Patrick Tucker

Name: Patrick “Pat” Tucker

Age:46

Birthplace: Philadelphia

How long have you lived in Fountain Valley? 16 years

Occupation: sales and operations manager of 20 tire stores

Education: high school diploma

Previously elected or appointed positions: Fountain Valley High School Baseball Board Ways & Means and Fountain Valley High School Baseball Board second vice president

Community organizations you belong to: proud supporter of Tip-A –Cop, Taste of Fountain Valley, Kiwanis Club Poker Tournament and Summerfest.

What do you think are the biggest issues facing Fountain Valley right now?

The slowdown in the economy causing loss of revenue for our local businesses and decreasing home values. Finding a way to attract shoppers and consumers to Fountain Valley will go a long way towards increasing sales tax based revenues.

What is one decision in the last year that the City Council got right and why would you have supported it?

The council voted unanimously on Ordinance No. 1444, extending a moratorium on marijuana dispensing facilities. I could not agree more with this decision except that it should be a permanent ban. Posession of marijuana is a federal offense and is against the law. I believe in “rule of law” and the liberals in Sacramento do not have the authority under the Constitution of the United States of America to supersede the law of the land.

What is one decision in the last year that the City Council got wrong, or partially wrong, and why would you have voted differently?

Overall, I feel the City Council members have done a reasonably good job. I do feel strongly, however, that the current members should honor the will of the voters, and adhere to the term limits that were voted in 2004 by an overwhelming 74% of Fountain Valley voters. There should be no “grandfather” clause in this instance, and the will of the community should be honored.

I feel the political system should be comprised of common citizens who have a desire to serve their communities, not career politicians. Government at all levels should be similar to a relay race, participants may serve a term or two, then pass the baton on to new delegates for a fresh new perspective. Our Founding Fathers served this way and then returned to the private sector.