Why Mike is Running
Living in our community Mike has witnessed first hand the issues that are impacting Costa Mesa and feels with his background he can play an effective role in addressing them. Some of these issues include:
Homelessness
Presently, Costa Mesa is in the process of allocating $55 million to convert a Motel 6 to accommodate 88 beds for use as a homeless shelter, this works out to roughly $625,000 per room! The $55 million does not account for the operating costs after the conversion is complete. Although, Costa Mesa is compelled by State and Court mandates to address the homeless issue, this doesn't seem to be the best and most efficient use of funds.
Petty & Serious Crime
It is imperative that citizens feel safe in our community and to achieve that we must have adequate staffing and give clear direction to our law enforcement personnel that all crime in Costa Mesa is to be treated seriously. Proposition 47 increased the threshold of what constitutes petty theft and is treated only as a misdemeanor. An amendment to that Proposition will be on the ballot next November that could return some consequences to those who break the law and Costa Mesa and its police force should support these efforts.
Smart Development
As your councilman, Mike would want Costa Mesa to grow and prosper but it needs to do so with development projects that enhance the quality of life for all the residents. 1000 unit apartment complexes that create no “pride of ownership”, overburden already strained public services, and generate no long-term increase in revenues are not the answer. Mike will not be a rubber stamp on development projects that come before the Council.
Cannabis
The community is rightfully concerned that Costa Mesa is gaining a reputation as a “cannabis destination” city. Presently, there are over 22 approved conditional use permits, and another 15 applications in the pipeline, for retail cannabis locations. The proliferation of retail stores must be closely monitored and regulated, balancing property owners rights with the community’s desire to be a family oriented community which is not overrun by cannabis and liquor stores.
Fiscal Responsibility
On May 10, 2024 Governor Newsom released proposed revisions to the 2024-2025 State Budget in an attempt to address the State's recent budget deficit. His plan will reduce the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 budgets by $27.6 billion and $28.4 billion, respectively. This will necessarily mean that State Funds flowing to the City will be reduced which will require the City to adjust its budget. Hard choices and a plan to maintain the quality and levels of essential services will need to be made.