ORANGE COUNTY VOICES ON MEASURE R : It’s Time We Learn to Live Within Our Means

The voters of Orange County have been given a false dilemma: Either vote for Measure R or face cuts in law enforcement and other vital services.

I do not support Measure R, because I believe that government needs to live within its means.

During the years that I have been successfully elected to the Anaheim City School and Anaheim Union High School district school boards, and recently to the Anaheim City Council, I have never voted for a tax increase.

Before my election to the City Council last year, the prior City Council invested $169 million in the Orange County Investment Fund. The city’s loss was more than $19 million.

When I was sworn in as a councilman, I did not blame anyone. I just rolled up my sleeves and worked with the City Council, the staff and concerned citizens.

Together we were able to bring in a balanced budget that included longer hours for city libraries and the opening of city swimming pools.

In addition, we committed additional monies to youth programs and we hired nine additional police officers. All this was done without raising taxes.

I believe that there are many other measures that can be taken besides raising taxes.

First, I would re-evaluate the investment policy.

A good example is the city of Anaheim. By reinvesting, we were able to cut the $19-million loss to about $3 million.

Second, I would consolidate departments. This would eliminate high-paying management positions.

For example, Anaheim consolidated Anaheim Stadium and the Convention Center, saving $370,000.

I would also give early retirement incentives to employees near retirement age and leave these positions open.

And sell off unused county property and use this money to balance the budget, or to reinvest.

I urge voters to vote No on Measure R.