As I look back on 2009 I am reminded of Thomas Paine’s statement, “These are the times that try men’s souls.” Our national, state and counties’ ailing economies are suffering through the worst recession in decades. The deficit has tripled to a record $1.4 trillion and rising unemployment has risen to over ten percent. Americans have lost jobs, homes, and sometimes, even the ability to dream for a better future for themselves and their children.
California continues to have some of the highest business and income tax in the west, and we wonder why businesses and residents are leaving? The cost of medical care and benefits continue to increase. California continues to be a donor state to the federal government. We get back 78 cent on each dollar sent to Washington. New Mexico and Mississippi get back more than two dollars for every one they send.
Where are our representatives in Washington? If we increase the percentage of Federal return, we could help, if not fund, education and help lower taxes in California. Cities, residents, and businesses are tired of being the state’s private “ATM.”
San Ramon is preparing for the future. Trying to balance our budget, manage reserves, create jobs, ensure safety, attract and maintain a strong business community, and address health needs, is not easy. It becomes even more difficult if those around you compound the problem because they just keep kicking the can down the road. Well in California, the road has come to an end, and we are near the edge of a cliff. We must, if we want to save our state, county and city, hold elected officials accountable for their actions.
San Ramon’s vision and future planning efforts are built on four basic organizational philosophies. First, we demand and expect quality, and hold ourselves accountable for our community facilities and infrastructure. We use a pay-for-performance model to attract and keep quality employees. Second, we are proactive in our approach to planning and fiscal responsibility. We plan ahead. We save money for a rainy day. We actually match expenditures to our revenues. Third, we enter into partnerships in order to gain more value with our limited resources. Fourth, we have learned from the business community how to be successful. We are proud to be a low cost and business-friendly community. We know if our businesses are successful then our community is successful. “Sticks in a bundle are unbreakable.” With these key organization principles we are also cognizant of the economy. We account for reduction in revenues by reducing expenditures.
I’d like to share a Danish proverb: “Life can be understood by looking backward, but it must be lived by looking forward.” The council, Staff and I will continue to be proactive rather than reactive. We understand that we work for those that live, work and play in the City of San Ramon to enhance their quality of life. We must never fear the future. We must change it! It is never safe to look into the future with fear.
Together we can – Together we will – Make a difference – Make a better community, and be proud that we’ve MADE a Better San Ramon. You may contact Mayor Wilson by email at: hawilson@sanramon.ca.gov
Business Book Club
Meets at 12:30 pm on the first Tuesday of every month. San Ramon Chamber of Commerce 12667 Alcosta Blvd., Ste 160, Bishop Ranch 15. 925-242-0600.
San Ramon Valley Newcomers Club Hiking Group
Meets every Friday at 8:30 am. Hikes are usually 2 hours and within 30 minutes of San Ramon. Info: Sharon, 925-735-8960.
Toastmasters Diablo View Chapter
Meets every Tuesday morning at 7:55 am San Ramon Community Center 2501 Alcosta Blvd. Info: Todd Westerlund, 925-242-0600.
Homeowner/Homebuyer Book Club
A place to learn, share, and discuss, First Monday of the Month, 6:00 pm, 3223 Crow Canyon Rd. (@ Camino Ramon), Second Floor conference room, San Ramon. To RSVP: 925-397-2093.
Stay-at-Home MOMS Club
1st Wednesday of every month. The MOMS Club of San Ramon, Danville, and Dublin are for stay-at-home moms in this area. A number of activity groups are included in the membership. Dues are only $28 a year. Info: Michelle Borrero at 925-639-9556 or minxy7399@yahoo.com
East Bay FIT is part of USA FIT, which prepares people of all fitness levels to RUN or WALK a marathon or half marathon using a proven 6-month training plan. Long group runs are done
together on Saturday mornings, and weekday runs are left to individual members. For more information, please visit www.eastbayfit.net or call 1-866-333-9828.
San Ramon Performing Arts:
Info and tickets: 925-973-ARTS
02/12 – 02/14: Defending Caveman
02/27 – 02/28: Active Arts Theater presents: Ramona Quimby
03/05: San Ramon Symphonic Band
03/05 – 03/07: Active Arts Theater presents Ramona Quimby
03/06: St. Patrick’s Day Concert FREE at the Front Row Theater
03/13: Symphonic Band Concert
03/14: Forbidden Broadway
03/19: Cabaret
02/19, Thursday, 6pm – 7.30pm: Practical Advice for Family Caregivers presented by Donna Kackman, RN, Visiting Angels. The best way to get help is to plan before you need it. Call Senior Center: 925-973-3250
03/05, Friday, 6pm – 7.30pm: Maintain Your Brain & Maximize Your Memory presented by the Alzheimer’s Association. An overview of Alzheimer’s and related disorders, their diagnoses, and the steps families and caregivers need to prepare for the future. Call Senior Center: 925-973-3250