Please, please, please can't we get someone to run against Mayor Thorne, who has been less than forthright in his dealings on Costco? One or two more people not in the "good old boy/girl network" that has been running Pleasanton for the past decade or so would be very welcomed too! They just aren't listening to what people want.

I fully agree with "perrymac"...please some one please jump in and help
Pleasanton get back to reality and true honesty as a new Mayor. God help us !

Perrymac and Tom, there is nothing stopping one of you to pull papers and run for Mayor. If nothing else, running for mayor will allow you to be at the debates to get alternate views out there and challenge the status quo. The filing fee is pretty low unless you want a ballot statement as the county REQUIRES you to pay for translating your statement into multiple languages, even if you do not want that. Not much time left but go to the City Clerk's office to get the filing info and then catch up with some friends and/or coffee shops to collect your signatures. Let people know that the signatures get you on the ballot. They do not imply an endorsement.

You do not have a right to complain unless you step or or support somebody else. That is how representative democracy works; especially at the local level. As a piece of advise, you will find many people who have been in office before or involved in city issues that will be willing to advise you if you wish. The only qualification for this job is that you care about Pleasanton.

I fully agree with all that has been said. A person who really cares about Pleasanton is all that is needed. There are plenty of wise people within the community to help with advice and to govern.

I agree that the "good old boy/girl" network has been in charge too long. We need a change!

Competition and fresh perspectives are important for democracy to work. We need both in Pleasanton!

I first admit that I know little about politics. Pleasanton politics, from what little that I've learned, is controlled by a small group of people:
1) this EDGR group that meets today seems very influential and is making plans for our future direction
2) the Chamber of Commerce is very powerful, and makes many political decisions
3) the media, Pleasanton Weekly, seems to always side with the City Manager and Mayor

This blog I hope leads to some truthfulness about who runs our city and how it is run. It does not seem to be for the will of the citizens. Costco is a good example. Who was asked? When opinions were given, who listened? Missing minutes from April 12 meeting. Audio erased , or only partially recorded. What are the taxpayer dollars being negotiated to benefit Costco? No one will tell us.

We need a change. Young : old... Just an honest person who loves the City and is TRANSPARENT. One who does not use influence on an issue while having a conflict of interest. One who can stand up to the "good old boys/ girls" and listen/represent the citizens.

Change is definitely what we need! Someone who cares about Pleasanton and what the citizens of Pleasanton want is what we need. Not someone who only cares about what's best for their own portfolio.

Let's forget politics and look for someone with integrity. Honesty, dedication and a genuine care for the future of our community is what matters. Experience always helps when it is not misguided or narrows one focus on possible options. Greed and ego are standing in our way!

I agree competition is healthy and I wasn't intending to defend the major. After the mob scene at the tennis court debate and subsequent punt to staff by the council, I'm not sure I'm inclined to vote for any incumbent. Having said that I'm feeling that the small friendly town I moved to and raised two boys has become a lot less friendly and a lot more about whats good for me and I could care less about you. Probably time to move on. I'm just not a big City type.

GOOD RIDDANCE!

Thanks Michael. I had a feeling you would have something kind to say.

I want to learn more about Matt. I think we need a change of direction.

PW, can you tell us who filed by the deadline today? I am hoping the school board had some throw their hat into the ring. The two members running for reelection ran unopposed four years ago, I'd like to see them have some opposition.

Non incumbents have until end of business Wednesday August 17, 2016 to fie for an office. I have talked to a few people, asked them to consider running for the PUSD Board. I believe one of them will before the dead line.

I too would like to see three new people on the school board.