Sausalito is Not Broke
Need better recording for video below.
Growing the Pie
I have a business background and have spent 25 years investing in startup companies, taking them from nothing to something. I know about making money and building enterprises.
Sausalito is not broke. The city's budget is almost always balanced, and even when there is a deficit, it's usually minor. Despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism downturn, and the 2008 financial crisis, Sausalito has maintained an emergency reserve fund, akin to an untouched emergency savings account. Our finances have been conservatively managed, and we are not in dire straits.
However, our current infrastructure does show signs of neglect—potholes, decaying piers, and rough streets. This situation is partly due to a hesitancy to invest in infrastructure, driven by a fear of our financial position. We can do better by investing in infrastructure over the long haul because we are actually in a strong financial position. Watch my video above to learn more!
My Accomplishments so far:
Generated over $1 million in interest for the City by transitioning to higher-earning bank accounts.
Advocated for a 10-year financial forecast tool to ensure long-term fiscal planning.
Proposed the City do a comprehensive facilities assessment as part of the 10-year forecast tool.
Advocated for assessing and including the assessed value of the City’s properties on the City’s balance sheet
Led the City Staff to uncover that the City owns 110 properties (compared to Mill Valley's less than 10), providing valuable resources for budget management.
Negotiated city leases with a business-savvy approach, increasing revenue for Sausalito.
Led efforts to raise parking prices and manage parking as a business, generating hundreds of thousands of dollars in additional revenue.
Initiated and led the decision to hire a finance director for the City, strengthening financial oversight and management.