My Vision is to...

Solve the financial crisis created by the defeat of the Parcel Tax. We have road and storm drainage improvements that have been deferred. We had to eliminate five police officer positions including the School Resource Officer Program. Non tax-deductible fees were implemented for services that were previously tax-deductible. Even with these reductions and fee increases, we still had to use last year's salary savings to balance the budget.

Create a motivated working environment for both the Town staff and committee volunteers. The defeat of the Parcel Tax took a human resource toll on both of these groups. After the defeat of the Parcel Tax, five police offers resigned; three of the finalists for the city manager's position withdrew, and several committee members resigned. Presently the Town has both staff and committee openings that need to be filled. We will need to modernize the Town facilities to create the proper working environment.

Develop a plan that increases the use of Holbrook-Palmer Park. The Park is the main gathering point for our community. Park resources should be utilized to build community while preserving the park's beauty.

Develop master plans with our schools...master plans that allow them to modernize ans stay competitive, and yet will not cause traffic problems and negatively impact the life styles of their Atherton neighbors.

Position Summary...

1. Our Budget- At the recent city council meeting the consensus was to place the Parcel Tax on the June Ballot. I believe this is the right approach.

2. Our Infrastructure- Maintenance on our roads can only be deferred so long before total replacement becomes necessary. Once the road and storm drainage reports are in, we will need to gain consensus and take action. I managed a team that modernized parts of over 300 Department of Defense units from 1983-1993; with this experience I can do the most cost effective job for our Town.

3. Our Schools- We should work with our schools so that their modernization does not diminish our quality of life.

4. Our Park and Recreation- I have spent many hours meeting and discussing with the many groups that use Holbrook-Palmer Park. Here are some of my views:

• Regarding space for the Art Committee- I have been in discussion with three donors who are interested in starting a fund for rehabilitation of the Carriage House. A feasibility study was done in 1988. I have brought this idea to the appropriate committees.
  
  
• An Atherton Recreation Program- In recent years Atherton residents have applied over 25,000 times for programs offered by Menlo Park, often to be turned down. Menlo Park appears willing to provide the organization if we provide the facilities.
  
  
• The Annual Town Picnic- I would reinstate our Town Picnic. In addition we might consider having a rotating annual picnic with Woodside and Portola Valley.
  
  
• Little League- I believe the final plan is fair and will have positive results. Our youth will develop a sense of commitment to the Park and we can build community.
  
  
• Commercial use of the Park- Two months ago I suggested that we restrict the main house to Town programs as part of a Jennings Pavilion Renovation. As a Town we have provided facilities for many non-residents, but our needs have to come first.
  
  
• The Children's Play Area- My campaign treasurer Dorothea Collins and Michelle Dollinger are raising private funds to modernize the children's play area.

Copyright© 2000 Committee to Elect Charles Marsala Phone-650.328.7113 Fax-650.328.5318 Direct your email to: Charles Marsala

This site designed and maintained by
Ginny Moore Graphics & Guy Gilchrist Productions

Home