News & Views
Vote Skrel, Simmons and Rajan for Walnut Creek Council
Contra Costa Times, October 22, 2008
IN WALNUT CREEK, there are four candidates vying for the three seats available with only one incumbent running. While any of the candidates likely would serve the city well, it is clear that incumbent Gary Skrel as well as Bob Simmons and Kish Rajan have the experience necessary to serve effectively on the City Council.
There is no question that Skrel will be an effective council member because he has been so for the last eight years. We have not necessarily agreed with Skrel on everything, but we have recognized him as a reasoned, thoughtful voice on the council. He has been particularly thoughtful when it comes to the city's finances. While Walnut Creek in recent years has been flush with cash because of its sales tax revenues, Skrel has correctly pointed out that cities that live by the sales tax in good times can be hurt by lack of sales tax revenue in bad times, and it is pretty clear that the bad financial times are rapidly approaching.
There is absolutely no reason that Walnut Creek voters should not return him for another term. His experience and fiscal knowledge will be critical to navigate the uncertain waters that lie ahead.
Simmons also has earned a shot at the council with his long tenure and service on the Parks and Open Space Committee as well as a history of about 25 years of civic involvement. He is bright, articulate and well-prepared for service on the Walnut Creek council.
Rajan is a home-grown product and has served as chairman of the city's parking and transportation committee. While we have some issues with proposals his committee has brought forth, especially increasing parking meter hours, we also realize that such public service is a valuable experience for a council member. Let's face it, parking in Walnut Creek is always a difficult and even emotional subject.
Sol Henik is the fourth candidate. He is a high school teacher who ran for the council two years ago and says he is running this time because he cares about the community. We do not doubt that at all, but he has not held any positions in city government and simply doesn't yet seem as prepared as the others to handle the rigors or work on the City Council. He seems earnest and sincere, so we would urge him to obtain some experience in city government and then run for the council in the future.
The Times recommends Walnut Creek voters select Gary Skrel, Bob Simmons and Kish Rajan for City Council.
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Vote for Simmons for Walnut Creek council
Contra Costa Times, October 14, 2008
Bob Simmons would make an excellent Walnut Creek councilman. With 38 years of local government service, in which 15 1/2 years was with the City of Walnut Creek, I believe I am qualified to make such a statement. In my career I worked with over 40 council members in four different cities. Bob Simmons ranks in the top of these elected officials with respect to knowledge of economic development, neighborhood needs, open space, smart land use planning and fiscal control.
I have known Bob Simmons for the past five years and have had many conversations with him regarding city issues. He is truly committed to keeping Walnut Creek a wonderful community in which to raise families and to support and grow businesses.
Please join me in electing Bob Simmons to the Walnut Creek City Council.
—Kevin Roberts, Walnut Creek
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Elect Simmons
Contra Costa Times, October 14, 2008
I have served with Bob Simmons on our city's Parks, Recreation and Open Space Commission and the Walnut Creek Planning Commission, which I currently chair.
Simmons is consistently one of our best prepared commissioners and demonstrates not only a balanced view of the big picture but a command of the little details that often make big differences. Moreover, he has repeatedly demonstrated a commitment to protection of Walnut Creek's public open space and promotion of environmentally sensitive building practices.
Simmons is approachable, a good listener, willing to consider all sides of an issue and genuinely cares about the people of our community. I am pleased to support him for Walnut Creek City Council.
—Neil Gerstner, Walnut Creek
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Simmons for City Council
Walnut Creek Journal, October 8, 2008
Bob Simmons would make an excellent City of Walnut Creek councilman. With 38 years of local government service, 15 1/2 years of which was with the City of Walnut Creek, I believe I am qualified to make such a statement. In my career I worked with more than 40 council members in four different cities. Bob Simmons ranks in the top of these elected officials with respect to knowledge of economic development, neighborhood needs, open space, smart land use planning and fiscal control.
I have known Bob Simmons for the past five years and have had many conversations with him regarding city issues. He is truly committed to keeping Walnut Creek a wonderful community in which to raise families and to support and grow businesses.
Please join me in electing Bob Simmons to the Walnut Creek City Council.
—Kevin Roberts, Walnut Creek,
Former Walnut Creek deputy city manager
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Simmons the right man
Walnut Creek Journal, October 8, 2008
If you don't know Bob Simmons, he has volunteered a significant amount of time for the past eight years, being a WC Parks, Recreation and Open Space Commissioner and a Planning Commissioner. I served with Bob on the PROS Commission.
Bob Simmons and I shared a passion for the city beyond our personal interests. His interest was reincarnating Mount Diablo Unified School District's abandoned Castle Rock Park, and my interest was assuring that the city didn't abandon its swimming heritage at Heather Farm Park. We both put 110 percent into the fact gathering, listening to residents and teaming up with city staff to make every decision a best possible decision for Walnut Creek's residents.
As a recently retired Forest Service lawyer and negotiator, Bob Simmons will have the time that's required, and will be an effective leader on Walnut Creek's City Council. He will continue the great work we did together on the PROS Commission issues — the skate park, the dog park, Civic and Heather Farm master plans and the city's new General Plan.
I'm supporting Bob for City Council
—Ken Halbrecht, Walnut Creek
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Simmons works hard, listens
Walnut Creek Journal, October 8, 2008
I worked with Bob Simmons for four years on the Walnut Creek Park, Recreation and Open Space Commission. As a commissioner, Bob listened to the public, approached decisions with an open mind and cooperated with other commissioners. I also worked with Bob on the steering committee for revising Walnut Creek's General Plan where he showed a concern for Walnut Creek's future and a knowledge of issues that are important to our city.
Bob has been a board member of the Walnut Creek Open Space Foundation for six years. He has worked diligently on other people's habitat restoration projects and has led his own projects. He has recruited new volunteers and board members. As board president, Bob led in starting a land acquisition fund, in working with Save Mount Diablo and other organizations and in opposing locating a new communication tower in Walnut Creek's open space. I know that Bob Simmons has the vision, knowledge, willingness to work and ability to lead that we need on the Walnut Creek City Council.
—Bill Hunt, Walnut Creek
Open Space Foundation member
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Elect Simmons
Contra Costa Times, October 3, 2008
When Walnut Creek says goodbye to City Council stalwarts Gwen Regalia and Charles Abrams, the city would be well served to tap home-grown talent to match the departing experience for those home-grown folks who are vacating their seats. Bob Simmons is the right man for a seat at that dais.
As an active participant in Walnut Creek's parks and open space for three decades, I've come to appreciate Simmons as a thorough and thoughtful citizen who brought new vigor to the Walnut Creek Open Space Foundation when he joined its board six years ago.
As president of that organization, known for its well-managed volunteer habitat restoration programs, Simmons helped initiate a land-acquisition fund and fostered closer cooperation between WCOSF and Save Mount Diablo. His participation on Walnut Creek's Planning and PROS commissions, has further allowed him to see the city from the inside out, not a common perspective for most civic volunteers.
Walnut Creek voters should look into Bob's accomplishments at his Web site (http://www.simmons4walnutcreek.org/) and remember those qualities at the ballot box.
—Jamie Jobb, Martinez
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Vote for Simmons
Contra Costa Times, October 3, 2008
The expression "All politics are local" is one we all know and value. In Walnut Creek we are fortunate to have Bob Simmons running for City Council.
I have worked with Simmons on the Walnut Creek Open Space Foundation. With his leadership as president, the Walnut Creek Open Space Foundation is becoming more involved in community events, going green and more while still maintaining and enhancing the existing programs.
Simmons' tenure on the Parks Recreation and Open Space and the Planning Commissions has given him a bird's eye view of how our city government works and the goals our community has for our future.
He is a leader who cares about our future and will provide a steady hand in the decision making process that is so critical to our continued success as a great community.
—Jake Bronson, Walnut Creek
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Walnut Creek council candidates square off in debate
by Elisabeth Nardi, Contra Costa Times, October 3, 2008
WALNUT CREEK — Pressing city issues ranging from future belt-tightening to downtown parking were discussed at a Friday forum by the four Walnut Creek City Council candidates.
The candidates squared off while taping a 30-minute debate sponsored by the Contra Costa Times and others, hosted by Times political columnist Lisa Vorderbruegen. The candidates are vying for three open council seats in November's election.
Incumbent Gary Skrel, who has served eight years on the council, said tough choices are ahead for the city, which faces declining sales tax revenues and lackluster property tax revenues. Skrel didn't specify future budget cuts, but that they "will be across the board."
Challenger Sol Henik, who ran for council unsuccessfully two years ago, said he has always been against spending so much on the now-under-construction library and advocated for the project to be scaled down.
Candidate Kish Rajan touted his experience in making tough budget choices, and candidate Bob Simmons said city staff has started an excellent process for budget restructuring that will help the council make the tough decisions.
All candidates agreed that in-lieu parking fees from developers are OK. But not all agreed on a controversial proposal to extend enforcement hours at downtown parking meters.
"There is already a perception that parking is tight in Walnut Creek," Henik said. "This might lead to others leaving downtown Walnut Creek."
Rajan, chair of the Transportation Commission who voted to recommend extending the hours, said he did so as part of a package to make at least one parking garage free on Sundays. There is abundant unused parking downtown, he said, and additional enforcement hours would hopefully drive people to the garages.
Simmons agreed, saying he hopes the additional hours will free up on-street spaces in front of downtown's small businesses. Skrel said the impetus for the extended hours did not come from the city wanting to get more money, but from the business community intending to free up parking.
The parking discussion didn't end there. Candidates discussed a possible parking reduction at Broadway Plaza for the proposed new Neiman Marcus. Simmons, who approved the parking plan two weeks ago as a member of the Planning Commission, said the plan has provisions to monitor its success. Skrel, who will vote on this issue next week, said the plan to use valet parking there during peak shopping hours is a viable option.
Henik said he welcomes a planned test period with the valet, but wants other options.
Rajan said valet is a good tool to use to manage parking, though parking throughout downtown needs to be examined.
"I share enthusiasm for Neiman Marcus coming," he said. "I am glad it looks like there will be a test of this valet (system)."
Skrel, Rajan and Simmons touted their city government experience and connections. Mayor Gwen Regalia, who with Councilman Charlie Abrams is stepping down from the council, has endorsed each of them. Henik said it's a time for change.
As for reaching out to residents, Simmons said the City Council should go to them.
"One of the things we can do "... is for individual members of the City Council to have town meetings," he said.
Henik, a schoolteacher, said he has been going out to the neighborhoods and talking to residents. He suggested the city work with neighborhood leaders who could act as liaisons to the city.
Rajan said he, too, has been meeting with residents, and that listening to them is his first priority.
Skrel said he has always reached out to the community. The city is at a crossroads, and he said he has the proven leadership and experience.
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Walnut Creek City Council race comes to Rossmoor with candidates' forum
By Cathy Tallyn Staff writer, Rossmoor News, October 1, 2008
The four Walnut Creek Council candidates weighed in on the issues that affect Rossmoor residents and the rest of the city during a Rossmoor forum last Tuesday afternoon.
Candidates talked about the downtown, in particular traffic, parking and Neiman Marcus, which is proposed to come to Broadway Plaza; condominiums planned next to the Contra Costa Jewish Community Center; the library that is under construction downtown; and the community's livability, among other things.
The candidates cited a national magazine that singled out Walnut Creek as a top-10 city to live in during retirement and attributed that in large part to Rossmoor.
One candidate suggested there be a liaison with Rossmoor with regular meetings. Another proposed a shuttle service during the holidays between Rossmoor and the downtown.
The 1- hour program, sponsored by the Community Club, drew about 60 residents and will air on Channel 28 beginning Thursday, Oct. 2 (check the TV guide for days and times).
Questions for the candidates were preselected; however, residents were able to talk informally with the candidates before and after the formal session.
Nearly one-fifth - 17 percent - of all Walnut Creek voters live in Rossmoor.
The candidates for the three council positions are incumbent Gary Skrel, a civil engineer and business owner; Sol Henik, a high school teacher; Kish Rajan, involved in mobile technology; and Bob Simmons, a retired federal employee. Council members Charlie Abrams and Gwen Regalia decided not to run for re-election.
There was much discussion of the downtown, its traffic, perceived parking problems, popularity and the addition of Neiman Marcus.
Vibrant downtown
Skrel said, “Our downtown is very vibrant,” adding that people want restaurants, shops and community facilities downtown.
“We have the most prestigious retailers and they want to come to Walnut Creek,” he said, noting Neiman Marcus.
Kish said Broadway Plaza is an essential part of the downtown and he welcomes Neiman Marcus.
Henik said he may never shop at Neiman Marcus, but he, too, welcomes it.
Simmons said, “We want to have an exciting and interesting downtown Š with places for people to go.” He said, “Neiman Marcus brings to Walnut Creek the opportunity to remain the premier retail center.”
Downtown traffic
The candidates were, however, concerned about downtown traffic and parking problems that result in part from downtown being a popular destination.
“There is a public perception that there is no downtown parking Š but there is,” said Henik, who lives near the downtown. The parking just might not be as convenient as people would like, he said.
There are thousands of parking spaces downtown, many that go unused even during busy times, said Rajan. “We need to make it simpler for people to park downtown Š so we don't have people circling the downtown for a spot,” he said. “I don't have an easy solution. It can't be solved overnight.”
Skrel said he was concerned about traffic downtown as well as traffic along Ygnacio Valley Road and Treat Boulevard. He called for cooperation among communities. “It's a regional solution as much as a Walnut Creek solution,” he said. Skrel also noted that there is a free shuttle bus downtown.
Simmons said more traffic might be diverted onto freeways and also noted the free downtown bus service. He also suggested that there be a shuttle service between Rossmoor and downtown during the holidays.
JCC condo proposal
Concerning the condominium project proposed next to the Jewish Community Center (JCC) on Tice Valley Boulevard, candidates said the community center was a good neighbor and should be able to build some condos. (Proceeds from the sales will help pay for construction of a new community center.)
Skrel said the condos would be right for empty nesters, perhaps some from Rossmoor. He said he understands the JCC will come back to the city with a downsized plan.
Henik said he will meet this week with the developer. He said, “We definitely need housing.” However, he said traffic and other impacts need to be studied.
Rajan said he has already met with the developer, who is willing to scale back the project. He also has plans to meet with neighbors. “I really want to do all my homework.”
Simmons said in looking at the condo project that density, traffic and suitability with Walnut Creek be considered.
New library
The candidates were also asked about the new downtown library currently under construction and whether voters should be asked to extend Measure Q, which expires in 2010 and raises money to help operate the city's two libraries.
Skrel said passage of a measure to help pay for library operations is “a no brainer.” He said it would be “sinful” if the library couldn't be open for more hours than the county can afford.
Simmons said the library is a core of the downtown and he supports a measure that would help fund it.
Henik said he didn't initially support spending $42 million on a new library. However, he said, “It's a done deal.” And, he will take “a conservative fiscal approach on the library.”
Rajan said, “I'm very excited about the library. It's going to be a tremendous asset to the city. Folks like me and my kids benefit from it. I'm enthused to support it.”
City budget
The candidates were also asked about the city's fiscal health.
Simons said the city's budget should cover what it takes to maintain a quality community. He also said residents are fortunate they live in a city that practices conservative fiscal management and he will continue that.
Henik said he believes in a conservative fiscal approach.
Rajan said, “We need to tighten the belt. Š There are some tough decisions (that need to be made.)”
Skrel said, residents expect good services and good programs and that revenue from such things as the sales tax makes that possible.
Qualifications
Each candidate mentioned how he stood out.
“Experience is key to participation in government, especially this year in Walnut Creek. Two council members are not running for re-election,” said Skrel.
“I offer a new perspective, an open ear and new voice,” said Henik.
Bob Simmons said, “I have the endorsement of over 300 people. What that means is they have confidence in my ability to make the right decisions for Walnut Creek.”
Rajan said he has a vision for Walnut Creek and will make tough choices. “I love WC.”
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Likes Simmons for council
Contra Costa Times, October 1, 2008
Bob Simmons is well-prepared for a seat on the Walnut Creek City Council. He is familiar with the nuts and bolts of city government, planning and zoning issues, finance and city services. Bob has long been involved in community affairs as a neighbor, volunteer and activist. In meetings around town Bob has sought ideas and suggestions from residents on a wide variety of issues: traffic, taxes, schools, open space and resident participation in civic affairs. He brings an open mind as well as a strong background in city matters to his campaign. Bob Simmons is eminently well-qualified for a City Council seat.
—Rich Ravitz, Walnut Creek
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Chamber board endorses council candidates
Walnut Creek Journal, September 25, 2008
The Board of Directors of the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce unanimously endorsed City Council Candidates: Kish Rajan, Bob Simmons & Gary Skrel at their recent board meeting. This action followed a large public forum featuring each of the candidates responding to questions posed by the Chamber leadership and general members of the business community.
"Walnut Creek is very fortunate to have three highly qualified and experienced community leaders as candidates for City Council," said Sanjiv Bhandari, Chairman of the Board of the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce.
Considering the challenges facing the community during these tough economic times it is more important than ever that elected officials be tested and experienced. Each of these candidates has demonstrated their leadership and judgment in the public arena. Electing these three outstanding individuals to the City Council will help keep Walnut Creek moving in the right direction.
—Jay Hoyer, Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce
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Simmons ready for City Council
Walnut Creek Journal, September 25, 2008
I have worked with Bob Simmons for six years on the Walnut Creek Open Space Foundation and observed his enthusiasm for protection of our heritage. Our open spaces were preserved by citizens with the foresight to do what needs to be done. Bob's energy and experience continue this legacy.
After 20 years as a volunteer, including nine years on city commissions, Bob is ready to listen to public input and use his balanced judgment on City Council to keep Walnut Creek the special place it is.
Please check Bob's credentials at www.simmons4walnutcreek.org and cast one of your three City Council votes for Bob Simmons on Nov. 4.
—Bob Brittain, Walnut Creek
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Walnut Creek's Regalia to step down after 21 years
Contra Costa Times, August 8, 2008
Walnut Creek Mayor Gwen Regalia said late Friday she would not seek re-election to the City Council, thus stepping down after serving 21 years, including five stints as mayor.
Regalia is endorsing Transportation Commission Chairman Kish Rajan and incumbent Gary Skrel, who filed election papers Friday, as well as Planning Commissioner Bob Simmons, who filed his papers last week.
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