Why Mike is Running
Living in our community Mike has witnessed first hand the issues that are impacting it and feels with his background he could play an effective role in addressing them. Some of these issues include:
01
Homelessness
The City, pursuant to a Federal Court Order, must provide a certain level of housing for the homeless. This needs to be done efficiently and economically. Presently the City is addressing the problem through conversion of a Motel 6 at a cost of over $100,000 per room of State and Federal dollars. Is this the best use of these funds and is it being spent properly?
02
Petty & Serious Crime
It is imperative that citizens feel safe in our community and to achieve that we must have adequate staffing and give clear direction to our law enforcement personnel that all crime in the City is treated seriously. A "broken windows" approach to policing.
03
Smart Development
We want Costa Mesa to grow and prosper but it needs to do so with development projects that enhance the quality of life for all the residents. 1000 unit apartment complexes that create no “pride of ownership”, overburden already strained public services, and generate no long-term increase in revenues are not the answer. Mike will not be a rubber stamp on development projects that come before the Council.
04
Cannabis
The community is rightfully concerned that Costa Mesa is gaining a reputation as a “cannabis destination” city. The proliferation of retail stores must be closely monitored and regulated, balancing property owners rights with the community’s desire to be a family oriented community which is not overrun by cannabis and liquor stores.
05
Fiscal Responsibility
On May 10, 2024 Governor Newsome released proposed revisions to the 2024-2025 State Budget in an attempt to address the States recent budget deficit. His plan will reduce the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 budgets by $27.6 billion and $28.4 billion, respectively. This will necessarily mean that State Funds flowing to the City will be reduced which will require the City to adjust its budget. Hard choices and a plan to maintain the quality and levels of essential services will need to be made.