Candidate Profile: Donna Baker For Monrovia City Council

MONROVIA, CA — There are three candidates vying for two City Council positions and three candidates vying for the Mayor position in Monrovia for the election on March 3.

Patch asked them to describe their qualifications and visions for Monrovia.

Donna Baker, 68, is running for a spot on the Monrovia City Council.

Age (as of Election Day)

68

Town/City of Residence

Monrovia

Office Sought

Municipal office

Family

Married to my husband, David, for 35 years.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No.

Education

AA in Liberal Arts from PCC.

Occupation

Realtor since 2001. My previous career was as an Administrative Professional for over 30 years.

Campaign website

DonnaBakerMonrovia.com

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

Appointed to the Monrovia Historic Preservation Commission in 1995 by Mayor Bob Bartlett. Served for 20 years.

The single most pressing issue facing our (state, district, community, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Communication. I intend to be the ears, eyes and voice of the community. I commit to office hours so anyone in the city can come to me with their concerns, ideas and suggestions.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

Ironically, we have a lot in common. We are all women, and we have all called Monrovia home for over 30 years. What makes me different is that I am inclusive! I support all organizations in town, from youth to schools to churches to preservation. I have a long-standing record of philanthropy beyond anything any of the other two candidates have done. I am not indebted to anyone for anything, so my voice is independent with only the residents at heart.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?

In my opinion, this Council falls down on its communication efforts. Only 1000 people subscribe to the City Manager's Report and the social media pages for the City are intermittent at best. We need the residents of Monrovia informed about all aspects of their community, including events, board and commission vacancies, power outages, and everything else related to our City happenings.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

The issues I am focused on include Housing & Affordability, Traffic & Parking, Fiscal Responsibility and Preservation.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I have run a successful real estate business for 30 years, serving as my own CEO, CFO & Marketing guru. As a previous administrative professional, I learned organizational, negotiating and social skills that will allow me to serve the people of Monrovia well.

If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office as a success?

Being able to communicate effectively with our residents on our fiscal status; further strengthening our Historic and Neighborhood Preservation Ordinances, and helping to turn Monrovia into a more energy efficient City.

Why should voters trust you?

I think the community sees that my heart and soul are invested in this town. My passion for Monrovia shows in everything I do and support.

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the use of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?

With the recent passing of Measure K in Monrovia, which had very low voter turnout, it is important that the taxpayers have a say in where their tax money is spent. I want to be sure that Oversight Committee represents ALL areas of Monrovia and is composed of neighbors from every area of Monrovia.

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family?

None right now.

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

From my Dad — he said I could be anything or do anything I want and I should not let anyone get in the way of my heart.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am passionate about Monrovia. While the incumbents are calling themselves the "dream team," I believe I can be an independent voice with individual thoughts. Healthy debate is good, especially when decisions affect to many people. I commit to a We, Not Me focus to help make Monrovia even better than it is already!

Related:

Candidate Profile: Melissa Taylor For Monrovia Mayor

Candidate Profile: Tom Adams For Monrovia Mayor