My primary stance is that the City Council should be transparent and honest about their positions on important issues. Here are some major issues facing Livermore and my views on each.
I would like to see a beautiful central park running all the way from Livermore Avenue to L street, north of First Street. As I have discussed many times, I think this would greatly improve the city and help to keep the character of the city.
Discussions about the City Plan began about five years ago, and it’s time for Livermore’s residents to have a direct vote to conclude this debate. Although the city has held numerous town meetings on the subject, it has yet to act on the recommendations provided by its residents.
Help working folks by building low-income apartments north of Railroad and on old Nob Hill site.
We must do something about the cost of living for working folks in Livermore. Otherwise these neighbors will simply leave and the city will be left with only those who already own a home. We will not be able to attract young people, even ones with necessary or admirable skills.
Creating affordable housing in Livermore is a big problem and it demands big creative solutions.
I would love to help folks to buy that first house. Even with reduced rent, many families are trapped in so-called affordable rent while the dream of owning a home of their own rises further out of their reach.
I am in favor of Livermore’s Affordable Homeownership Program. But much more needs to be done. I would support converting so-called affordable rent apartments to condominiums. Use the same subsidies used to lower rent to lower home-ownership costs. Then the low income folks could protect themselves from our relentless inflation and build equity and not be trapped.
Bring responsible growth and high-tech industries to Livermore, while preserving small business opportunities.
I will encourage engineering, science and technology firms to come to Livermore. Livermore has a lot to offer, with its National Laboratories and other high tech companies right here already. A city whose economy is not growing is declining.
Our vineyards are protected by the Urban Growth Boundary, and it must not be threatened.
The South Livermore Plan as part of Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) has protected our stunning vineyards. Our district is the prime beneficiary of the UGB, as it protects this crown jewel of the Bay Area. I won’t let this be threatened.
Share the natural beauty of our region and support the local economy through tourism.
By encouraging visitors to explore our picturesque vineyards, rolling hills, and open spaces through environmentally responsible activities, we can boost local businesses, protect our ecosystems, and build a stronger community connection to nature.
California and Livermore in particular has been a magnet for highly creative and entrepreneurial talent. However, taxes in California are already much too high and are a detriment to encouraging and keeping the talent in the state. I will oppose any increase in taxes and with your help, look carefully at the budget.
Help make a difference by joining me for a transparent and honest government. Your support—whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading the word—will ensure that Livermore serves everyone in our community.
(C) Tom Soules for Council 2024
Paid for by Tom Soules for Council 2024, FPPC# 1473746
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