Mayor Jennifer Hosterman

Health Advisory: Wildfires

2008-06-27T23:08:00.000-07:00

As you are aware, the many wildfires in California and the Bay Area are having a significant affect on the air quality in the Tri-Valley. The Bay Area Air Quality Management District has issued a health advisory warning that the air quality in the East Bay is at an unhealthy level today and throughout the weekend. (http://www.sparetheair.org).

Weekend Health Advisory: WildfiresSmoke from wildfires in northern and central California is currently affecting air quality in the Bay Area. Air quality throughout much of the nine-county Bay Area region-comprising Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, southwestern Solano and southern Sonoma Counties-is forecast to reach unhealthy levels on Friday, June 27, Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29. The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is advising residents in areas affected by the smoke to be cautious and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities. For more information about local wildfires, see the CAL FIRE website, and the USDA Forest Service. For general smoke and fire information, see our wildfire safety tips and CAPCOA's Smoke Impact information and resources.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Yours in Service,

Jennifer Hosterman

LINKS:
Bay Area Air Quality Management District
CAL FIRE
USDA Forest Service
Wildfire Safety Tips
CAPCOA

Beat the Heat at a Pleasanton Cooling Center

2008-05-15T23:57:00.000-07:00

Looking for a way to beat the heat? The City of Pleasanton has designated public Cooling Centers to allow residents heat relief when it is too hot inside their homes.

When temperatures reach over 100 degrees over two consecutive days, or when unexpected high temperatures occur, the City will activate the Cooling Centers.

Cooling Centers will be in operation on Friday, May 16. Residents are welcome to visit any Cooling Center location.

Cooling Center Locations:

-Pleasanton Senior Center, 5353 Sunol Blvd., open until 10pm, water and activities provided

-Aquatic Center, 4455 Black Avenue, open 1pm to 9pm, recreation swimming will be offered for a reduced rate of $1 per person

-Tennis and Community Park, 5801 Valley Avenue, open until 10pm, water and activities provided

Pleasanton Paratransit Services will be providing free transportation to Pleasanton's Cooling Centers for residents 60 years and older or ADA qualified. Call (925) 931-5376 to arrange a ride and advise the dispatcher that you would like a ride to a Cooling Center.

For more information, call Parks and Community Services Department (925) 931-5340. Please let me know if you have any questions.

June Ballot: Propositions 98 and 99

2008-05-08T23:33:00.000-07:00

On June 3, vote No on Prop. 98, Yes on Prop. 99

For more information, please click on the following:

http://www.no98yes99.com/go/resources/questions-%26-answers-about-propositions-98-and-99/

Thank you!

Sister City 25 Year Anniversary - Pleasanton y Tulancingo, Mexico

2008-04-30T23:32:00.000-07:00

Last week, my husband, Michael, and I traveled to Tulancingo, Mexico, Pleasanton's sister city, to celebrate 25 years of cultural exchange and friendship. Our Mexican friends went way overboard in welcoming us, treating the entire delegation to a reception never before seen!

As a bonus, we were able to meet our foreign exchange student's Mother, Senora Marta Del Blanco, who hosted our daughter, Sarah, some ten years ago, and who's daughter, Nadyr, we hosted that same summer. It was a very special time!

In addition, the two delegations distributed 260 wheelchairs to people in dire need. For the first time, I realized that the wheelchair program is not necessarily for the recipients, but really serves the caregivers. I couldn't have imagined what it is like to receive elderly gentlemen, thanking us, with tears streaming down their faces, pushing their elderly sons in new wheelchairs! It was amazing to me to realize that these elderly people have had to literally carry their adult offspring everywhere. The simple and rather inexpensive gift of a wheelchair is a life-changing event.

Thereafter, we visited the local orphanage, which is currently home to 24 little girls, ages 5 to 12. Most of these kids have been seriously abused, or flat out given up by their parents. They are very well cared for by the nuns, and attend the public school next door. They are clean, and happy. But, their plight is not over. The delegation struggles to find a way to bridge the gap - allow these girls the opportunity to continue through high school from a safe, loving environment, and hopefully, go on to college. Hopefully, we'll find a way to support these kids.

As you can see from my note, Michael and I enjoyed a very rich, life-changing experience, and we made a lot of wonderful new friends! If you have a high school aged child, and you would like your child exposed to a similar wonderful experience as an exchange student, please get in touch with the City of Pleasanton, ask for the phone number for Jorge Victoria or Pat Murray, and get involved! You will be forever grateful that you did!

Annual Workshop Between City Council and School District

2008-04-02T18:57:00.000-07:00

Tonight we held our annual workshop between the Pleasanton City Council and the Pleasanton Unified School District. We talked about many issues, beginning with a report from students who attended Youth In Government Day - an opportunity for high school students to "shadow" councilmembers, school board members, and staff, including our City Manager and our Superintendent. We then heard reports and discussed the Youth Master Plan and the Tri-Valley Adolescent Health Initiative. I have to say, as I did during tonight's workshop, that while we have discussed youth mental health wellness issues for years, I feel tonight that we have a team of people in place who are really going to bring form and substance to this issue, and implement policies, and programs, that will really and truly address some of these issues for the boys and girls in our community.

The plans are to:

-Develop site-based counseling, support groups and education programs for youth, families, school staff and the community to identify mental health warning signs and provide support and referral

-Establish a youth suicide prevention and early intervention strategy

-Provide family support groups and one-to-one parent mentoring to enhance child-adult communications and relationships by partnering with community service providers

-Provide 40 developmental assets training at schools and community to help parents promote positive youth development

We have kids that are super high achievers, and that's great - but they also need to be kids! It's okay to be tops in one's athletic field, and take a ton of AP courses, but its also okay, as one Amador Valley High School Senior pointed out, to take them one at a time - not all at once! No wonder kids are stressed.

And then we have a huge number of kids that are just getting by - or maybe not. Kids who want to go to college, but are not Yale-bound. These young men and women need our support, too.

Finally, the message was clear that students, boy and girls, need their parents to set "boundaries" - they need limits. We all do. Boundaries and limits make us feel safe, because we know what the expectations are, they're realistic, and we can meet them.

I am so proud of this group of people, and again, I really think they are going to develop the strategies needed to address the needs of our Pleasanton youth.

Iron Horse Trail

2008-04-01T18:56:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrated the completion of yet another section of the Iron Horse Trail, in Pleasanton. Of course, we have a long ways to go in meeting and completing desired additional bike and pedestrian (and equestrian) trails that will eventually connect us throughout our town, neighboring towns, the ridge, and the southeast hills. This 1.6 million dollar project necessarily included the joint partnership of the City of Pleasanton, East Bay Regional Parks & Recreation District, the County of Alameda, and ACTIA (Alameda County Transportation Improvement Authority) which is the Authority that spends the tax monies we taxpayers agreed to some years ago (it's our 1/2 cent added sales tax for transportation needs). Eventually, the Iron Horse Trail will comprise 40 miles from Suisun Bay to the City of Livermore! This is just another way that we recognize the importance of allowing people the opportunity to leave their cars at home - which serves many issues from our health to reducing our dependence on foreign oil. I couldn't be more proud of our good work here, with our partners, in our City of Pleasanton!

Happy Holidays

2007-12-24T09:07:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

As we close out the year, I find myself reflecting on the highlights of 2007 in our town of Pleasanton. I continue to be honored to serve allof you! We've worked through some rather contentious issues, and we have more yet to go! Let's take a moment though to reflect on the manythings we have accomplished in the past 12 months.

This year we opened our first public restrooms downtown, we startedwork on the Alviso Adobe interpretive park, we finished renovations on what must be the most gorgeous Veteran's Hall in America, we finished the restoration of Kottinger Creek, we’re moving forward on financing our new Firehouse Theater on Railroad Avenue, we are renovating Pioneer Cemetery, and in early 2008 we will break ground on three new ballparkson the Bernal Property! All exciting stuff, but there's more.

I’m extremely pleased that Supervisor Haggerty and I have been ableto work together for the betterment of Pleasanton. After much discussion and compromise, Supervisor Haggerty and I, through our respective staffs, agreed to Pleasanton's acquisition of the downtown railroad right-of-way, which will eventually add a tremendous number of parking spaces for our shoppers and our shop owners!

In addition, the Supervisor and I supported, and City and County staff negotiated, a memorandum of understanding on the Staples Ranch property (that 140 or so acres sandwiched in between Pleasanton and Livermore on I-580). This MOU is the document that will lead to Pleasanton's abilityto develop that property, moving the burgeoning Pleasanton Auto Mall which will allow us to continue to enjoy a steady stream of revenuefrom one of our top 25 producers of sales tax in our town, build a much needed 17 acre community park, as well as other land uses.

I just got a call from Congressman Jerry McNerney who was very excited to report that it looks like the President will sign the AppropriationsBill which includes $800,000.00 for the Radio Interoperability Joint Powers Authority - a Board on which I sit - toward funding radios and ashared frequency for all first responders throughout Alameda County andContra Costa County. This is a huge homeland security issue and it affects all of us. The bill also includes $1.8 million for a much needed San Ramon Valley water project, and $3 million for the BART bus rapid transit project!

All of these exciting projects will be the stuff of much discussion in 2008. But for now, I'm going to take a much-needed break to enjoy my family and friends over the holiday season. All three of our daughters will be home for Christmas, and Michael and I are very excited! I wish for you and your family a wonderful, safe holiday! See you in 2008.

I remain yours in service,
Jennifer

Pleasanton Weekly Guest Opinion

2007-11-16T13:43:00.000-08:00

We had planned to stay out of the debate over the Oak Grove referendum; however misinformation about the project and confusion in the public about our support considering our history of slow growth, environmental advocacy, and support for neighborhoods, compels us to provide this clarification.

Over three years ago, the property owner started work on a 98-unit plan, which was opposed by the adjacent Kottinger Ranch neighborhood. We have both campaigned against development in the hills and in support of affected neighborhoods. But instead of entering into yet another endless land-use battle, we thought there might be a better way: a collaborative process with the neighbors, the developer, and the city to see if agreement could be reached and these outcomes avoided. Our goals were threefold: empower the neighborhood to help shape the project, provide "finality" from future development, and create a model for the acquisition of public open space for the remaining developable properties in the southeast hills.

The result has been a resounding success! A consensus plan was facilitated by the city for a 51-unit project--half the size of the original--with the addition of $1 million in traffic mitigation fees for the neighborhood, and the dedication of a 497-acre public open space park. The plan then went through the normal Planning Commission and City Council public review process, input was sought throughout, additional issues identified, and adjustments were made. Regulatory agencies will evaluate habitat and mandate mitigation measures, or prohibit building on environmentally sensitive areas. No taxpayer monies will go to fund the open space park--the developer will deed the property to the city, will construct the trails and a staging area, pay the endowment to the easement-holder Tri Valley Conservancy, and the future HOA will be responsible for ongoing maintenance costs. For the units potentially most visible from the valley floor, one story limits, reduction in size, strict design guidelines, and plant and earth berm screening have been mandated. Finally, not one single house has been approved for this project--each will submit detailed plans and visual simulations to both the HOA Design Committee and the city for approval. The Planning Commission can choose to bring each to a public hearing, and any house can be appealed to the City Council for final decision. With these requirements and processes in place, the images presented by some project opponents of two- and three-story 12,000-square-foot white glowing "mega-mansions" sitting on barren hilltops are simply false.

Similar to what the city achieved with the Bernal property, Oak Grove provides nearly 500 acres of public open space in exchange for minimal development within the context of a collaborative neighborhood process and the support of four out of five councilmembers. With this success, the council has taken the first step in achieving a vision for a magnificent 2,000-acre natural park completely accessible to the public stretching from Shadow Cliffs to the Callippe Preserve Golf Course--forever protecting these hills from development. This is an important legacy that this generation can leave to future Pleasantonians.

Matt Sullivan and Jennifer Hosterman

*For more info, visit keepourpark.org

Firehouse Arts Center Open House

2007-10-26T13:36:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday morning, I was joined by Congressman Jerry McNerney for a public tour of our new Firehouse Arts Theater, located at our old Fire Station No. 1 on Railroad Avenue. It was a beautiful day, and the event was very well attended! The City of Pleasanton is partnering with the community in funding this new theater and art gallery, which project should be underway sometime in 2008. I envision a pedestrian-only outdoor mall, extending from the front of the new theater on Railroad, through Spring Street to Main Street - what a wonderful opportunity to expand our downtown core, and give residents and visitors greater shopping and entertainment opportunities in our beautiful downtown! Enhancing cutural arts in Pleasanton is made possible through the vision of the Pleasanton Cultural Arts Foundation, and support by the Pleasanton City Council. For tour opportunities, contact Debbie Look at the Cultural Arts Foundation at 846-1007, or me, and I'll put you in touch! For more information on the Firehouse Arts Center, visit www.pleasantonartsfoundation.org

*See my article on the Firehouse Arts Center in my Fall Newsletter

Jennifer

Congresswoman Tauscher's Notes On Iraq

2007-08-31T13:01:00.000-07:00

Congresswoman Ellen Tauscher recently returned from a Congressional Delegation (CODEL) trip to Iraq. I was moved by the diary of her trip. The link is below:

http://www.house.gov/tauscher/iraqdiary.shtml

Let me know what you think.

Jennifer

Speeding

2007-08-30T13:06:00.000-07:00

I think one of our greatest quality of life issues in our town of Pleasanton has become speeding vehicles. I well-recall having three daughters who, at one time, attended three different schools in Pleasanton. All three needed to be picked up from their respective school sites at exactly 2:50, and for much of the year, had to be deposited on three different sports fields at exactly 3:00, or risk extra laps or even being benched for game. It wasn't easy being a parent and wanting to do the right thing then, and it is even more difficult, today.

We live in a fast paced world, where every moment of our lives counts. We all lead busy lives, where responsibility equates with punctuality. Sure, we all have those terribly rushed mornings where nothing seems to go according to plan - not enough milk for cereal, jeans still wet in dryer, misplaced homework assignment, and where on earth did I leave my shoes?

I ask that everyone who reads my note please give some thought to rising in the morning in time to pull the day together, and commute to schools and jobs safely, within the posted speed limit, and allowing time for bicyclists and pedestrians along the way to likewise make their commute, safely.

This is, after all, Pleasanton. It's up to each and every one of us to keep it that way.

Back To School Transportation Options

2007-08-27T13:07:00.000-07:00

On the eve of Pleasanton children returning to school, I spent most of this week's Mayors Report (Channel 30) addressing school matters and safety issues. For one, even though we don't have school busing, the Wheels Bus does offer bus service to and from the high schools, as well as the middle schools. And, middle school children ride for FREE for the first two weeks!

What a wonderful way to teach a little independence, free up car time, reduce congestion on City streets during the school commute times, and increase safety in our school parking lots. Let's not forget fewer cars on the road equates to lesser carbon emissions - good for our environment. I hope parents will take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.

Please see www.wheelsbus.com for more information! In addition, if you have an interest in walking to school with others, biking to school with others, or carpooling, you can access a "matchlist" to find others in your neighborhood who would like to do the same through www.pleasantonschoolpool.org.

I hope families find this information helpful.

Comments about proposed "Sufi Church"

2007-08-09T00:05:00.000-07:00

I have received several e-mail messages and telephone calls regarding a proposed religious building on Dublin Canyon Road in Pleasanton. There’s been a lot of misinformation about this proposal, much of it spread by a local radio broadcast. A recent article in the Contra Costa Times - Sufis seek to build study center <http://www.contracostatimes.com/search/ci_6563108> - clears up much of that misinformation.

I’d like to expand on a few of the key points addressed in that article:

-We have a planning process in Pleasanton that is the same for everyone. Any individual may bring a proposal for a land use to the City Planning Department for review. The Planning Department educates the applicant as to what uses are appropriate given the type of use and its placement. New structures and major renovations to existing structures must go before the Planning Commission - a body of appointed residents who advise the City Council. The Planning Commission may approve a project, or it may reject it. If the project is rejected and the applicant feels strongly that the project is a good one, the applicant can appeal the decision of the Planning Commission to the City Council.

-I understand that a group of people have proposed building a structure that they describe as a Sufi church. This proposal will be before the Planning Commission, at the Commission’s next regularly scheduled meeting. Depending upon the outcome of that meeting, the proposal mayor may not come before the City Council - though my guess is that it will at some point in the near future.

-Neither the Mayor and Council, nor the City of Pleasanton is in the business of building churches, synagogues, mosques, or any other religiously-affiliated building. The Constitution forbids that kind of excessive entanglement between church and state. The City of Pleasanton receives many proposals for development. Even if I or any other Councilmember believed that the proposed project was unfit for a particular place in our community, we can’t pull the plug on the public process. In fact, it’s part of our job to make sure that the process is as fair and objective as possible.

I want to add that I am dismayed and disappointed by the harsh, and occasionally bigoted, tone of some of the messages I have received. I want to emphasize that this isn't an observation about even a majority of those who have contacted me, but it does describe such a significant minority that it concerns me greatly.

This is not the time, and Pleasanton is not the place, for the incitement of hatred or fear. This is the time, and Pleasanton is the place, for embracing our diversity - who we are as a people, and who we are as a community. It is by our commitment to being an all-inclusive, well-educated, and caring community that we allow for the important exchange of cultural similarities and differences and a heightened understanding of who we are - and what we as a community teach our children.

I remain yours in service,
Jennifer

P.S. I do not respond to "anonymous" calls and notes. If you can't tell me who you are so that I know you are one of my constituents, I cannot respond. I think it’s only fair that I reserve my time for those who elected me.

Shakespeare in the Park

2007-07-10T19:26:00.000-07:00

On Opening Night, I had the pleasure of meeting and greeting those in attendance at Pleasanton's own free Shakespeare In The Park. This year's Shakespearean event is "A Midsummer Night's Dream." It is extremely well done and hilarious! I recommend this production to everyone! While there, a group of children seated on a blanket behind my husband and me, were saying the lines before the actors' said their lines! I was duly impressed. Anyway, it was a great deal of fun to meet many of you and see some familiar faces as well. I continue to be very proud of the many services our City is able to offer to you, the public, and I am impressed with the increasing numbers of families who avail themselves of these many great opportunities. Hmmmm. . . what other fun stuff can we make available in Pleasanton? Have an idea? Drop me a line! :)

*Shakespeare in the Park continues at Amador Valley Community Park on weekends through 7/15 at 7:30PM

First Wednesday Street Party

2007-06-07T21:24:00.000-07:00

As many know, I had a booth set up on Main Street for the First Wednesday Street Party. This event has become a favorite of Pleasantonians, as well as visitors from throughout the Valley. I had a wonderful time, meeting and greeting many of you, who again, took a few minutes out of your evening to share your thoughts, concerns, and opinions on issues facing all of us in our town.

And, I took a few tomatoes from some of you, as well, over the Council's decision to approve a shopping center on the corner of Stanley and Valley, which project includes a Home Depot and a new Long's Drug Store, as well as other retail shops.There’s been a lot of confusion about this project in our community and staff has pulled the second reading of this project, pending a review of the facts and assumptions relied upon in making the decision for approval. The Council will revisit this project in the next few months.

All in all, it was a very successful evening, in that I had the opportunity to hear from many of you, which was my goal. I will again make myself available at the First Wednesday Street Party in September. I hope to see you, again!

Office Hours at the Sports Park

2007-06-02T21:22:00.000-07:00

I thoroughly enjoyed my time spent at the Sports Park, in an effort to make myself more accessible to the public! This time gave me the opportunity to hear from, and speak with, many of you regarding the issues that are most important to you in Pleasanton. Thank you to all who took time out of your busy lives to meet me and share your thoughts and opinions.

And, I got to see some very good softball! Our young Pleasanton women athletes are very, very good! Thank you, Phantom, for the gift of the T-shirt. I've already worn it, and proudly!

(Mayor Hosterman held office hours at the Sports Park for the Pleasanton Girls Softball Championship Day)

Welcome!

2007-06-01T19:09:00.000-07:00

Dear friends, voters, constituents,

This is my blogsite - an opportunity for me to share my thoughts regarding all issues facing us in our town of Pleasanton. I hope you find this site useful! Of course, many issues are by their nature emotionally charged. As such, I ask that this blogsite consist of thoughtful dialogue, in a civil manner. We can agree to disagree, but if you do agree with me, let me know that, too!

A Win!

2006-11-20T21:19:00.001-08:00

It appears we have secured a win! The Alameda County Registrar, Dave MacDonald, stated that his crew concluding their count of all ballots today. He upgraded the AC website with new numbers, and it appears I have 189 votes more than my opponent.

This is not by any means a landslide. I am dismayed and disgusted, to be perfectly honest, that our town would be the subject of such dirty campaign strategies. But, its over.

We now move forward with a new Council and a new beginning - I am ever so mindful that 49% of the voters chose someone else - I'll work hard this next two years, in representing our entire city, to garner the support of those who chose another candidate, and truly show bipartisan leadership on all those issues that affect us here in Pleasanton.

Thank you all for your support, your friendship, your kind words, and your constant encouragement.

Pleasanton Police don't believe my opponent can do the job!

2006-11-03T18:14:00.000-08:00

From Detective Jerry Niceley, President,Pleasanton Police Officers Association, as follows:

Recently, mayoral candidate Steve Brozosky ran a full back-page advertisement in the Oct. 13 Pleasanton Weekly. The ad featured three bulleted points in large print, which Brozosky claims are the most important local issues - traffic congestion, public safety and quality of life.

We agree that these are very important issues facing our city. The Pleasanton Police Officer's Association recognizes that we share a major stake in all three of those issues. Working with the support of hte city and police management, we strive to ensure those issues are our primary focus.

We also need the support of our current City Council and Mayor to ensure we remain a competitive and desireable agency that contines to hire the most highly qualified applicants. We need someone who understands the direction of the city of leasanton, the Police Department and the Pleasanton Police Officers Association is headed in order to maintain that quality of life.

We do not believe candidate Brozosky has a clear understanding of these issues nor do we believe he comprehends how they will be most effectively addressed. The Pleasanton Police Officers Association supports Jennifer Hosterman for Mayor.

Tri-Valley Herald Endorsement

2006-11-03T18:13:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, November 2, the Tri-Valley Herald endorsed me for Mayor of Pleasanton. "The city has progressed on several fronts during her (Hosterman's) first term, including business devleopment and the general plan update. She has built alliances with regional agencies and elected officials in other cities. The easement she helped negotiate through the Staples Ranch property means the city can comfortably wait to make a decision on the Stoneridge Drive extension."

This makes 3 for 3 newspapers so far!

Sign defacement across the country

2006-10-30T20:14:00.000-08:00

This is from my Mom:

This is just so you people in Pleasanton won't feel alone. Today I had to drive into Missoula, and as I exited the freeway, I had todrive thru some residential areas to reach the shopping area. The political signs along the way (and there are hundreds) are all victims of vandalism. Some are ripped up, some are cut in two, some are just mashed up. You don't have ALL the adult juveniles in the world, we have our share too!! It was funny, except my name wasn't ripped up, so I may have felt differently if I were the object of the vandal's affections. Stoopid is area wide.

From Missoula, Montana, that's my Mom!!!!

E-Mail Usage

2006-10-28T17:27:00.000-07:00

I have answered to every local source of media regarding my use of my city e-mail account for campaign business. An article came out in The Independent today, and the Pleasanton Weekly will cover this story tomorrow. I have been consistent with my response. The Government Code is clear that government equipment, including e-mail accounts, may not be used for campaign matters. Unfortunately, with 3 accounts, I did inadvertently answer correspondence that came into my City account inappropriately. I have apologized, and I here apologize, again. But, this isn't about me - this is about preserving the public trust in local government. As such, City staff, with my blessing, sent off all of my e-mails (37 total, if you count all inquiries and my responses) to Tom Orloff, District Attorney for Alameda County. Mr. Orloff has indicated that while this happens inadvertently all the time, he will take a look at my e-mails and render a decision as to whether my misuse rises to the level of violating the Government Code.

The D.A.'s office will apply a two-part test: First, in order to determine if the subject of those e-mails was "campaign activity", the D.A. will consider whether the use was "minimal" or "incidental." Here, the number amounts to less than 4% of all e-mail activity on my City account over the past year. But, if the D.A. finds that the use was more than "minimal" or "incidental", then the second part of the test is whether this use amounted to any economic loss to the City. Hopefully, we'll get his decision sooner, rather than later.

I am not being investigated by the City, nor am I being "charged" by the D.A.'s office. My staff suggested, and I concurred, that this entire question would best be put to rest by the top - in this case, the Alameda County District Attorney's office.

I trust Mr. Orloff's office will render a decision which will find my use of my City e-mail account, inadvertent. Now, hopefully, we can move on to discussing the many issues currently facing our City, rather than answering to what amounts to smear attempts. Really, I think the people of Pleasanton deserve better! I'll just bet you think so, too!

The Independent endorses Pleasanton Mayor

2006-10-12T20:22:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Hosterman has her flaws as Pleasanton mayor. Nevertheless, she has been vigorous in promoting a green consciousness that now infuses virtually the entire Pleasanton government. Hosterman has been a real spearhead in this area.

Also, she strongly supports affordable housing, while Steve Brozosky's support for it has been inconsistent. Pleasanton is nearing buildout. A commitment to affordable housing will be more crucial than ever in the upcoming years. We think that with Hosterman in the mayor's seat, rather than Brozosky, it's more likely affordable housing will be a priority for these last remaining units.

Brozosky is running on a leadership platform. However, he has his own flaws and has failed to demonstrate leadership qualities to this newspaper, the Pleasanton Chamber of Commerce and others.

Brozosky is a nitpicker, rather than a leader. Though he pledges to bring the council and the city together, he has been disruptive, sniping at Hosterman on a regular basis, often over petty matters.

Brozosky and his supporters attack Hosterman's activism in national and global issues. They contend the mayor and council should confine themselves to local issues.

All issues are ultimately local. By bringing home the issues of the nation and world, such as global warming, mayors like Jennifer Hosterman are energizing democracy. All citizens should welcome that.

http://www.independentnews.com/Editorial.htm

Debate follow-up

2006-10-12T11:01:00.000-07:00

Recently, with support from fellow boardmembers of the CMA, (Alameda County Congestion Management Agency - there's a link from my website) I secured $75 million dollars to build a new lane on east bound I-580. This is exciting! This project will break ground in 10 to 14 months, and thereafter, take two years to completion.

During the candidate debates, my opponent continually referred to his ability to "reach out" to other elected officials on behalf of Pleasanton. He continues to cite his one and only "trip to Washington" and his ability to "bring home $18 million dollars for I-580." Interesting, as he went in my place, as my Vice Mayor, and the money was previously secured by members of the Alameda County Congestion Management Agency. I appreciate that he was able to travel, in my stead.

According to CMA staff projections, this new lane will result in much needed congestion relief and reduction in travel times, which is good for the entire Tri-Valley, but especially, Pleasanton!

This is by no means a panacea to gridlock, but its a start. I hope you think so, too!

Southeast Hills Development

2006-10-09T22:54:00.000-07:00

One of the last remaining open space preservation opportunities in Pleasanton is in our Southeast Hills. This area stretches from our southeastern urban boundaries of Vintage Hills and Kottinger Ranch, from Shadow Cliffs in the north, to Callippe Preserve Golf Course in the south, and to Highway 84 in the east. More than 2,000 acres of ranch land and open space!

There are several development proposals in the works that threaten these hills – Oak Grove (originally conceived at 98 homes), Lund Ranch II (up to 150 homes), the Sportorno developments (roughly 72 homes) – that could threaten the integrity of this open space and the habitat they provide to a variety of species. Traditionally, this type of development has been very controversial in Pleasanton, resulting in divided City Council’s, citizen referendums, lawsuits, and endless land use battles that have not always been settled in the best interests of our community at large.

Understanding the history of these issues – because we have lived it “on the ground” – Vice Mayor Matt Sullivan and I envisioned a better way. Why not let the neighborhoods and the developers work together – facilitated by the highest levels of city government – to see if a compromise agreement could be reached that both parties could support?

Underlying this concept was the Vision of 2,000 acres of open space protected in perpetuity, certainty for both the neighbors and developers that “this was it” – no more expensive and exhausting land use battles – and the protection of our eastern Urban Growth Boundary from further threats to development. It was definitely a long shot – but something that we thought worth trying.

We approached the neighbors, the landowners, and the developers with our idea. There was certainly skepticism, but somewhat to our surprise, they were willing to give it a shot! We chose the project that furthest along the development applications process with the City – Oak Grove (formerly known as Kottinger Hills, owned by the Lin Family of North Livermore fame). A project 15 years ago proposed by the Lin’s was approved by the City Council, but then referended by the citizens in a bitter fight. This project had some history!

Representatives of the neighborhood and the developer worked for months on the issues: traffic on Hearst Drive, loss of open space, the environmental issues associated with hillside development in a pristine area, and general loss of neighborhood Quality of Life – not to mention the animosity left over from the previous referendum. Primarily due to the willingness of all parties to accept compromise an agreement was reached! Instead of 98 homes, the developer and the neighbors agreed on 51. The City would be deeded 500 acres of open space for protection from development forever! And Hearst Drive would be the recipient of traffic calming and other mitigations to lessen the impact of this new development. This agreement was later ratified by the Kottinger Ranch HOA, sealing the deal.

This plan will still work it’s way through the public process – an Environmental Impact Report, then to the Planning Commission for approval, and finally to the City Council for the ultimate say. But this process has been a stunning success! Our Vision was one of empowering the neighborhood, putting them on a level playing field with the developer, and seeing if something positive could result. It worked!

And I can’t wait to take this process to the rest of the Southeast Hills. Stay tuned!

Where'd the signs go?

2006-10-07T10:29:00.000-07:00

Hmmmm. . . something funny is going on out there. For some reason, past supporters who gladly took a Hosterman sign to display in their yard have suddenly had a change of heart, and instead, have replaced my signs with those of my opponent. Who is going to the front door of my supporters, and what is he/she saying? I hope whatever the message, that its honest and true. If not, shame on those who would stoop to any low, for a yard sign.

Pleasanton Weekly Endorsement

2006-10-07T10:15:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to announce that the Pleasanton Weekly has endorsed my candidacy for re-election to the office of Mayor of the great City of Pleasanton!

In its endorsement, the Weekly wrote:

". . . she (Hosterman) has shown better temperament than her challenger, Councilman Steve Brozosky. She actually appointed him as vice-mayor during her first term only to have him attack her at every opportunity. "

also:

"Hosterman states that her primary focus is on protecting the quality of life in Pleasanton, focusing both locally and regionally on improving our transportation systems, maintaining and strengthening the business community and in being honest about her positions and views on issues. She is also interested in the council finishing the five highest priority projects it has identified. It is hard to accomplish much as an elected official in just two years. So many things have been set in motion that we believe it would be wise to let her serve another two years. That is particularly important when it comes to regional transportation decisions."

Of my opponent, the Weekly wrote:

"The role of the mayor is to primarily work with the other members of the City Council to reach collective decisions and then to communicate them effectively to the community and to the region. We believe Brozosky would have difficulty with both of these." Further, "His term has been driven by negativity as he uses the Council meetings to publicly criticize the existing mayor and other members of the council with whom he disagrees. While that might work for some in politics, Pleasanton deserves better."

And, finally, let me add my commentary regarding candidates for the Council. I have endorsed Cheryl Cook-Kallio, and I intend to vote to keep Councilmember Jerry Thorne in office. While there are many issues on which the three of us disagree, they are both fine representatives of the people, and will add balance to the Council.

I hope you will carefully consider the same.

Campaign Update

2006-10-06T12:42:00.000-07:00

Here's an update on what's going on with my campaign for re-election:

Tomorrow morning - Farmers Market - come on down, grab a shirt or hat, and meet and greet the public! Please join us, if you can.

We are walking precincts this weekend. Late today (Friday) I'll have neighborhood "lists" of likely voters available in front of my house, along with walking pieces for pickup. Please call my cell if you plan to pick up tonight.

We have a mass mailer scheduled to go out, in advance of absentee ballots, next week.

The filing deadline for Form 460 was yesterday - my campaign reported earnings of over $15,000.00 in this filing period, alone. But, since 5:00 yesterday, we took in over $2,000.00 in addition to that figure. Thank you all for your support!

Teacher of the Year Award

2006-10-05T23:28:00.000-07:00

Today, I joined Alameda County Superintendent of Schools, Sheila Jordan, and her fellow Board Member, Yvonne Cerrado, as well as Dr. John Casey's office, in presenting Amador Valley High School teacher Brian Ladd with the Alameda County Teacher of the Year Award. Mr. Ladd has been a long-time Amador government teacher, and is being honored for coaching his students with the "We The People" competition civics program. Our Amador team placed first in the State last year, and second in the Country! (It is important to note that our Foothill High School "We The People" team placed second in the State!)

Mr. Ladd is long recognized for his dedication to educating young men and women on the importance of understanding the United States Constitution, the rights it bestows upon all Americans, but most importantly, how those granted rights take meaning when executed.

I hope all boys and girls, men and women, will contemplate a career in public life, whether its public service in working in a governmental position, or as an elected official! There is no greater patriotic calling, in my estimation, than service to one's community.

Congratulations to Mr. Ladd for bringing that message home to the young men and women of Amador Valley High School!

Commission Positions

2006-10-05T23:26:00.000-07:00

Today, the deadline to accept applications for City-wide commissions was extended. A Planning Commissioner, Brian Arkin, resigned yesterday, effective immediately. Since this position is so vital to the City's ability to move forward projects of every conceivable nature, the City has extended the deadline to allow application for this, and other Commission positions.

If you have ever thought of serving your community more fully, please do consider accessing the City of Pleasanton's website for more information on all positions available on our many Commissions! The link is on the right side of this page.

Partisan Race?

2006-10-03T10:05:00.000-07:00

My opponent announced today that he has the endorsements of three if my colleagues - Karen Stepper, this year's Mayor of Danville, Marshall Kamena, Mayor of Livermore, Abram Wilson, Mayor of San Ramon, and Supervisor Scott Haggerty of Alameda County.

While I have enjoyed working with all of these fine people, and I hope to continue to work with them, I am nonetheless disappointed in their divisive choice to take sides. If we are going to solve our most pressing issues, locally and regionally, we really do need to maintain open lines of communication.

But what's really disappointing is that the Mayor's office is non-partisan. All of these people are republicans. Is the office of Mayor becoming a partisan race, based on political affiliation? Is that a good for the people?

Despite this, I will continue to run a non-partisan, honest, and positive campaign. And if I am honored to be re-elected to another term, I will do my best to represent everyone in Pleasanton - regardless of their political affiliations. That is my commitment to you as Mayor.

BBQ review and the next fundraiser

2006-10-01T18:01:00.000-07:00

Last night, Friday, September 29, the Campaign to re-elect Jennifer Hosterman Mayor of the City of Pleasanton held a BBQ at the Alameda County Fairgrounds which netted over $2,000.00 - at an asked campaign contribution of $25.00 per person! We enjoyed a wonderful meal of tri-tip and chicken served by our Pleasanton firefighters, to tables beautifully illuminated by LOTS of candles (thanks to Megan and Sarah Hosterman), outstanding live music by The New Hour, nice bonfire (good thing - it was a little chilly!), and great company, including many people I had the pleasure of meeting for the first time. Channel 30 covered the event, as well as The Pleasanton Weekly. Past Mayor of Pleasanton, Mayor Tom Pico, gave a wonderful introduction, and I took the opportunity to speak about my vision for our town.

If you were there, thank you once again for your attendance, your support, and your friendship! If you didn't make it, you missed a great party! :)

The next planned (in cement) fundraiser is October 22, a Sunday, at 4:00. Tommy of Tommy T's in Pleasanton will donate his show "Three Blond Moms" to my campaign for re-election. These women talk about every day lives of Moms - marriage and motherhood, and they are SO funny, you'll have a difficult time staying on your chair (and not falling to the floor)! This event is $30.00 per person, includes a salad and glass of wine, and I'm quite sure tickets are available, while they last, online.

I hope you can make it!

Mayor's Summit

2006-10-01T17:53:00.000-07:00

Last week, the Livermore Chamber of Commerce hosted the annual Mayors Summit, which included all five of us in the Valley - Mayor Karen Stepper of Danville, Mayor Abram Wilson of San Ramon, Mayor Janet Lockhart of Dublin, Mayor Marshall Kamena of Livermore, and myself. It was a fabulous event that took place at the gorgeous Wente Winery, and the weather was perfect! Over 400 people attended, and many questions were asked about issues facing all of us, a collective population of 260,000, in the Valley.

The event is being replayed on our local stations, I believe Channel 26. Do catch the replay, if you can - I thought it was quite good! Let me know your thoughts.

The Second Debate

2006-09-26T22:14:00.000-07:00

Last night was the second in a series of "candidate forums" which will be held throughout the City of Pleasanton between now and election day. It was somewhat awkward, in that volunteers from the League of Women Voters chose what questions from the audience would be asked of the candidates, myself and my opponent. For some reason, we didn't get any questions about traffic (hmmm. . .) and other very good questions (why would the Council pull out the round-a-bouts at a cost in excess of $600,000.00 of taxpayer monies?) were likewise, not asked.

Unfortunately, my opponent has difficulty staying on the issues, and tends down that slippery slope of misinformation and nitpicking jibes. I think the people of Pleasanton deserve better, not just in their Mayor, but in their candidates! One of the areas I intend to work on in the coming two years, should you re-elect me to office, is finding new, young people who care about our community and are willing to serve office on behalf of all of us.

Nonetheless, the response was very favorable regarding my performance. I hope you will check out the replay which will be on Channel 26, October 1, 2, 3, and I think the 4th, at 8:00 p.m. Let me know your thoughts!

Write those letters!

2006-09-22T08:55:00.000-07:00

We're on track for a great BBQ fundraiser on September 29, a week from today, at the fairgrounds. I would like to have 300 in attendance, which means I need your help - you need to invite people, ask them to RSVP to me directly, and I need YOUR RSVP, as well! I need a somewhat accurate headcount so we don't wind up paying for a bunch of food that goes uneaten. Thank you for all of your help!

Tomorrow, we'll be at Farmers Market, but on the "First Street" side, as the Pleasanton Downtown Association will be filming on Main Street for advertising. They've asked that we comply, and not be in the way (we candidates) and I will certainly comply with their wishes.

I have buttons, T-shirts, and I should have yard signs tomorrow. Please come by to pick up all. And, if you can, hang out and talk to people about Pleasanton! It is alot of fun!

Letters to the Editors - some of you received Matt Sullivan's note and letter yesterday regarding the same. If you haven't been reading the locals, my opponent and his supporters have been writing mean-spirited letters to the editors, in what appears to be a smear campaign, which is no surprise, as he certainly can't beat me on the issues! If you are so inclined, now would be the time to write a letter to the editors, in support of my campaign for re-election. Of course, you can write what you want, but I'd encourage you to write positively - while we have our issues, Pleasanton is a great place to live, and I, as your Mayor, will continue to work hard to keep it that way! Thank you.

The next Candidate Forum will be put on by the League of Women Voters, Monday night, in Council chambers. Please come out and support me, if you can. Council candidates will be questioned at 7:00, followed by Mayor candidates at 8:00. The audience always has an opportunity to ask questions, so this would be a good time to feed questions to us, for our responses.

Lastly, I need your help in putting together fundraisers. Please consider hosting a coffee, or a wine and cheese event in your home, and inviting your neighbors - I would love to have an opportunity to talk about my vision for our town, and hear from others.

Thank you for all of your support! I can't win this race without you!

Update

2006-09-12T22:26:00.000-07:00

Two events took place today:

1. The Pleasanton Chamber of Commerce BACPAC committee decided to not endorse a Mayoral candidate (that's great news for us!), and

2. Supervisor Haggerty has endorsed Councilmember Brozosky for Mayor of Pleasanton.

As to the first, I am personally gratified that all of my time working with our business community which includes the Chamber of Commerce has paid off - They (and some members called me today) believe I'm the best candidate for Mayor, but couldn't turn the tide of ill-will with those die hards that have been at the helm for too many years. Atleast, we can play with an even slate - and, I think we'll get more support, given the BACPAC'S stance.

I am pleased to say that the BACPAC did endorse Cheryl Cook-Kallio, for Council, who I think will be a great addition to our council. If you want to know more about her, let me know, or check out her website. She's awesome!

Second, Supervisor Haggerty endorsed Councilmember Brozosky. Am I worried? Not in the least. Supervisor Haggerty keeps his childrens' 4-H project animals on Councilmember Brozosky's property, and as such, enjoys a special relationship. But, their relationship goes further - while I have gone to bat for the people of Pleasanton and fought the County on numerous issues - Staples Ranch, the Stoneridge Drive Extension, the ACE Train station, putting up a fence in Happy Valley, etc., Supervisor Haggerty, even though he was elected to represent the people of Pleasanton, has failed miserably to do so, and Councilmember Brozosky is apparently his new lapdog with regard to all of those issues.

First, we need to soundly defeat Brozosky's bid for Mayor of Pleasanton. Second, we need to seriously consider a contender to campaign for County Supervisor, so we can secure a Supervisor who will look out for the best interests of his/her constituency - the people of Pleasanton.

Let me know what you can do to help. I appreciate your continued support more than you know!

Welcome!

2006-09-12T21:13:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Re-Elect Mayor Jennifer Hosterman blog! Be sure to check back here or add us to your RSS feed to see the latest news and issues as we go through the campaign and roll to victory in November!