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Retired Pleasanton police captain Craig Eicher, who also worked a stint as the city’s interim police chief, has thrown his name into the race for the upcoming City Council District 2 election this November.
“I am honored to run for City Council to serve the residents of Pleasanton,” Eicher told the Weekly this week. “Our community deserves transparent leadership, responsible development, and innovative solutions to the challenges we face. I am committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure Pleasanton remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”
He will be running against current District 2 Councilmember Valerie Arkin, who announced she will be running for a second term last month. No other candidates have come forward for the seat to date.
Eicher said in a May 31 press release that as a retired police officer who not only spent over three decades on the force, but also served as the city’s interim police chief, he has the experience combined with a fresh perspective needed to address key issues.
Eicher started off his career in law enforcement in 1989 when he volunteered as a reserve police officer before getting officially sworn in to the Pleasanton Police Department in 1991.
He officially retired as a captain in 2021 — a tenure that included working as the city’s interim police chief for more than six months in 2019 and 2020.
During his time at the PPD, Eicher implemented programs such as peer support, the body-worn camera system and the city’s homeless outreach program, according to his press release. He was also involved in youth programs and community events in order to better foster the relationships between officers and members of the community.
When he was interim chief, Eicher had to lead the department during the beginning of the COVID pandemic, his press release noted.
“His exemplary leadership during challenging circumstances underscores his ability to navigate complex situations with grace and dedication, earning him respect and admiration from both colleagues and community members alike,” according to his press release.
Apart from working in the PPD, Eicher has had notable roles in the local nonprofit world. Eicher was the founder of the Pleasanton Police Officers Charitable Foundation and served as the Board of Directors president for Hope Hospice from 2013 to 2021, according to his campaign and his LinkedIn page.
He also currently serves as the president of the Pleasanton Community of Character Collaborative board — he has been on that board for the past decade, according to his campaign.
Eicher is running on a platform that emphasizes the need for transparency, fiscal responsibility and responsive public safety in order to run an effective government.
“Pleasanton is at a pivotal moment. Our city needs thoughtful, responsive leadership to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead,” Eicher told the Weekly. “I’m committed to ensuring Pleasanton advances a vibrant, safe, and welcoming place for all our residents.”
According to his press release, Eicher’s priorities will be addressing the city’s water infrastructure, focusing on the city’s sustainability and strengthening relationships with stakeholders such as the Zone 7 Water Agency. According to his press release, Eicher wants to focus on fundamental obligations rather than temporary issues in order to ensure a better future for Pleasanton.
“As a longtime resident, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities we face,” Eicher said. “Together, we can build a brighter future for Pleasanton by prioritizing our community’s needs and working towards common goals.”
More information about Eicher’s campaign can be found at www.EicherforPleasanton.com.
