It is my privilege and honor to serve Pleasanton. I would like to share some thoughts as I finish my eight years as your councilmember.
Pleasanton is a beautiful place. I think about this as I drive through the streets. Some accomplishments are apparent and some people take for granted. But it is clear to me that the city has had good leadership and I have been able to contribute only because I have stood on their shoulders. I hope that I have left Pleasanton better for my service.
The residents really care. I walk the streets and see the parents of my children’s friends. I hear people talk with passion about things important to them. Every issue, small or large, has some impact. I appreciate the conversations with those with whom I agreed and those with whom I did not. I tried to keep an open mind. I am thankful for every person who reached out and those that cheered us on from home each Tuesday.
The city staff is professional. They have a difficult job, from balancing what they know to be the most reasonable way to ensuring that the response to residents takes care of issues to recommending good policy in a politically charged atmosphere. I have seen staff members go to great lengths to help when most reasonable people would think that it is outside of their job description. They truly care about this city. I am thankful that I could count on their professionalism.
Pleasanton is safe. Thanks to Fire and Police, we are among the safest cities. Every time I hear a siren I realize that our safety personnel are working to keep us that way. I think of their safety and health each time I know they are called to service.
Good government is hard. I taught government for 30 years before I took office and thought I knew. I was not prepared for how hard it can be to tell someone no, or for that matter tell someone yes and know that the ramifications are not optimum for other parties.
As an individual, one has the luxury of promoting the good of one neighborhood without regard to another. As a councilmember, there is no luxury in that. There were times when none of the choices presented to us were good, but a decision had to be made with the entire city in mind. I tried to do the best I could based on the law and the Constitution.
Finally, I feel deep gratitude that the people of Pleasanton allowed me to do this. I love Pleasanton. Service comes in many forms and very few get to do it to this degree. I have been able to apply what I teach. Few teachers can say that, and I do so with pride. I cherish this experience. Thank you for allowing me to serve you in this special way.
* Editor’s note: Cheryl Cook-Kallio was first elected to the City Council in 2006. She is a 28-year resident of Pleasanton, where she has raised four children with her husband, John. She teaches AP Government, AP United States History and coaches a We the People Competition Civics Team at Irvington High School in Fremont.
