As the year draws to a close and the new year begins, it is always a time for both reflection of the past and planning for the future. I admit, I have much to be grateful for.
I live in a country that presents me with the greatest opportunities to speak and act and do as my conscience dictates, whether that be to voice a view different from the leaders of government or to pursue a career in business that many women in other countries are forbidden to engage in.
I am grateful for the men and women in our military who have volunteered to defend our country, whether in peacetime or in war. I am grateful for the generosity of the community in which I live, their donation of time and money to worthy causes, charities and those in need is tremendous. And, I am grateful for the love and support my family gives me to allow me to serve the citizens of Foster City.
We are indeed fortunate that current and former city staff and former City Council planned so carefully. Foster City for many, many years would always “tuck away” any surplus at the end of the year into a reserve account. As such, we now have a reserve to help us get through tough economic times.
Not many cities on the Peninsula can make that same claim. Somehow we have also made Foster City not only a great place to live and raise a family, but also a great place to work.
This December, we have three employees retiring. Between the three of them they total 93 years of service to Foster City: Jim Carey (25 years) Bruce Denton (30 years) and Frank Jaros (38 years). This is an entire lifetime of service spent in Foster City. We are indeed fortunate that we have such talent and dedication in our City.
What do I wish for in the new year?
A legislature in Sacramento that stops taking money away from local government.
People who do not run the red light at intersections (you cannot be in that big of a hurry).
General courtesy and politeness (being rude does not make you right or superior, it just makes you rude).
A sharing of the holiday spirit throughout the year.
Saying “God Bless America” without someone telling me I am politically incorrect.
World peace.
I look forward to another year on the City Council. I am excited about the make-up of our Council. I know that we will have spirited debates over many topics, but I also know there is a general respect each of us has for the other that makes for a good working relationship.
Tough decisions will have to be made to address the financial downturn in the economy and some of those decisions may be unpopular. However, I know that the members of the City Council and the staff of Foster City always do their very best.
I wish each and every one of you a happy healthy and prosperous new year!
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