville neighborhood is definitely well-suited to transit, given its location near SDSU and the new SDSU stadium complex. However, other areas of the county need improved and expanded freeways and highways. Most of Supervisor District 2 is in that category. As Supervisor, I will continue to fight to maintain critical funding for East County freeways and highways.

Q: As we fight the COVID-19 pandemic, do you believe the County should prioritize health concerns or businesses reopening?

Joel Anderson: I think the real question isn't choosing between business or human health. The real question is whether we are using medical science or political science to fight COVID. I believe if we start using medical science, we can open more businesses in less time while protecting at-risk vulnerable populations. The San Diego Medical Society endorsed me because I have a plan. Unfortunately, my plan can't be summed up in a sound bite.

Steve Vaus: First, it’s important to recognize that the rules are established by the State of California. That’s why I will push hard on the Governor’s office to allow more local control. This is not a one-size-fits-all pandemic, and local leaders should have more authority to set the terms in their communities. Regarding the balance of health concerns and business. I believe we have to do both. There are highly vulnerable populations that need to be protected. Senior care facilities are are good example. The county health officials need to be more aggressive in acting to ensure the safety of residents of congregate care settings.

I do believe that Poway has done a good job balancing safety and offering a lifeline to businesses. Under my leadership, our city council approved one of the first small business loan programs, setting aside $2 million from our reserve fund. Also, under my leadership we purchased 100 picnic tables and distributed them to local restaurants so they could continue their operation during the pandemic. I also initiated a program to allow small businesses to operate in our parks at no cost. That program has since been copied by the City and County of San Diego.

Q: How should the County of San Diego address the homelessness crisis?

Joel Anderson: In the legislature, I worked to bring millions of dollars in mental health funding to San Diego County and sadly our supervisors choose to not use it. When elected Supervisor, I will leverage my relationships in Sacramento to ensure our county receives its fair share of mental health and homelessness funding.

Steve Vaus: Addressing the homelessness crisis in San Diego County is one of my three top priorities as Supervisor. As I said earlier, we need to implement effective and accountable programs that treat the causes of chronic homelessness. Of particular importance is addressing the mental health problems that many homeless suffer from. Additionally, the county must do a better job of addressing the substance abuse so common among the homeless. Drug and alcohol use only worsens the problems associated with homelessness. But, it’s important to note that I will not allow homeless encampments to overtake public spaces. Parks, sidewalks and canyons are for the public to use and enjoy. Maintaining safe and clean public areas is a core obligation of local government.

Poway City Council: Pre-Forum Questionnaire

The Green Valley Civic Association, Poway Chamber of Commerce, COX, and Poway Kiwanis partnered on two Virtual Candidates Forums to find out where candidates stand on important issues that will affect you and your community.

Q: Describe your personal/professional background

1. Phil Factor: Retired Teacher, Coach, and Counselor

2. Caylin Frank: Born and raised in North County, I received my Bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of San Diego and began my career in public service with the US House of Representatives. I later went to the County of San Diego, where I served as a senior policy advisor for over a decade. When my husband and I moved to Poway to raise our family, I saw an opportunity to use my knowledge and experience to make my children's hometown great. I've proudly served on the Poway City Council since 2018. We have two children, a 2.5 year old daughter and a six month old son. I'm a proud member of Soroptimist International of Poway and work closely with the Poway Chamber of Commerce.

3. Chris Olps: Systems Engineer

4. Barry Leonard: Retired business owner/current City Councilmember

Q: Why are you seeking this office?

1. Phil Factor: I am running for Poway City Council District 2, because I want to ensure the needs of the community come first. I moved to Poway over 40 years ago with my wife. We have raised our two sons here and it has been one of our greatest decisions ever. I am deeply rooted and devoted to the community. I have worked as a teacher for 42 years, as well as a counselor, coach, and community advocate. I have provided guidance and support to my students and their families. And going forward I want to do the same for my community.

2. Caylin Frank: Choosing where to raise your children is a hugely important decision. When we chose Poway, it was because of it's community values, top-notch amenities and safe neighborhoods. With my background in local government and public policy, I am able to use that experience to be a better advocate for South Poway residents. As the only woman with young children on the council (or running), I represent a perspective that has not had a voice on the council in some time. Many people come to Poway and stay in Poway to raise their families and we need to think about the future of Poway for the next generation. South Poway is a wonderful community that is continuing to get even better and I will represent residents well as I continue to advocate for things like park improvements, safer streets, and better commercial destinations to enjoy.

3. Chris Olps: South Poway has been unrepresented for far too long. I have been advocating for our values in issues like appointment reform, gerrymandered districts, preserving Big Stone Lodge, and most recently the Fairfield development.

4. Barry Leonard: Continue to improve the City

Q: In light of recent calls for reforms to law enforcement policies and practices, where do you think Poway gets it right and where do you see room for improvement?

1. Phil Factor: Poway is consider one of the safe places to live, thanks to our outstanding Sheriff Department. Most of our Sheriff Deputies have told me that they really like working for the City of Poway. The are well trained and true professionals. Reforms I would like to see. I would like to see them work more with getting to know our youth in positive ways. I would like to see them visit our students at Poway High and Abraxas, working on earning trust and respect through positive experiences. I also would like to see our Sheriff walk the communities and get to know the people in neighborhoods.

2. Caylin Frank: First, I think Poway gets it right by contracting with the San Diego County Sheriff's Department. Not only is it the most fiscally responsible use of taxpayer dollars to provide law enforcement services, but we get a quality of service that would be hard to provide on our own. We also have access to important specialized units that may not be needed everyday, but are critical when the time comes. I have made it clear to our law enforcement leadership that they need be partners in our community and I think we saw that in the cooperation between deputies and protesters during our recent protests. There is always room for improvement and learning from past experiences. Communication between law enforcement and our residents can always be improved and it's important that our deputies have continued training in mental health intervention, homeless outreach, anti-bias education and de-escalation techniques.

3. Chris Olps: Poway outsources to the county for law enforcement. This allows for reduced liability and a shared cost for more diverse resources. Poway can improve by using government allotted money that should be spent locally for resources such as mental health and homelessness, but that continues to be spent in other communities.

4. Barry Leonard: Law Enforcement in Poway is under contract with the County for Sheriff services. The Sheriff Department in Poway continues to perform a difficult job in a very professional manner. Poway is consistently rated the safest city in the County. However, the cost of Public safety consumes a majority of our budget when added to the Poway Fire Dept. We need to be aware of the cost. The Sheriff Department provides a mix of specialized personnel to meet the unique needs of Poway. This includes traffic, patrol, detective and juvenile deputies and their support staff. Poway pays for a Deputy to be assigned at Poway High and to cover other Poway schools as needed. The City Council and City Manager determine the number of people and the mix of coverage. Policing is changing and our Deputies need to handle frequent calls that involve mental health and the increased use of drugs. These people are not necessarily criminals and require more sociology/psychology than law enforcement. Specialized positions like PERT are in constant demand to handle these calls. Better and more treatment facilities are also needed. It is not appropriate to say that all Law Enforcement needs to change. This is especially not true in Poway. The Sheriffs Department as a whole needs to review their tactics and personnel and make changes only where necessary.

Q: What is your position on future development of the land in the Hwy 67/Poway grade area?

1. Phil Factor: I live on Iron Mountain Drive "In the City in the Country" I am absolutely against any future development that would alter the community up here. I have been a leader up in this region since 1988 protecting it as Poway's open rural space. NO on future development.

2. Caylin Frank: A recent pre-development conference asked the city council to provide feedback on a proposed commercial orchid farm and residence on a parcel at this location. The feedback I shared was that this land is ideal for agriculture, but it should maintain our scenic corridor. Something like orchards or vineyards as opposed to large-scale commercial warehouses would be appropriate. I would especially like to see any kind of agricultural proposal include areas open to the public that might be used for educational opportunities and resident enjoyment.

3. Chris Olps: These areas are all zoned either RR-A or OS. The city should be doing everything it can to preserve the integrity of the low zoning, and respect the intent of Prop FF.

4. Barry Leonard: These properties are mostly 40 acre parcels and there is no city water/sewer available. We have only received one request for development in recent history. It was for large greenhouses on the corner of 67/Poway Rd. This City Council did not support it as it was inconsistent with the surrounding area and view scape. If a property owner wants to develop their land within the zoning requirements they have the right to do so. Commercial uses will require a Conditional Use Permit from the Council that may or may not be approved.

Q: What is your position on forming a City “Planning Commission” to help oversee developments in Poway?

1. Phil Factor: This is Phil Factor's plan: I will Implement a Planning and Development Steering Committee which will allow the residence and businesses owner the opportunity share their thoughts. This will ensure shared decisions making with transparency. (My platform on the ballot....Poway City Council Meeting 9/15/2020 Item #13)

2. Caylin Frank: In a small town like Poway, we do not need more bureaucracy. The City offers pre-development conferences for any project, which is not something all cities offer. This is a great opportunity for residents and councilmembers to evaluate future proposals before they come to the city council for a vote. The public and councilmembers can offer feedback, share concerns and make suggestions that the applicant can then incorporate into the project.

3. Chris Olps: The City of Poway currently pays nearly $300 thousand dollars for an economic development director. Council frequently states that “Poway is almost built out”. I believe that a volunteer based planning commission, with representation from each district, is a more appropriate solution for an “almost built out” city than a single highly paid individual.

4. Barry Leonard: The City Council acts as the Planning Commission. We form specific committees as necessary to gather community input when necessary. This was the case when the Poway Road Specific Plan was created to have a framework for future development along Poway Road.

Q: Prop FF, approved by Poway voters in 1988, requires voter approval of land use changes to certain property if such changes would increase the density or intensify the use permitted. Do you think the proposition is vulnerable to being challenged in the courts or by the state of California?

1. Phil Factor: Prop FF has been one of the greatest safeguards for the Poway Community. I am concerned that it could be under future attack because of State mandates. I will do all I can as your next City Council Member to protect our City in the Country and stand behind Prop FF.

2. Caylin Frank: I would not support any efforts to weaken or eliminate Prop FF. That said, the rhetoric and legislation from Sacramento is very concerning for voter approval initiatives like ours. The legislature continues to pass overreaching laws that erode local control and I would not rule out the possibility of Prop FF being evaluated by the courts.

3. Chris Olps: Yes, I believe Prop FF is vulnerable.

4. Barry Leonard: Absolutely. There is an effort by many of the Sacramento lawmakers to eliminate Local Control in all cities, especially in regard to housing density. Recently, a law was passed to allow Auxiliary Dwelling Units in single family neighborhoods. These ADUs can allow a home owner to add 1 or 2 additional housing units to an existing home without regard to parking or neighborhood opposition. Local City regulations are over ruled and relaxed permitting must be given. This also applies to private neighborhoods with HOA control. This law alone has the potential to change existing neighborhoods into crowded multifamily areas with no available parking. This past year there were many bills submitted to the legislature that would reduce Local Control and increase density in our Cities. One of these bills would have invalidated Poway's Prop FF. Many of them didn't get to the Governor due to the shortened session. I expect that these efforts will continue and that Prop FF will be declared an illegal anti housing measure.

Q: What has the City of Poway done well in response to COVID-19 and what could the city have done better to support its small businesses and citizens during this pandemic?

1. Phil Factor: The Covid -19 has hurt our small /large business and citizens in Poway. This has been a struggle for everyone. I think our City has reached out and helped ( small business loans, restaurant tables for outdoor dining, non -fee open parks usage for fitness/exercise business/ and places of worship) the City has de-regulated signs to promote businesses. The City of Poway has promoted health and safety with reminder signs throughout the community. I think most of our residence did stay home from March- July and continue to wear masks when in public. PUSD is doing the best they can in working to educate our youth in school. Health Stats on Covid 19 are available daily so the public here is well informed. I think the old saying we "ALL NEED TO HANG IN THERE" together our City will get through this together.

2. Caylin Frank: The City of Poway has taken unprecedented steps to support our local businesses and residents while following all state and county health orders. We created the small business loan program (PEARL) funded by our reserves and we eased restrictions to allow expanded outdoor operations. We've provided picnic tables on loan and offered a free signage kit to help businesses comply with required guidelines. We opened our parks to outdoor fitness classes and will be significantly expanding residents' ability to do city business online through new software programs. I will continue to work closely with the Chamber and our business community to support small businesses during this difficult time and into the future.

3. Chris Olps: Poway has a serious problem with a very limited selection of internet providers. The pandemic has highlighted this problem to the extreme. The city needs to take action to resolve this. I propose Poway identify the internet as a public utility. The effects of this are significant as it can help with budget issues, create jobs, benefit small businesses, residents working from home and students.

4. Barry Leonard: The City of Poway is in the forefront of supporting our local businesses. We allocated $2m for low interest, small business loans intended to subsidize struggling businesses. We also created a program to provide free picnic tables to local restaurants and to relax the regulations on outside dining. These tables will be redeployed to our parks when no longer needed by the restaurants. The City also created a plan to allow local exercise businesses and houses of worship to use our open space in our parks. These programs have been beneficial to our businesses. The City of Poway is required to follow the directives of the Governor and the County Health Officer. As much as we may like to, we do not have the discretion to allow go against the higher powers.

Q: Proposition 15 – often referred to as Split Roll -- would amend the California State Constitution to require commercial and industrial properties, except those zoned as commercial agriculture, to be taxed based on their market value, rather than a property's purchase price, with annual increases equal to the rate of inflation or 2 percent, whichever is lower, as it has been done under the existing Prop 13. Do you support or oppose this proposition and why?

1. Phil Factor: I am against Prop 15 because it is the wrong timing to implement this on businesses. Many business are struggling with the recession caused by the Covid -19. Businesses should not be taxed more. Let's find ways to help our business get back their earnings...not run them out of the State of California.

2. Caylin Frank: I absolutely oppose Proposition 15, it would be devastating to our local businesses during a time when they are already struggling to survive. By creating skyrocketing and unpredictable property tax bills, businesses will see soaring rents and residents will see our high cost of living rise even higher as the cost of doing business grows. Proposition 15 is bad for business and bad for residents.

3. Chris Olps: I have strong reservations based on past propositions from the state, that have been similar in nature. Funds have been misappropriated in the past furthering many of California’s budget issues. I have no position at this time, but I will be following this closely as it may provide additional city and school funding.

4. Barry Leonard: This is an effort by Sacramento to tax all of us under the guise of equality. They claim it will only affect the big businesses and big landlords while small business owners will get a break and the schools will benefit. This is harmful to all. Big business and big landlords DO NOT PAY TAXES. Their taxes are passed along as higher prices and paid by their customers, you and me. Small business depends on big business to survive. Small business also rents from big landlords. Small business will hire less people and raise prices to pay higher rent. The average person will pay a high price if Prop 15 passes. Jobs will be lost. The taxpayers already pay for the schools but the funds are spent elsewhere instead of flowing to the classrooms. This formula needs to be fixed. The people behind Prop 15 have stated that they will come after homeowners next.

Q: List your top priorities as a Poway City Council member.

1. Phil Factor: I, Phil Factor will be a representative who listens, cares, and works hard to find solutions with a collective focus. I will put people first. I will work for you.

2. Caylin Frank: Public safety and ensuring our city remains the safest in the county.
   Supporting our small businesses and promoting our local economy. Advocating for park and open space enhancements and responsible revitalization of commercial centers. Protecting taxpayer dollars and ensuring they are spent wisely to best serve our residents. Focusing on our future by using long-term vision to keep our city thriving.

3. Chris Olps: Infrastructure, Budget, Development

4. Barry Leonard: Continue to keep our residents safe.
   Continue to improve the quality of life for all. Continue to spend less than we take in. Continue to hire and train incredible employees. Leave the City better than I found it.

PUSD Board Candidates: Pre-Forum Questionnaire

The Green Valley Civic Association, Poway Chamber of Commerce, COX, and Poway Kiwanis partnered on two Virtual Candidates Forums to find out where candidates stand on important issues that will affect you and your community.

Q: Describe your personal/professional background (i.e. schools your children attend(ed), profession, involvement in the PUSD community, etc.)

1. Cindy Sytsma: After spending some time as a Correctional Deputy, I transitioned to education. I have been an educator for 22 years. I have taught all grades in both general and special ed. I have spent the last 16 years working at the university in both teacher credentialing courses and criminal justice courses. When my children entered the school, I jumped in with both feet to get involved. I have served on the PTA board every year, headed several committees, been a co-room parent every year, to name a few.

2. Jimmy Karam: I’m a retired Navy Supply Corps Officer (Supply Corps Officers are essentially the business managers of the Navy). I have over 25-years of leadership experience in multiple disciplines to include Program Management, Government Contracting, Academic Administration, and Curriculum Development.
   My last tour in the Navy (2013-2016), I served at the United States Naval Academy (USNA) as the Economics Department Associate Chair. I’m currently an adjunct Economics Professor at Palomar College, teaching two sections of Economics at Escondido High as part of their Dual Enrollment program. As for my day job, I’m a Program Manager leading an Engineering staff of 40 plus people. My education includes a Bachelor of Science degree from USNA, an MBA from USC, and a Masters in Performance Psychology from National University. In addition to my academic, business and management experience, I’m also a member and certified mental performance consultant with the Association of Applied Sports Psychology. I was able to earn this certification after volunteering over 400 hours with the Poway High Football team for the past two years as their Leadership and Mental Skills coach. I've been married to Verena for over 20 years now, and we have literally lived all over the country, including a couple of years in Italy. We have lived in PUSD since 2007, with the exception of 2013-1016 when we lived in Annapolis, MD. Our children have attended Creekside Elementary, Garden Road Elementary, Twin Peaks Middle School, and Poway High School. • Lisa graduated from Poway High School in 2018 • Julian transferred from Palomar College to UC Davis and is remotely attending classes from the “Karam Campus” here in Poway • Emerson is attending Poway High School as a Freshmen via the Virtual Learning Academy (VLA) • Cooper is enjoying his time learning and socializing with friends at Garden Road Elementary via VLA. Verena has decided not to work this year so she can stay home and assist with Cooper’s little school pod of friends here on “Karam Campus”

3. Darshana Patel: Professional: 
   • BA Occidental College • Ph.D. Biophysics, UC Irvine • Scientist, Genentech, Inc. Selected Board positions since 2010: • PUSD Board of Education Trustee (past President, VP, Clerk) • California School Boards Association (Delegate, Vice-Chair Legislation) • Rancho Peñasquitos Planning Board (Land Use, past Vice-Chair) • SDPD Police Captain’s Advisory Board • Executive board PVES PTA and Foundation My daughters attend Park Village Elementary, Mesa Verde Middle, and Westview High School.

4. Tim Dougherty: Tim grew up in a small business environment in Southern New Jersey, where his father served on his local school board for 15 years. Tim went on to be a Div. I athlete and obtained a BSMEngineering and M. Eng. at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA.
   In New Jersey Tim has worked as a substitute teacher of Technology and wrestling coach at a middle school. Here in San Diego, Tim continued teaching through coaching the Torrey Pines youth wrestling team for several years. He now coaches softball for his daughters. Tim currently works as a Senior Director of Supply Chain for a local retailer where each year a group of senior industrial engineers works on a design project that he manages along with a USD faculty member. He is Lean/Six Sigma trained and has lead transformative large-scale projects, programs, and teams. Tim also is an adjunct at USD, teaching Manufacturing Processes. Tim knows what it’s like to be an online student, an online teacher, a business operator, and a parent. He hopes to use this knowledge and experience to make the Poway Unified School District even better for his daughters and his community.

Q: Why are you seeking this office?

1. Cindy Sytsma: I have dedicated most of my adult life to schools and children programs. It would be a great honor to be able to continue to make a positive impact for children on a greater scale.

2. Jimmy Karam: I bring a skill set that is unmatched by any other candidate and current board member. I believe my experiences in education, the military, and leadership can contribute to what our community needs in this time of uncertainty. We are going to be faced with great challenges in the next four years. Not only are we going to have to figure out how to deal with the second and third order effects of COVID-19, but we are also going to have to deal with financial struggles that many school districts are facing as we resist deficit spending practices. Looking forward, it is imperative for our future board members to provide fiscal oversight and carefully evaluate future spending decisions.  
   With over 25-years of leadership experience in multiple disciplines to include Program Management, Government Contracting, Academic Administration, and Curriculum Development, I have trained to figuratively parachute into organizations, quickly assess the requirements necessary to get the job done, and then make it happen. These skills have served me well as the Naval Academy's Economics Department Associate Chair, a Logistics Officer serving in the Mediterranean Sea, and an Adjunct Professor at Palomar College, and ensure my capability to lead as your School Board Trustee in these unprecedented times.

3. Darshana Patel: I am running for a second term on the PUSD Board of Education because I am the proven leader with a track record of understanding complex issues, listening to families and students, and making informed decisions under difficult circumstances. I am fully dedicated to my role since advocating for public education is my passion.

4. Tim Dougherty: PUSD has been celebrated for its educational excellence for years. This is why people seek our schools when establishing their families. However, in the recent past, significant challenges have prevented the improvement of the education. During my time in the District, I have not seen these challenges overcome nor have I seen defined measures of success for the Board. Covid has amplified the challenges and brought more our way. I want a better educational experience for our kids. I believe my skill set and years of experience in business, engineering, and education make me an ideal Trustee to represent the best interest of Area A.

Q: What are your thoughts on making distance at-home learning a permanent option for students?

1. Cindy Sytsma: A parent’s educational choice is personal. If virtual school is the best fit for a family then it should remain an option. However, the majority of families believe that on campus learning is the right fit. Our kids thrive when they work in groups, socialize, learn how to handle conflict, join programs, etc. For many children, school is their safe place as sadly home is not their happy place. These kids need school for a safe human connection with teachers and friends who believe in them.

2. Jimmy Karam: I’m a fan of Virtual Learning Academy as an option for parents, teachers, and students. I understand this option is not ideal for many, but there are a number of people that do prefer this method of learning. I honestly feel that my family personally has thrived in this environment. There are definitely ways we can improved virtual learning, but it has proven to be a viable option forward and should continue well passed COVID.

3. Darshana Patel: We have invested significant time and resources in building a virtual platform at all grade levels. I am open to working with teachers, staff, and the community to determine whether we can make this a long-term option, perhaps through PUSD Alternative Programs, for example.

4. Tim Dougherty: Absolutely, yes. If industry is any indication, remote working and learning are here to stay. The trick is…how much, who, and when? Face-to-face learning is always best. Depending on the age and subject, there are many courses that can be delivered online, be effective, and increase efficiency of students, teachers, and other resources. However, as we learned in the spring and now, it can be very complicated and require solutions outside of our comfort zone. I would propose the Virtual Learning Academy (virtual learning option) quickly appoint someone as a full-time leader of this important “school”. This role would have sole cross-department and cross-services responsibility for leading quick design iteration and implementation of the virtual learning experience while integrating it into traditional learning.

Q: With the rising costs of a four-year college education and pandemic restrictions to a traditional four-year college experience, many high school students are exploring alternative paths and options for their future careers and job opportunities. How can the district better support and address their needs?

1. Cindy Sytsma: I know from years of extensive research and experience of working at all grades and with the vast exceptionalities of children, that as much as we would love for them to all go to college, it is not realistic. Our children are beautiful and talented in their own way. They need to expand their talents beyond core academics. They need programs such as the arts and trade programs to make them well-rounded individuals and better prepared with other outlets to handle the uncertainties that lie ahead.

2. Jimmy Karam: PUSD should keep investing in Career Pathways and expand our relationship with Community Colleges. Career Pathways makes education relevant for our students. It provides exposure to many different opportunities outside of the traditional academic route. Career Pathways is ideal for closing the achievement gap. 
   In addition, PUSD needs to do a better job at incorporating Dual Enrollment Program with local community colleges. This is a great way for students to earn academic credit in high school and college.

3. Darshana Patel: The District has already started expanding existing CTE programs and I am supporting ways to add more opportunities, such as a Middle College through a partnership with Palomar College. Also, we have a strong partnership with the Poway Chamber and my hope is that we can find ways to increase mentorship and internship opportunities.

4. Tim Dougherty: This is exactly right. Like primary and secondary education, I believe the colleges and universities are facing big changes. Financially, many colleges and universities will be extremely challenged, and options could soon be different. Alternative paths and options for post-secondary education and careers needs to paramount. I think there is an opportunity for PUSD to create key partnerships with local colleges and business to creatively fund the education, training, and employment of our students simultaneously. Many employers already partially fund college tuitions. PUSD needs to engage advisors, local colleges, universities, trade schools and businesses immediately. In summary, I believe the end of high school, the beginning of training or college and/or the start of a career can happen in parallel over a longer period of time.

Q: Do you believe there are systemic issues of racial injustice present in the school district? If so, how should they be addressed?

1. Cindy Sytsma: The definition of systemic, means affecting the whole body. No, I don’t believe there are systemic issues of racial injustice in the district. I do believe there are instances of racial injustice. If there is 1 instance that is too many. The path to the eradication of racial injustice starts with education. Curriculum needs to span the grades. Our district has beautiful diversity. Secondary schools have adopted “No Place for Hate,” our elementary schools have kindness week. It is a great start.

2. Jimmy Karam: Yes, 100%! PUSD Board passed Resolution No. 116-2020 Reaffirming PUSD’s Commitment to Fight Racism and Correct Systemic Inequity, now is the time for follow through and action. I am quite pleased with the steps PUSD has taken since June with partnering with SDCOE’s Equity Department Coaches, strengthening discipline procedures, ensuring all sites engage in anti-bias training, etc.
   I still believe there is one aspect of confronting systemic racism that is missing from all the good things PUSD is accomplishing thus far. I believe our students still need a “Safe Place” to go to discuss and address their experiences. The Naval Academy has a similar program where faculty and staff can opt in for more formal training and then be certified as a “Safe Place” as annotated on their respective office/classroom door. When students experience an adverse experience (i.e. racial injustice, harassment, sexual assault, etc.), they now have a number of options to go to for help. The “Safe Place” program educates staff volunteers on how to speak with students in distress and then guide them through a series of protocols that are respectful of the parties involved in the incident.

3. Darshana Patel: Yes. I am co-author of PUSD Board Resolution 116-2020, which directs the District to confront systemic racism. The resolution says the District will align resources to meet student needs and re-examine curriculum text selections, hiring practices, student discipline and program access through a partnership with students, staff, parents, and community. I have seen a draft of the plan and am looking forward to real change and accountability.

4. Tim Dougherty: From our personal experience in the District, I say no. In the 3 years at our school, I have met new teachers, parents, and kids and experienced nothing but high respect and treatment of all races.
   That said, I understand there have recently been PUSD student incidents reported and introspection of the alignment of the number of teachers of certain races to students of the same race. I understand the Board is taking a close look at hiring practices to understand if there were also disproportionate applicants and qualified candidates. If qualified candidates were overlooked because of race; that is a problem. As for the student incidents, we need to use those as opportunities to educate those involved. I believe people are inherently good and deserve a chance to correct their actions. This education starts at home. Parents and students need to be accountable.

Q: What value do you place on the performing arts and what should the school district’s role be in supporting the Arts?

1. Cindy Sytsma: I significantly value the performing arts. Both of my children are involved in music theater. My son has always been confident and outgoing. My older daughter has always struggled with low self-esteem and anxiety. After 1 year of music theater, her confidence and personality began to take hold. I wrote my dissertation on NCLB. As a special ed teacher, I place immense value in academics; many children struggle with reading, writing, and math. Performing arts allow children to shine in other ways.

2. Jimmy Karam: In Maryland, my daughter picked up the viola as early as second grade. I see no reason to make this possible for our students in PUSD. I’m a big advocate for performing arts in our schools!
   PUSD can start by meeting the California State Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) Standards. I’m not convinced PUSD is addressing this issue to the best of its abilities. I understand XPloration has been implemented to address the inequality of VAPA program in out elementary schools, but again I’m not convinced this is meeting state standards. Lastly, back in 2018 there was PUSD VAPA Task Force that provided recommendations on the best way to move forward in meeting state standards. PUSD needs to start there and take action on those recommendations.

3. Darshana Patel: I am a patron of our PUSD visual and performing arts and have attended many high school performances throughout the district. The district formed a VAPA committee and it produced a 5-year Strategic Plan in 2019. Despite looming budgetary challenges, I am committed to continuing resource allocation to our VAPA programs at all grade levels.

4. Tim Dougherty: I place a very high value on the Performing Arts. When I was young, there was no Theatre Arts program at my high school. Later in life, I grew an appreciation for the Theatre Arts, mostly from watching my sister-in-law build a Theatre Arts program from scratch, at that very same HS. Year over year, I am amazed at the talent and level of enthusiasm her students put into their annual musical. Studies show students who study the arts are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement. The District should encourage and support these programs. There are underutilized resources and businesses in local communities with whom we can develop creative partnerships to solve problems during these challenging times. These partnerships need to be financially viable.

Q: List your top priorities as a member of the PUSD Board of Education

1. Cindy Sytsma: Improve both general and special education programs, build community involvement, foster inclusiveness and equity, and transparency.

2. Jimmy Karam: 1) More counselors on campus to help with our children's social and emotional development by leveraging the community to proactively assist in helping our children with mental and life skills. 
   2) Improved Community Relations. PUSD needs to stop making top-down decisions that impact the community. 3) Confront Systemic Racism and Social Inequalities.

3. Darshana Patel: My top priorities are:
   • Student equity and access in all school programs • Social-emotional wellness for our students at all grade levels • Advocacy for adequate public-school funding Visit www.patel4pusd.wordpress.com for more details

4. Tim Dougherty: My top priorities for PUSD are Reopening/Post Covid Learning, Facilities/Land Use, and the Budget Deficit. They are separate but deeply intertwined. The pandemic has forced education to redesign its processes and delivery of education. This design must be able to iterate quickly. Vulnerable and young students, along with their parents, are feeling the brunt of school closures. The proposed bond measure to fix aging facilities failed in March. There is no new solution. Year after year, expenses outpace revenues, and Covid has amplified this problem. My experience and background make me uniquely qualified to address these major hurdles. I will create goals and KPIs for myself, tied to these and other priorities, so the voters can later measure my success.

Watch the PUSD and City Council Candidates Forum

Recorded from Wednesday, September 23, 2020

Poway Unified School District Board 
Area A: Darshana Patel (incumbent) & Tim Dougherty
Area E: Jimmy Karam & Cindy Sytsma

Poway City Council
District 2: Barry Leonard (incumbent) & Phil Factor
District 4: Caylin Frank (incumbent) & Chris Olps & Frank Fournier

Virtual Candidates Forum via Zoom

SEPTEMBER 23 • SEPTEMBER 30 • 6 PM

The GVCA is proud to continue its long tradition of hosting candidates forums during general elections. Due to state restrictions for large gatherings, this year’s forums will be conducted virtually in partnership with the Poway Chamber of Commerce, Cox and Kiwanis of Poway.

The forums will be held live on September 23rd and September 30th at 6:00 pm. The taped events and additional candidate Q&A responses will be available online at www.GVCA.info and www.poway.com

To submit a question or topic for consideration, email us at president@gvca.info.

Wednesday, September 23 at 6pm

Poway Unified School District Board 
Area A: Darshana Patel (incumbent) & Tim Dougherty
Area E: Jimmy Karam & Cindy Sytsma

Poway City Council
District 2: Barry Leonard (incumbent) & Phil Factor
District 4: Caylin Frank (incumbent) & Chris Olps & Frank Fournier

Wednesday, September 30 at 6pm

San Diego County Board of Supervisors 
District 2: Steve Vaus (tentative) & Joel Anderson

California State Assembly 
77th District: Brian Maienschein (incumbent/tentative) & June Cutter

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Voters facing big decisions need information, not emotion

2020 is shaping up to be a big year for Poway residents to make important decisions at the ballot box. Two upcoming ballot issues are contentious and divisive as their passage could impact the quality of life for many in our community. While emotion often plays into the decision- making process, we advocate for an informed approach – taking a step back to understand the facts without bias. Here, we take a look at two key issues voters are facing this year. And see our LMD update inside for information on an issue that is still alive and could return to the ballot in 2021.

MEASURE P:
$448 Million PUSD School Improvement Bond

Last fall, Poway Unified School District initiated a Facilities Master Plan process to evaluate and score the condition of all 39 school facilities in the district. The study determined that 62 percent (24 out of 39) of PUSD schools will be in “poor” condition by the year 2023.

To help fund improvements to school facilities, the district has put forth a bond measure, the first since the billion dollar Prop U capital appreciation bond (CAB) was approved in 2008. On March 3rd voters across the entire Poway Unified School District region will vote on Measure P which seeks approval for $448,000,000 in bonds to improve classrooms, science labs, and career-training facilities that support college and preparation/career readiness.

• Passage will require at least 55% of voter approval.

• If the measure passes, property taxes for all homeowners in the PUSD region will increase $33.90 for every $100,000 of assessed value while the bonds are outstanding.

• If approved, PUSD would be eligible for $90,000,000 in additional state matching funds.

• The money from the bond measure cannot be used for salaries, benefits or pensions for administrators or teachers. However, it could free up money in the district’s general fund that would otherwise fund facilities needs and be used for other programs and positions.

• This bond measure includes community facilities districts (CFDs) – communities that assess a Mello Roos Special Tax – because Mello Roos funds may not be used for the ongoing repair, improvement, or maintenance of school facilities; they can only fund the construction of new facilities projects.

The Farm in Poway

Another potential hot-button ballot measure could determine the fate of the former StoneRidge Country Club. If placed on the November 3rd ballot by City Council, all voters in the City of Poway will be asked to approve a measure allowing the rezoning and specific plan for the 117 acres of the StoneRidge Country Club property. The proposed project is known as the “The Farm in Poway” and would include:

• 160 homes on 33.86 acres for an average of 4.7 dwellings per acre

• A 4,246 sq ft community social center, 2,673 sq ft cafe with wine and beer garden, butterfly farm, athletic club with pool, tennis and pickleball courts

• Project amenities will include a tot lot, community gardens, public trails, dog park, amphitheater, 15+ acres of agricultural fields, and 20+ acres of open space

• The GVCA is moderating a Q&A event on Sunday, March 1st at 4:00 pm at Painted Rock Elementary School. The panel will includerepresentatives from the developer, consultants, and City staff who will answer audience questions about the project.

Landscape Maintenance District (LMD) UPDATE

Following the defeat of the ballot measures in May 2018 to create two new LMDs and assessments along Espola Road (86-1) and Twin Peaks Road (83-1), City Staff formed an LMD Advisory Group comprised of residents from both LMDs. The Advisory Group is working with KTU&A, a landscape consultant retained by the City, to obtain feedback from residents in LMD areas, draft a Master Landscape Plan, and communicate with the public.

Upcoming activities and public outreach include:

• Survey in April 2020 to gain an understanding of how residents in the two LMDs feel about the condition of landscaping in their district and their priorities for future work.

• Community workshops in June 2020 to obtain public input on the Master Landscape plan.

• Dedicated LMD website available soon: www.powayLMD.com

Residents in these districts are encouraged to watch their mail for a postcard mailing on the upcoming survey and to contact the advisory group with questions at any time by emailing: powayLMDadvisory@gmail.com

City Council Approves funds for Landscape Map for LMDs

At the August 6, 2019 City Council Meeting, council approved about $86,000 in funding requested by the LMD Citizens Advisory Panel to create landscape conceptual plans for areas of the LMDS along Espola Road and Twin Peaks Road. The plan will be done by the city’s landscape architect take about six to nine months to complete. This plan is in preparation for a future vote of whether to approve new assessments for the two LMD districts. It will detail proposed improvements and outline expected cost to help voters decide.

2018 Candidates Pre-Forum Q&A

We asked the candidates some “Pre-Forum” questions prior to the upcoming forum. Please click the ORANGE buttons below to read the Pre-Forum Q&A.

Attend the Forum for additional live and audience questions

Wednesday, October 3rd at Painted Rock Elementary School

• 6:30 PUSD Board-District B

• 7:30 Poway Mayor / Poway City Council At Large

• 8:30 Poway City Council-Districts 1 & 3

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City Council Districts

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Measure W: Don’t be Fooled – VOTE NO ON W

Whenever something is labeled a “no brainer” it should set alarm bells off in your head.  The prospect of a 240-room hotel complex at Maderas Golf Club off of Espola Road is ringing like a 5-alarm fire drill.  But the developer of this proposed project, Sunroad Enterprises, is tone deaf. They failed to garner input from the community before slipping the ballot measure request onto City Council’s agenda just under the deadline for it to appear on the November ballot. 

No vetting by the community or council. No plan presented. (Drawings were later rendered in haste to tempt residents with eye candy.) Very few residents even knew the proposal was being brought before council.

The desperate flood of Yes on W postcards residents have received leading up to the election are disingenuous and transparently misleading. Emblazoned with buzzwords like “guarantee“…”good neighbor” …“quality of life” …”funding for parks, libraries and paramedics” … these campaign promises are empty and patronizing to Poway residents. 

Magical thinking
Some may like the idea of new tax revenue brought into the City on someone else’s shoulders (via a Transient Occupancy Tax paid by hotel guests). But where is this magical $1.5 million the developer keeps touting coming from? What is the formula? Is it based on near-complete occupancy of a 240-room resort?  It should be noted that the sprawling Rancho Bernardo Inn is 287 rooms. Neither Sunroad nor the community has any say in how tax revenue, which would go into the general fund, would be spent. 

No guarantees
If Measure W passes, the die is cast. The land would be approved for a hotel development up to 240-rooms for the current and future owner of the property. Critical decisions on location, square footage, height and more would be in the hands of city staff with approval by three members of a future city council.  

Skirting an updated Environmental Impact Report?
Council approved putting Measure W on the ballot based on a 26-year-old Environmental Impact Report. Key factors such as density, traffic, water, and fire safety have changed significantly since the 1980 report. The developer will do whatever it can to limit the extent of any new EIR that would be required by the city.

Questionable history
Sunroad is a developer with storied and questionable business practices, including having to remove the top two floors of an overbuilt office building near Montgomery Field and a pay-to-play scheme with the City of San Diego. 

GVCA has your best interests
The GVCA has been a watchdog for the quality of life in Poway since 1960. We keep an eye on issues such as water rates, inappropriate variances, fiscal responsibility, as well as support of local youth activities and events. 

Vote NO on W

We know Poway residents are smarter than the developer gives us credit for. Demand honesty, more information and transparency at the ballot by voting NO on W.

Be sure to read our arguments against Measure W in your voter guide.

Vote No: Measure W Maderas Hotel

When the idea of allowing a 240-room hotel development at Maderas Golf Club (Measure “W” on the November ballot) first surfaced in the public arena this summer, it elicited a variety of reactions from residents: curiosity, excitement, skepticism, opposition. Before taking a position on this potential land use change and major development, the GVCA board did its homework.

Upon learning that a land use request and ballot measure would go before a vote of City Council on July 19th, the GVCA had a mere two weeks to research the facts. In that time, we:

• Obtained public records from the City Clerk’s office related to the land use request, including the Original Specific Plan, the Amended Specific Plan, and a recent traffic study
• Conducted an email poll to gauge support or opposition of the proposal
• Met with a representative from Sunroad Enterprises, the property owner and developer
• Contacted City Council members

PROCEED WITH CAUTION

What we learned (and didn’t learn) left us with more questions than answers. Because the GVCA had serious concerns about the size of the development (akin to the 287-room Rancho Bernardo Inn), the potential impact (traffic, fire safety, water usage, noise, visual), and the hasty process by which the measure was brought to Council, with little to no information or input from the community, we cautioned Council against approving the applicant’s request. 

WHERE WAS THE VETTING?

With the exception of Councilman Dave Grosch, City Council approved the proposal without questioning the 26-year-old Environmental Impact Report, the appropriateness of a 240-room resort, the validity of a promised $1.5 mil in hotel tax revenue, or preliminary support from the community, 

A development of this magnitude and potential impact, demands proper vetting by the City Staff and City Council on behalf of the residents of Poway before reaching the ballot, not a rubber stamp of a vague and open-ended ballot measure which simply states:

Do you approve Specific Plan Amendment 16- 002 as adopted by the Poway City Council to amend the Old Coach Golf Estates Specific Plan, to allow development of a hotel with up to 240 rooms on the existing Maderas Golf Course site located at 17750 Old Coach Road?

Voters need a clearer understanding of what it is they are voting on and the impact their decision could have. It should be noted that a hotel was not approved in the Original Specific Plan due to community concerns. 

KEY DECISIONS OUT OF VOTERS HANDS

Without additional parameters on the land use (i.e. height limit, square footage, etc.) spelled out on the ballot, these key decisions will be left up to approval by a future City Council if the measure passes. The promise of community workshops cannot ease serious concerns about the recent disconnect in communication between Staff, Council and the community on major projects and developments.

LETS GET IT RIGHT

The GVCA is fully supportive of a thriving economic environment in Poway. We are active members of the Poway Chamber of Commerce and its Board of Directors, and proud supporters of Poway OnStage performances at the Poway Performing Arts Center. In order for a major hotel development in Poway to be a win-win for everyone involved, we need to get it right BEFORE it reaches the ballot. Measures such as this require more information, honesty and transparency. Voters should demand it by voting NO on W.

Candidate Responses to GVCA's Questions

As the November election nears, one of the roles the GVCA has traditionally taken is to inform the community about the candidates who are seeking local office for Poway City Council and Poway Unified School District.  As such, we asked the candidates questions relevant to the concerns of our community. 

Presented below are the candidates' verbatim responses.

Looking for PUSD School Board Candidates

Two seats of the five seats on the Poway Unifed School District Board of Education are up for general election in November. One seat is currently held by incumbent Kimberly Beatty and the second is held by long-time board member Andy Patapow who is not seeking re-election.

As an award-winning school district, PUSD needs strong, stable leadership on its board of directors to help sustain its excellence in education which also protects home values in the area. Currently, there are no members on the board who live in the City of Poway.

If you are interested in running for one of the open seats, a group called The Coalition for Effective School Board Leadership is seeking candidates to endorse. The group consists of 20 parents, teachers, local business owners, and community leaders, including former Poway High School Principal, Scott Fisher.

For more information, visit:

www.coalition4effectiveschoolboard.com

The candidate filing deadline for this election is August 12, 2016. 

GVCA thanks Don Higginson for 28 years of service as Mayor and Councilman

Don Higginson was elected to the Poway City Council in 1986 at a time when our City was still establishing its identity. Clearly the citizens of Poway wanted to retain the rural flavor of the Community, but they also needed leadership to develop priorities for Poway’s future and to use the power of the recently approved Redevelopment Agency and Poway Business Park to help build a strong financial base. They also required leadership that would ensure wise use of Poway’s funds to develop the infrastructure that would make our City more livable. 28 years later, as both Mayor and Councilmember, Don Higginson met those leadership challenges.

Affable and congenial but not flashy or contentious, Don worked hard, often behind the scenes, to help Poway grow while protecting our core values. He was not afraid to take on battles, but preferred diplomacy to confrontation. His votes reflected his view of what he thought was right for the citizens of Poway, and not necessarily because they might make him more popular. Don successfully balanced his Council time with the demands of a being a husband and father and the demands of a busy career.

Don leaves Poway government with a City that is the pride of San Diego County. The GVCA wishes to thank him for his service and hopes that he will continue to find ways to use his talents for the betterment of our Community. 

Farewell to a friend of the City and GVCA

As you may know, Poway City Manager Penny Riley will be retiring effective January 2014. She will be missed. Penny started with the City as an Intern in the 1980s and served many years under Jim Bowersox,

the City’s long-serving first Manager. Penny shared many of Jim’s strengths, including the ability to appreciate the value of differing positions and how to forge consensus and compromise. Her talents have been part of the reason the City has enjoyed renewed prosperity and a period of relative tranquility despite the ever present efforts of the State to poach local government funds. Her efforts, as well as those of Assistant City Manager Tina White, are largely responsible for the success to date of the Revelopment Successor Oversight Board, in stark contrast to that experienced by other jurisdictions. This success will ultimately yield significant financial returns to our Community.

Penny and the GVCA had an excellent relationship, and we thank her for her always pleasant and candid demeanor. She set a high bar for future Poway City Managers with her obvious love for the City and managerial skill set. We wish her all the best for a well-deserved retirement.