Three weeks ago, I had the honor of introducing the band at our summer concert series held at Leo Ryan Park. I did not think the attendance would be that great because it was the opening night of the Summer Olympics plus the 49ers were playing the Raiders in a pre-season game.
To my surprise, the amphitheater was nearly full. As I introduced the band, I asked the crowd if they were having a good time and of course, I heard a cheering “yeah” as a reply. I then asked if the people of Foster City would like to see the concert series extended in the future. The reply as you would probably guess was deafening. I plan to bring this great idea up for discussion with my colleagues in the near future.
Good ideas need to be acted on quickly. Too bad, it was not mine. The truth be told, a community member came up to me while I was walking to the microphone and asked why we can’t extend the summer concert series to 8 or 10 concerts since the weather actually gets better in late August and early September. Gosh, I wish I thought of that!
Earlier this year I, with the support of my colleagues on the Council, passed a resolution seeking postal autonomy for the Zip Code 94404. I sent the Council resolution to the Postmaster General as well as California’s U.S Senators. Somehow, the White House got a copy even though I did not send them one. Well the next thing I know the U.S. Post Office wished to meet with the Mayor and me to discuss a solution.
The solution was simple. We give them a list of all Foster City streets and addresses and they change the first default in their computer from San Mateo to Foster City without affecting San Mateo. Pursuing the Post Office to make this important change was a brilliant idea. Too bad, it was not mine although I wish it were. The truth be told, the idea came from two constituents who wrote to me on the subject.
I bring many good ideas before my colleagues, most recently, the idea of using vacant city owned property on Beach Park Blvd. for a community garden where residents can get a small plot of land and grow vegetables.
Most of these great thoughts emanate from you. All I have to do is avail myself to you the people and the ideas come forth.
Let us face it this town belongs to each and every one of us inhabitants. The fact that you elected me to office does not make me a wiz kid who can think of everything. I need your thoughts on important and less than important matters and I need to know how you view the issues I will be called upon to vote for on your behalf. I do not pretend to have all the answers but I will guarantee to you I will listen and not be afraid to admit I have erred. The truth be told the best suggestions and ideas I have received while in office have come from you.
I have taken a hiatus from my Sunday meetings with community members at the Council Chambers but I will be returning soon. Look for my sign in front of the library advising I will be in the Council Chambers on Sunday. The discussions are only limited to whatever you have on your mind. Hope to see some of you in the near future.
Once again, I thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve you. I can be reached at home at 650-349-2316 or jkiramis@fostercity.org.
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