Age: 53
Occupation: Food sales representative for Performance Foodservice
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What are the top issues for the City of Scotts Valley and how would you solve them?
Our police, seniors, roads, and budget. I would solve them with our city manager, fellow council members and community.
The state is pushing for more housing with the mandate in the Housing Element to plan for 1,220 new units from 2023 to 2031 but some residents don’t want more traffic and congestion. How do you balance conflicting expectations?
Educating the community on what the state requires. I have grown up here and understand the concerns.
The Housing Element calls for rezoning the Town Center site (58 acres, 15 vacant) to allow for more density of housing, 657 units. Talk about how many units you think should be at the Town Center site, and what % should be priced below-market. How tall might these buildings be?
I’m still learning more about this project.
Residents welcome housing for their children, their aging parents and local workers. Would you support establishing those priorities? How? If not, why not?
We are continuing to grow as a city. The Town Center will help with this. I support smart educated growth.
The census estimates that 9% of Scotts Valley’s 4,479 housing units are vacant, same as the 9% in the county. Any idea why? Is this an issue the city should address?
I need to learn more about this.
Is the city’s requirement for 50/50 commercial and residential development making housing construction not feasible? Would you discuss changing this?
No response.
Can you talk about your housing situation? Homeowner or renter? How does that help you relate to your constituents?
I am a homeowner.
Describe your family situation. Married? Single? Children? Pets?
Married with two children, two cats and a dog.
Your favorite spot in Scotts Valley? How do you spend your free time?
Siltanen Park and Vine Hill School. Umpiring Little league and playing soccer.
How long have you lived in Scotts Valley? What brought you here?
Fifty-three years. My family moved to Scotts Valley in 1946.
What prompted you to run?
I have wanted to run for years. I feel that now is the time for me to serve the city I have grown up in. n
•••
Age: 74
Occupation: City Council member since 2008, retired police sergeant
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What are the top issues for the City of Scotts Valley and how would you solve them?
Scotts Valley city services have been challenged since the pandemic and City economic crisis.
Although we have made progress with staffing, many projects have fallen behind including street and park maintenance. The City is facing huge challenges to address the street pavement levels moving below acceptable and our parks need attention. Having served this community for so long, I have the history and experience to help address the various needs.
The state is pushing for more housing with the mandate in the Housing Element to plan for 1,220 new units from 2023 to 2031 but some residents don’t want more traffic and congestion. How do you balance conflicting expectations?
The City is facing several challenges as we continue to work to recover fiscally. The State has mandated an additional 1,220 homes be built in the City with the majority affordable during the next 8 years. There was no support from the State for infrastructure with the mandate. There will be a huge impact including on traffic, water, streets and public safety.
Scotts Valley only receives 6 1/2 % of property taxes, much less than other jurisdictions. The City budget depends heavily on sales tax and hotel tax. The State has also taken much control of housing development from local government so there is little the City can do to balance conflicting expectations.
The Housing Element calls for rezoning the Town Center site (58 acres, 15 vacant) to allow for more density of housing, 657 units. Talk about how many units you think should be at the Town Center site, and what % should be priced below-market. How tall might these buildings be?
For decades the City has worked to build the Town Center. There have been many obstacles along the way including the Great Recession. Another challenge had been that some of the property had been owned by the City of Santa Cruz, the former airport property. Soil contamination was discovered on the property and required extensive cleanup.
The City is finally in the final stages of purchasing the property from Santa Cruz with assistance of grant funding.
Several community engagement events are being provided to encourage community feedback directly with the Town Center development team. The three options for consideration all include retail, commercial, community gathering centers and a minimum of 300 homes with heights ranging from 4-5 stories.
Residents welcome housing for their children, their aging parents and local workers. Would you support establishing those priorities? How? If not, why not?
There is a need and desire for affordable housing for residents and employees, particularly teachers, police officers, firefighters and more.
The City offers programs to help eligible residents obtain or maintain safe and decent housing within the City limits. Programs include First Time Homebuyer/Silent Second Mortgage, Security Deposit, and Density Bonus. These programs are funded through the Redevelopment Agency housing funds. House Keys is an Affordable Housing Administrator who works alongside cities and builders for below market rate housing programs.
The City has adopted a system to make sure affordable housing is given a priority to residents living and working the City limits.
The census estimates that 9% of Scotts Valley’s 4,479 housing units are vacant, same as the 9% in the county. Any idea why? Is this an issue the city should address?
As far as the census estimate that 9% of Scotts Valley’s 4,479 housing units are vacant, that is hard to evaluate since often those vacancies are due to homes being for sale. I often hear complaints that housing is scarce.
Is the city’s requirement for 50/50 commercial and residential development making housing construction not feasible? Would you discuss changing this?
For years, the City maintained a 50/50 commercial and residential development requirement along Scotts Valley Drive. With the recent housing mandates, the city has relaxed the 50-50 requirement on Scotts Valley Drive.
Although retail is important to the City, there are some projects planned that will be 100% housing.
Can you talk about your housing situation? Homeowner or renter? How does that help you relate to your constituents?
Personally, I’ve lived in Scotts Valley for 45 years. I bought my current home in 1986 and at the time worried about being able to pay the mortgage. I’m thankful I bought when I did with housing prices having risen so much through the years.
My former in-laws sold their Scotts Valley home decades ago and were shocked at home prices when they chose to return a couple years ago. Family members moved out of State due to the cost of living in California.
We are blessed to live in one of the most beautiful areas in the world and it is extremely challenging to balance the need for affordable housing with current infrastructure and expectations of residents.
Describe your family situation. Married? Single? Children? Pets?
I am currently single after a lengthy marriage. I never had my own children but enjoy time with nieces, nephews and God kids.
I enjoy my two kitties and I’m “aunt” to a neighbor’s dog that I’ve walked daily for the past 6 years in the neighborhood and along beautiful Scotts Valley trails, Glenwood, Lodato and around Granite Creek.
Your favorite spot in Scotts Valley? How do you spend your free time?
Scotts Valley trails. In my free time I enjoy golf, bowling and live music at some of our local businesses.
How long have you lived in Scotts Valley? What brought you here?
I’ve served the City of Scotts Valley for the past 56 years. I started as the City Hall secretary also taking the minutes for City Council & Planning Commission meetings. I moved to the Scotts Valley Police Department continuing to take the minutes for City Council meetings.
I became the first Scotts Valley female police officer, later sergeant. I was named Officer of the Year 3 times and received State & National recognition for my work. I’m proud to have served with Scotts Valley Police Department for 40 years before being elected to City Council 16 years ago. I have been named Woman of the Year for my contributions to the Community. I have a proven record of experience, work ethics and commitment to the City.
While serving with City Council, including 3 terms as mayor, I’ve served with a variety of commissions including Santa Margarita Groundwater Agency, METRO, LAFCO, Senior Commissions, Criminal Justice Council, Traffic Safety, AMBAG and more. My experience and history have enabled me to be a strong advocate for Scotts Valley in a wide variety of areas including funding for various projects.
What prompted you to run?
I was encouraged to run for an additional term because of my experience, deep roots and love for Scotts Valley that provides a level of consistency as we face the many challenges ahead.
I’m excited for the opportunity to share my knowledge and experience with new council members while working together for the Community.
•••
Age: 24
Occupation: Student at UC Santa Cruz, environment/economics; transfer from Cabrillo College, summer intern with Scotts Valley City Manager’s Office
~~~
What are the top issues for the City of Scotts Valley and how would you solve them?
The top issue for the city is to manage its budget. At current rates the city will deplete its reserves in one to two years. If the current Business License Tax Modernization gets approved by voters in November, that will greatly help, but I think we will still need to find new ways to save or make more money.
To manage the budget in the past the city would not fill open positions or defer maintenance. The city is finally fully staffed and beginning to repair things.
To accomplish the priorities of the community ,it is extremely important to make sure our newly built teams have all the support they need. As time goes on, they will only get more efficient and be able to optimize current operations to save time and money. That will save the city a lot of money in the long term compared to outsourcing all our projects to consultants.
The fully staffed teams will also be able to apply for and receive more federal and state grants, and coordinate projects with more nonprofits who can also help to fill funding gaps.
The final option is to raise taxes, specifically utility and TOT (hotel taxes), which would have to be approved by 55% of voters.
The state is pushing for more housing with the mandate in the Housing Element to plan for 1,220 new units from 2023 to 2031 but some residents don’t want more traffic and congestion. How do you balance conflicting expectations?
Mt. Hermon Road is already one of the busiest streets in the county, but we can mitigate congestion. If we build safer active transportation infrastructure, residents will have more options to get wherever they want to go. That will take more people off the road, especially children and families.
Another priority would be to continuously optimize street light timings to make sure cars that are just passing through get through the city as fast as possible.
The town center project will also include additional roads, giving residents more options to bypass commuting traffic if they just want to meet at a café or go to Skypark.
The Housing Element calls for rezoning the Town Center site (58 acres, 15 vacant) to allow for more density of housing, 657 units. Talk about how many units you think should be at the Town Center site, and what % should be priced below-market. How tall might these buildings be?
I think the Town Center should include as much housing as possible without sacrificing a downtown and community-oriented space. If we want to limit traffic, we must build homes within biking and walking distance of where people want to go.
That includes grocery stores, restaurants, Skypark, the library, and the movie theater. I would not be against seeing apartment buildings in the Town Center, possibly up to 3-4 stories tall.
Residents welcome housing for their children, their aging parents and local workers. Would you support establishing those priorities? How? If not, why not?
Yes, by supporting as much housing of all types as possible, to the extent that our infrastructure and environment can support it.
The census estimates that 9% of Scotts Valley’s 4,479 housing units are vacant, same as the 9% in the county. Any idea why? Is this an issue the city should address?
The currently available housing stock may not be affordable for most people wanting to move to Scotts Valley.
Is the city’s requirement for 50/50 commercial and residential development making housing construction not feasible? Would you discuss changing this?
I think what makes housing construction a challenge is the cost. Developers want secure investments that are guaranteed to make a profit.
It can be difficult for cities to find developers to build housing, even if they’re giving away the land for free. It’s important to have a decent mix of housing and commercial for the long-term health of the city. I’m always willing to discuss things, but I think we need to focus on building in the empty areas we already have. I will support Scotts Valley to make it as simple as possible to make that happen.
Can you talk about your housing situation? Homeowner or renter? How does that help you relate to your constituents?
I live with my mom and stepdad in a two-bedroom condo in Hidden Oaks that we rent with the help of Section 8. Without that, I wouldn’t be able to live here and do fulltime school without taking out loans and having roommates anyway.
My living situation is very different than most Scotts Valley residents, but I think it’s a valuable experience to have on City Council if we are going to be building more low-income homes.
Describe your family situation. Married? Single? Children? Pets?
I live with my mom and stepdad, and our bunny princess moon angel, named by my little cousin. I have an amazing and supportive girlfriend and no children.
Your favorite spot in Scotts Valley? Where do you spend your free time?
My favorite spot in Scotts Valley is Skypark. In my free time I like to hike, read, watch tv and movies, and hang out with my friends and family.
How long have you lived in Scotts Valley? What brought you here?
Ten years, my mom moved us here to be closer to her business, and because she just liked the town.
What prompted you to run?
I have worked in Scotts Valley City Hall this summer and I have seen projects, visions for the future, and leadership that I think will be great for Scotts Valley.
I want to support the community and city staff to make those projects happen. Projects like the Town Center and safe bike lanes. I want to make Scotts Valley the best it can be for everyone who lives here, a place where everyone feels they belong.
I also want our city thinking about the future. I don’t want to go back to deferring maintenance so it’s someone else’s problem later. I also think my lived experience and education background will provide a useful new perspective to the City Council.
•••
Age: 45
Occupation: IT contractor and stay at home dad
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What are the top issues for the City of Scotts Valley and how would you solve them?
The number one issue right now is housing. Affordable and market-rate housing production has come to a standstill across California and Scotts Valley can do its part to be part of the solution.
We currently have onerous requirements that limit what type of housing can be built, and what percentage of developments need to be commercial.
I think we should allow the “missing middle” houses to be built that will give us attractive new homes that will bring in new tax revenues to the city which helps with our second problem, which is our tiny city budget.
We can’t raise taxes to solve every one of our problems and adding new homes to our city adds their tax revenues to the budget.
We also need to work with the county and state so we can keep a larger slice of the property taxes collected here in Scotts Valley. With these new revenues we can fund more road repairs, along with safe biking and walking infrastructure.
The state is pushing for more housing with the mandate in the Housing Element to plan for 1,220 new units from 2023 to 2031 but some residents don’t want more traffic and congestion. How do you balance conflicting expectations?
Scotts Valley Drive is wildly underutilized, there are vacant lots off this street that are prime candidates for dense development, adaptive reuse, upsizing, etc.
Putting new houses on this street along with a dedicated bike route connecting the schools so children can safely get themselves to and from school will offset new traffic on Mt Hermon Road, and it will reduce the overall traffic going to and from the schools during pickup and drop-off.
The Housing Element calls for rezoning the Town Center site (58 acres, 15 vacant) to allow for more density of housing, 657 units. Talk about how many units you think should be at the Town Center site, and what % should be priced below-market. How tall might these buildings be?
Currently Scotts Valley doesn’t allow for buildings to be built above 3 stories, and I think it’s time to consider raising this limit. By allowing more people to live in taller buildings we are preserving the natural beauty of our city.
Instead of building single family homes where our open space is, we can build a smaller number of attractive 4-story buildings to satisfy new housing requirements from the state and AMBAG.
I believe below-market-rate housing should not be grouped up and isolated into a single place. Distributing it among all new developments will allow for the social fabric of our city to span across limits that would be put in place if we put concentrated below-market-rate housing into a single building for the entire city.
I think 20% below-market-rate in new developments is a reasonable limit.
As for how many units should be built in the town center, I think we should build more if we can manage to find a development partner that can make the buildings look attractive.
The new generation of California residents are driving at lower rates and want to live a life where they can walk to visit friends, restaurants, go shopping and if possible not have to drive to their place of work.
The percentage of people who want to live car-free is going up and I think we should build to enable that.
Residents welcome housing for their children, their aging parents and local workers. Would you support establishing those priorities? How? If not, why not?
There is no legal mechanism to prioritize housing based on these criteria. We can offer subsidies to teachers, city workers, first responders, and we can limit those subsidies to those people for homes inside the City of Scotts Valley, but currently we live in a capitalist society and the free market decides who is going to buy unsubsidized market rate housing.
Every person who buys a house in our town becomes a member of our community, and we should open our arms to those interested in investing themselves and in turn enriching the place we call home.
The census estimates that 9% of Scotts Valley’s 4,479 housing units are vacant, same as the 9% in the county. Any idea why? Is this an issue the city should address?
Corporate home buyers are holding vacant homes until interest rates go down so people can afford to make monthly payments on the high-priced homes.
Taxing vacant properties is an interesting idea that could encourage those holding properties waiting for ideal selling conditions to sell those vacant homes.
Getting rental information for taxation purposes from VRBO and Airbnb and possibly levying fines against those that have not paid hotel taxes for their short-term rentals may also encourage sales of vacant properties.
Is the city’s requirement for 50/50 commercial and residential development making housing construction not feasible? Would you discuss changing this?
Given the vacancy rates on existing commercial properties, I think it is worth reevaluating this requirement.
Can you talk about your housing situation? Homeowner or renter? How does that help you relate to your constituents?
My wife and I bought a home in Scotts Valley 5 years ago and we decided to have a child.
We heard great things about the schools, and we loved the idea of living in the mountains next to the redwoods with the beach a few short minutes away. We are very familiar with the effort it takes to get into a home in Scotts Valley.
The type of home available in Scotts Valley misses the mark for 20- to 40-year-olds which are currently missing from our demographics.
Describe your family situation. Married? Single? Children? Pets?
I live in Scotts Valley with my wife Kacey, our four-and-a-half-year-old son Mack, and our cat Purriosa.
There are also a couple of deer that live in our yard that eat our tomatoes, they came with the house.
Your favorite spot in Scotts Valley? How do you spend your free time?
I love talking to folks at Skypark while my son runs around the play structure.
How long have you lived in Scotts Valley? What brought you here?
When I was in Jr high my church went to Mt. Hermon Conference center, when a friend of mine from Soquel met me for lunch in Scotts Valley while my wife and I were looking to start a family, Scotts Valley became our home 5 years ago.
What prompted you to run?
I want to do my part.
•••
Age: 37
Occupation: Registered nurse at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, caring for children with heart disease
~~~
What are the top issues for the City of Scotts Valley and how would you solve them?
Scotts Valley is in an exciting era of growth and development and with those changes come the great challenge of expanding infrastructure and services.
From my perspective, managing strategic growth and development, ensuring adequate housing construction, and working to ensure community programs for young families are some of the top issues facing our city. In an effort to solve these important issues, I intend to research all proposed solutions and collaborate with my leadership team to execute a growth plan that both serves the needs of the community while maintaining our city’s unique mountain charm.
The state is pushing for more housing with the mandate in the Housing Element to plan for 1,220 new units from 2023 to 2031 but some residents don’t want more traffic and congestion. How do you balance conflicting expectations?
Presently, California is facing an unprecedented housing crisis and that is reflected in the Housing Element’s mandate to plan for 1,220 new units from 2023 to 2031. Unfortunately, growth and development prompts increased traffic and congestion. However, through strategic planning and development these undesired consequences can be offset to some degree.
My approach to balancing conflicting expectations is to provide community members with ample opportunity to raise their questions and concerns to city leadership as well as provide them with a space to learn more about the issues at hand. Council meetings are open to the public and serve as an excellent forum for citizens to be heard; I would encourage any interested party to attend.
The Housing Element calls for rezoning the Town Center site (58 acres, 15 vacant) to allow for more density of housing, 657 units. Talk about how many units you think should be at the Town Center site, and what % should be priced below-market. How tall might these buildings be?
When considering the number (and height) of housing units in the Town Center site my focus turns to a) what is the state of our infrastructure, and can it support a large housing development? b) what safety concerns would arise from such a development and is our city equipped to offset those threats?
I am actively seeking answers to these questions and would work closely with the City Manager and Planning Department to reach the best possible outcome for Scotts Valley.
Residents welcome housing for their children, their aging parents and local workers. Would you support establishing those priorities? How? If not, why not?
I believe that affordable housing should be a top priority because safety and stability are the pillars of a healthy, thriving community.
The census estimates that 9% of Scotts Valley’s 4,479 housing units are vacant, same as the 9% in the county. Any idea why? Is this an issue the city should address?
The first step to addressing the issue is to uncover why the units are vacant. The possibilities range from second homes to building and permitting delays.
Once these questions had been answered, I would begin to actively seek solutions.
Is the city’s requirement for 50/50 commercial and residential development making housing construction not feasible? Would you discuss changing this?
As of April 2024, the Housing Element has been updated and the 50/50 requirement is no longer active.
If elected, I will work with other local officials to balance State requirements with local needs and priorities.
Can you talk about your housing situation? Homeowner or renter? How does that help you relate to your constituents?
I have personally experienced living in Scotts Valley as both a renter and a homeowner and I am familiar with the panic and anxiety that surface when you are unable to find a rental within your family’s budget.
Likewise, I understand what it feels like to be frustrated with the rising cost of property and left to wonder if you will ever be able to afford a home of your own.
Describe your family situation. Married? Single? Children? Pets?
I have been married to my husband Eric since 2011 and together we have two children and a lovable Bernese Mountain Dog named Maisy.
Your favorite spot in Scotts Valley? How do you spend your free time?
My favorite spot in Scotts Valley has to be the Glenwood Preserve. I spend hours running there each week.
I love to spend my free time outside trail running and hiking. When I am moved indoors, you can find me reading or writing.
How long have you lived in Scotts Valley? What brought you here?
I have lived in Scotts Valley since 2016 and in the Santa Cruz Mountains since 2011. My in-laws were longtime residents of Santa Cruz County and encouraged my husband and me to move to the mountains.
He loves to surf and I am an avid trail runner and nature lover and we fell in love.
What prompted you to run?
As a mother of two young children, I think that it is very important for young families to have strong representation in our local government and play a role in the development of our community.
Working to ensure the city has a strong vision for the future is important to me as a mother, working professional, and resident of this charming mountain community.
•••
Age: 24
Occupation: Startup founder
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What are the top issues for the City of Scotts Valley, and how would you solve them?
I aim to focus on civic engagement, diversity, equity and inclusion, and climate initiatives.
This includes investing more into library programs, childcare initiatives, and parks and recreation. I also plan to address menstrual inequality by providing access to menstrual products in schools, improving the beautification and modernization of local parks, and work on establishing a robust sustainability and climate action plan to tackle the harmful impacts of climate change on our community.
The state is pushing for more housing with the mandate in the Housing Element to plan for 1,220 new units from 2023 to 2031 but some residents don’t want more traffic and congestion.
How do you balance conflicting expectations?
While some residents may be opposed to an increase in traffic, our local businesses are in dire need of more traffic. Expansion can be concerning when we’ve always been a small town. Ensuring our local businesses thrive supports the type of community I hope to foster. Scotts Valley residents may have conflicting opinions about the increase in traffic, however the likely boost this would garner in our community seems of high value.
The Housing Element calls for rezoning the Town Center site (58 acres, 15 vacant) to allow for more density of housing, 657 units. Talk about how many units you think should be at the Town Center site, and what % should be priced below-market. How tall might these buildings be?
I am not accustomed to calculating percentages and potential building heights as I do not have a background in architecture or construction required for the site’s design and development. However, I am prepared to approach this from a political standpoint and would be open to considering increased building allowances, provided that I am granted the opportunity to visit the job site and collaborate with relevant experts who are informed on the infrastructure protocol and requirements. Per my understanding, each residential floor should be about 12 feet high, while the mixed-use space below should be about 16 feet high. I haven’t seen any buildings in Scotts Valley taller than 40 to 50 feet.
Residents welcome housing for their children, their aging parents and local workers. Would you support establishing those priorities? How? If not, why not?
I firmly believe that access to suitable housing is a fundamental human right that should be guaranteed to every individual, regardless of socio-economic status. Affordable housing should be within reach for all members of society, including families, children, elderly parents, and local workers. If I have the honor of being elected, my foremost commitment would be to actively champion and facilitate the creation of policies that prioritize and support the provision of affordable housing for all by working to develop, operate, and manage low- and moderate-income housing projects.
The census estimates that 9% of Scotts Valley’s 4,479 housing units are vacant, same as the 9% in the county. Any idea why? Is this an issue the city should address?
I believe 9% of vacant housing units consist of luxury condominiums that are unaffordable for many people due to the prevailing economic conditions. Newly constructed condominiums on SV Drive are presently available for purchase.
Despite their prime location within walking distance of Skypark, close to numerous shopping amenities, and conveniently near major highways, these properties remain on the market.
Is the city’s requirement for 50-50 commercial and residential development making housing construction not feasible? Would you discuss changing this?
Achieving a 50-50 % ratio for equal housing opportunities is an admirable objective. However, the practical financial implications present a stark contrast. This endeavor constitutes a substantial undertaking, necessitating meticulous planning and robust financial resources.
Can you talk about your housing situation? Homeowner or renter? How does that help you relate to your constituents?
As a recent college graduate, I have moved back in with my parents due to the high cost of living in Scotts Valley. This situation is not uncommon among my peers. Despite them holding jobs, the cost of living and rent is unsustainable.
My firsthand experience has led me to champion the cause of affordable housing in recognition of the challenges associated because I know firsthand how difficult it can be to find. As a city council candidate, I’d be able to relate to young families because the prospect of starting a family in Scotts Valley in this economy is daunting, but it is a dream of mine. I look forward to supporting them with not only housing solutions but also child care.
Describe your family situation. Married? Single? Children? Pets?
I am currently single. While I hope to one day settle down and achieve the American dream, my current priority is to run for public office, enact change, create policy, and establish laws.
My single status should not in any way affect my ability to run for office. I see it as an advantage, as I am able to prioritize my goals effectively. I have two pets, both rescues: my campaign mascot, a lovable Cavapom, a mix of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Pomeranian named Charlotte, and a calico cat named Ruthie.
Your favorite spot in Scotts Valley? How do you spend your free time?
My favorite spot in Scotts Valley is Cruise Cafe. With its cozy, warm and welcoming ambiance, it serves as the perfect sanctuary for indulging in a good book, engaging in heartfelt conversations, and savoring a cup of tea.
Each Saturday, I immerse myself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Scotts Valley farmer’s market while also nurturing my garden and attending to my cherished flock of chickens.
What do you do for a living?
As a director at Women’s Advocacy Initiative, I work to eliminate barriers for survivors of gender-based violence. I’m also the founder and CEO of Safe Squad Mobile App, a free SOS app available in 165 countries
How long have you lived in Scotts Valley? What brought you here?
I was born and raised in Scotts Valley, and I am proud to be a native of the town. Although I left town to pursue my studies in New York, my love for Scotts Valley always held a special place in my heart. Upon completing my degree in three years, I decided to return to my hometown.
What prompted you to run?
I aim to represent a new generation of leadership and diversity in our local government. Having been actively engaged in city affairs and local politics since the age of 10, this has always been a part of my plan. In Mayor Johnson’s words, “It’s time to pass the baton to other candidates who wish to serve.”
•••
Age: 60
Occupation: Retired deputy police chief & public safety consultant
~~~
What are the top issues for the City of Scotts Valley and how would you solve them?
The top issues for our city are public safety; housing and growth; schools; parks; and business. All these issues are interconnected, and each affects the others. In addressing these issues, I will safeguard our sense of community and the future of Scotts Valley.
Public Safety — I would glean from my 30 years of experience as a police officer to support a safe community with low crime rates and a responsive police department. I would work to improve traffic safety to ensure pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers are safe while sharing our roadways. I would work alongside law enforcement to help our city adapt to the growing use of e-bikes. Lastly, a high degree of wildfire preparedness is essential. I would advocate for the Fire District to ensure they get the needed resources to prevent and prepare for fire emergencies.
Housing and Growth — I will use my experience from both the General Plan Advisory Committee and collaborating with city officials when Santa Cruz experienced similar expansion to help the city navigate the challenges of state-mandated housing growth.
Schools — I will advocate for strong school partnerships and the resources they need to inspire the next generation of leaders.
Parks — Parks are not a luxury, but rather a necessity. I will work to preserve and enhance our local parks as important community assets.
Businesses — I want to attract new businesses while ensuring we continue to support existing small businesses. Our small businesses work hard to provide excellent service and support our local causes.
The state is pushing for more housing with the mandate in the Housing Element to plan for 1,220 new units from 2023 to 2031 but some residents don’t want more traffic and congestion. How do you balance conflicting expectations?
I share the same concerns as many in the community. Additionally, I have questions about water supply, electrical grid capacity, reduced views, overburdening our schools, and reduced availability of vital services like access to medical care.
I volunteered for the Scotts Valley General Plan Advisory Committee where I worked with department heads and Council members to craft thoughtful designs that preserved the character of Scotts Valley as we faced inevitable growth. My priority as a Council member will be to safeguard the future of Scotts Valley. I will ensure we make smart decisions around housing that do not erode the personality and charm of our town.
The Housing Element calls for rezoning the Town Center site (58 acres, 15 vacant) to allow for more density of housing, 657 units. Talk about how many units you think should be at the Town Center site, and what % should be priced below-market. How tall might these buildings be?
The current Housing Element calls for 803 of the 1,220 planned housing units to be “very low” to “moderate” income level homes. Ideally, those percentages should be relatively consistent throughout all the upcoming projects so that one or two projects don’t unfairly bear the responsibility.
I am concerned with building heights in the proposal and as a Council member would do my best to preserve the scenic beauty of our city. No one moves to Scotts Valley to look at the side of a building. Additionally, assuming 2 cars per unit, the current plan would add 1,314 cars. It is imperative that the final plan includes adequate parking for residents and their guests to avoid impacting surrounding neighborhoods.
Residents welcome housing for their children, their aging parents and local workers. Would you support establishing those priorities? How? If not, why not?
I support tiered housing levels in the community to allow people to get started, upsize, or downsize while remaining in the community. This includes:
- Starter homes for first-time buyers
- Family homes for expanding needs
- Down-sizing homes to simplify living.
This approach places a priority on family and creates bonds that make our community stronger. Strong families make strong communities.
The census estimates that 9% of Scotts Valley’s 4,479 housing units are vacant, same as the 9% in the county. Any idea why? Is this an issue the city should address?
I sense that the number is a bit high. This would equate to 403 vacant homes in the city. I don’t see that level of vacancy.
That said, I believe these counts include short-term rentals or vacation second homes. While short-term rentals have a role, the city could explore permitting these properties to prevent over-expansion.
Is the city’s requirement for 50/50 commercial and residential development making housing construction not feasible? Would you discuss changing this?
I support the City Council’s conclusion that this was a roadblock to creating the necessary housing and their decision to approve lifting the 50/50 requirement for Scotts Valley Drive.
Can you talk about your housing situation? Homeowner or renter? How does that help you relate to your constituents?
I am a homeowner with 3 adult kids at the stage in life where they are looking to buy a home. I understand the frustrations of trying to get into the market. I would love for my kids to be able to purchase a home where they grew up.
I also understand the need to ensure homeowners don’t lose money on their investment in a home. Many depend on that increased value to fund critical expenses in their lives.
Describe your family situation. Married? Single? Children? Pets?
I am married to my incredible wife Sharon of 39 years. We have 3 adult children who are all successful professionals. I am grateful for the great teachers and coaches in our community who helped shape them and set them on a path to success.
Your favorite spot in Scotts Valley? How do you spend your free time?
My favorite spot in Scotts Valley is my front deck. I love being connected to my neighbors and enjoying our amazing views of the mountains and trees.
In my free time, I love taking dance lessons with my wife and hiking on the local trails.
How long have you lived in Scotts Valley? What brought you here?
I have lived in Scotts Valley since 2008 and have worked in the area since 1986.
The qualities that brought us to Scotts Valley are the city’s overall safety, the close-knit community, the beautiful mountains and trees, and the schools. Our family thrived here in Scotts Valley among these elements.
What prompted you to run?
I have dedicated my life to public service. Scotts Valley is facing big decisions in the coming years that could fundamentally change our city.
I bring real-world experience and a track record of successful outcomes to guide the city through our upcoming challenges. I want to help safeguard the future of Scotts Valley as we adapt and grow.