CLEARLAKE — Candidates vying for a seat on the Clearlake City Council answered questions last night concerning their goals and visions for the city. The candidate forum, which was held at Calvary Chapel in Clearlake, entertained questions composed by longstanding members of the church community.
Five of the six candidates seeking election in November were present for opening statements. James Reed, the sixth candidate to join the race for one of three seats open in the election, arrived in time to answer a few questions and provide a closing statement. Reed had previously reported that he had made a prior commitment and would be late in arriving at the forum.
Opening statements provided each of the candidates an opportunity to introduce themselves and describe their accomplishments and/or goals for the future. Incumbents Curt Giambruno, Joyce Overton and Judy Thein each recounted the accomplishments realized in the city throughout the past four years. Accomplishments included such tasks as new administration, the recent road rehabilitation project, safe passage for seniors, youth services, progress in redevelopment projects and other achievements.
In closing Giambruno said that he would like to continue to serve the city and that his wish list includes providing a public parking lot on Lakeshore Drive, converting the senior center in a solar-powered building and expanding economic development. He also said he would like to see a small children”s playground at Redbud Park.
In her closing statement, Overton said she would also like to continue to serve the citizens of the city. She would like to remain accountable and keep moving forward with continued support for the needs of the residents.
Thein closed her remarks with the same request to continue her service as a councilmember. She said public service is about helping people and as a 25 year resident she has a deep understanding of the city. She said she would like to continue to serve the citizens with honorable representation.
Estella Creel said she”s been a resident of Clearlake for the past 3 ? years. She said she had come to retire and saw that the town could use a little bit of help. Creel said she also sees a lack of vision for the city. “I have a vision,” she said. “I have the ambition. I have the drive to make that happen.” In closing, Creel said a vote for her is a vote for someone who will work hard and listen.
In his closing statement, Reed told the audience that he has managerial experience and that he believes running a city is like running a business. He said he has no political experience. As councilmember he said he would meet the needs of the people of the community and listen to the voice of the community.
Bill Shields suggested reading his campaign flyer when delivering his opening and closing statements. He said the flyer states his positions and visions.
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com.
