Residents of the Coastal Hills
I believe we are immensely blessed to live in City Council District 1 – The Coastal Hills. But San Bruno, like all suburbs, got caught in a debt trap – The Growth Ponzi Scheme.
https://www.strongtowns.org/
We experienced a modest, short-term illusion of wealth in exchange for enormous long-term liabilities. Former city manager played a shell game to try to “balance” the budget – robbing Peter (SB Cable) to pay Paul (city staff). Top priority were emergency services – police and fire; while infrastructure – stormwater, street pavement, electrical were neglected for decades. As a result of long-term neglect, everything became an “emergency!” Example: When the Rollingwood blackouts occurred, residents feared an increase in crime. So both police and infrastructure costs increased! This is not a smart way to run a city! Prudent use of bonds (debt) is not to perpetuate a growth ponzi scheme, but to invest in income-generating infrastructure like SB Cable.
Has City of San Bruno ever represented the Coastal Hills? SB Community Foundation was created from a PG&E settlement in lieu of a lawsuit in which 8 people died. How does a new Rec & Aquatic Center benefit residents of the Coastal Hills? Rollingwood Elementary is slated to close in 2023. How will a possible sale affect our community?
I believe I have the qualities and experience to truly represent the residents of the Coastal Hills, and humbly request your vote.
Jeffrey Tong, Candidate
San Bruno City Council, District 1