Kathleen Shaffer

Background:

I am a founding member of DFA in Sonoma County. I went to Iowa and Nevada to help elect Howard Dean. I have worked to help elect many Democratic candidates from the Presidential level to local levels in Sonoma County. I have been a member of the Sonoma County Democratic Central Committee and have chaired their major fund raiser. I am currently the President of our DFA chapter and have served as the Vice President as well.
Community activities are and have been my focus. I am on the board of the following organizations: Palm Drive Health Care Foundation, Sebastopol Area Senior Center, Rotary Club, Rebuilding Together, and the Chamber of Commerce. I have been a business owner from 1992-2006 and am a former public school teacher of the hearing impaired. I have a Masters Degree from the University of San Francisco.

Goals:

I have been involved in politics most of my life and want to continue my community service as a city Council member. I want to represent all the citizens of Sebastopol by bringing decisive leadership to the City Council, by maintaining open communication to understand to understand the needs of the neighborhoods, and by encouraging community participation in our local government.

My priorities will be:
• Plan for the future sustainability of our city by building on its tradition.
• Work with businesses and community organizations to develop strategies for a strong local economy.
• Support our community hospital which will keep the delivery of health local.
• Advocate for a county wide water management plan and promote conservation of local resources.
• Create neighborhood volunteer groups to identify issues and to communicate with city government.
• Advocate for Seniors to ensure their needs are considered and support organizations providing services
• Explore opportunities to build more affordable housing units in the city.

Issues:

1. Work with businesses and community organizations to develop strategies for a strong local economy.
2. Advocate for a county wide water management plan and promote conservation of local resources.
3. Create neighborhood volunteer groups to identify issues and to communicate with city government.

Grassroots Support:

We are running a very personal and grassroots campaign. I have been developing support among our citizens by walking door to door and talking with our residents. At this time I have visited 80% of the households. We are asking for small donations to help with our expenses.

DFA Values:

As with most social progressives, I also believe that economic inequality causes most societal problems. By helping to change inequality to equality; most social problems such as crime, infant mortality, low education levels, and the lack of health care would be reduced. Fairness is a key value because it demands that every American be given an equal chance at economic success.
I believe all levels of government need to be fiscally responsible including the individual. We need balanced budgets.