Why are you running for city councilor, and what do you bring to the table that your opponents do not?
Earlier this year, our community enacted a recall of the mayor and three council members. Controversial efforts to create a road structure west of the power lines (and 137th) while bypassing community engagement culminated in this humiliating event for the city.
The King City Transportation System Plan (TSP) and Land Use Refinement has been developed over the years and particular portions of this plan have stirred much controversy.
In March, a letter alleging potential corruption circulated throughout the community and remains unaddressed by city officials. In June one of the RECALLED council members was reinstated. A lawsuit is pending over the legitimacy of this action.
This is a fiasco, and that is when I decided to run for city council.
I felt the need to provide my input based on my background in city government work over a 20-year period.
My tenure with Portland Parks and Recreation (1999-2011) instilled valuable management and budget development experience with the largest city in our state. I drew a paycheck from a large city government and learned how to adhere to the rules, limitations and benefits.
In Portland, Police, Fire and Parks create a triumvirate of services, independent but also linked through community engagement. I worked successfully across our organizational boundaries. These connections brought me in touch with economically challenged and ethnically diverse members of the local communities. This training has been invaluable in
recognizing the needs of ALL our citizens.
My management and budget exposure with the city of Portland laid the foundation for my consulting work with public sector districts throughout Oregon and Washington.
I have provided consulting services for the city of Tigard through Tigard Parks & Recreation and directly for the Mayor and City Manager.
In 2015, I provided a report detailing discrepancies being advertised in support of a Tigard Bond Measure for $34.5 million for the construction of a community center. This measure prematurely advertised an operator before the necessary vetting. A councilman attempting to accelerate the vetting process was exposed. The bond measure was defeated 3-1 and the Oregon Ethics Commission provided a ruling on the actions of several individuals responsible for the misrepresentation.
What is your #1 priority, and what are you proposing we do about it?
KING CITY is at a crossroads. We are poised for dynamic growth. As the King City Transportation System Plan moves forward, experienced leadership is a necessity.
Changes can be unsettling, especially after this challenging year. This is a VERY important time for transparent leadership, fiscal responsibility and moral character. We need to restore the credibility of the council.
I will apply the institutional knowledge gained over my years in government to inform the council and city manager on the best practices for implementing the direction and goals that shape our future.
It’s time for new faces on council. I will serve as an active member understanding the daily workings of city government and the realistic opportunities and challenges we face.
My experience will translate well to a position on the King City Council.
I would like to hear from you. Vince.arditi@gmail.com
