Palo Alto is a wonderful community with tremendous resources at its disposal. But the city is now facing a serious budget crisis and needs committed, experienced leaders to take action.

That’s why I’ve decided to run for City Council, and that’s why I need your help.

As a City Council member, I will focus on:

STRATEGIC FISCAL MANAGEMENT.  These lean times offer an opportunity to maximize efficient use of our resources. Managing budgets strategically means implementing decisions now that will build the future we want. We must also extend strategic planning to encompass civic partners such as our school district and non-profit agencies.

HEALTHY LOCAL ECONOMY. To move forward, Palo Alto must attract and retain businesses that will benefit our community and help us maintain our high-quality city services. We need to encourage sensible, sustainable business growth and make it easier to do business in Palo Alto.

INFRASTRUCTURE REPAIR AND RENEWAL.  Palo Alto currently faces a $450 million backlog in delayed infrastructure projects. We need to identify sources of funding and ensure that our streets, sidewalks, parks, bridges and public buildings are properly maintained.

Over the years, I have served in many civic capacities, including positions on the boards of the Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce and the Palo Alto Recreation Foundation, and as a member of our town’s Public Safety Building Blue Ribbon Task Force. Most recently, I served as PTA Council president, a position that has given me extensive insight into the current issues facing our schools, including the need for  a closer partnership between our City Council and the school board.

My background includes more than just a proven commitment to community service. I also have decades of experience working in Silicon Valley as a marketing and communications professional. This means I know how to ask the tough questions and make the tough decisions required to resolve the budget deficit. My experience as a local Realtor means I understand our neighborhoods and how the quality of our schools defines our community. What’s more, my organizational experience means I know how to work effectively with City Council members and city staff to find solutions that will ensure our neighborhoods, schools and services continue to thrive.

My strong history in the public and private sector prepared me to take a seat on the Palo Alto City Council. I will be well-informed and my judgment will be based on analysis and with genuine concern for the needs and wishes of our community.

I hope I can count on your support and your vote on November 3rd. Together, we can create a prosperous, sustainable future for Palo Alto.

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BARBARA KLAUSNER

Vice President and Current Board Member, Palo Alto Unified School District