Candidate Profile: John Wright For San Anselmo Town Council

Municipal office

San Anselmo Town Council

John Wright

Age (as of Election Day)

67

Town/City of Residence

San Anselmo

Office Sought

Municipal office

Where appropriate, add specifics about office sought: i.e., State Senate District 1, State Assembly District 2, Temecula City Council District 1, etc.

San Anselmo Town Council

Party affiliation (not needed in non-partisan races, including county, city and school offices)

Democrat

Family

Wife (Ruth Kiskaddon), three adult sons (Adam, Peter, Thomas), daughter-in-law (Dongxue), granddaughter (Amelia)

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

B.A. in History, Stanford; J.D. Yale Law School

Occupation

Retired attorney (40 years of practice)

Campaign website

John Wright For San Anselmo

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

San Anselmo Town Council Member (2013-current); Trustee, Tamalpais Union HSD (2001-2013); Trustee, Ross Valley School District (1994-1999)

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

The single most pressing issue facing our community is ensuring public safety in the event of wildfires and other natural disasters. I am a member of our neighborhood FireWise committee. As a councilmember I will advocate that the Town partner with neighboring towns and existing neighborhood volunteer groups to ensure that all residents, in particular older adults, are prepared for emergencies and linked to neighborhood support.

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

I have 24 years of experience on public boards and a track record of results. Notably, I led the 15-year effort to build Red Hill Community Park, whose ballfield was named John Wright Field in recognition of my work.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

Apart from public safety, my other principal goals are (a) ensuring that the Town is age- and family friendly and vibrant, and (b) ensuring sustainable economic recovery of the Town's businesses in light of the COVID-19 crisis.

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

My successful service and re-election multiple times to two school boards (17 years) and the Town Council (7 years).

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

The successful implementation of a neighborhood emergency response group network throughout the Town.

Why should voters trust you?

I am known as a strong collaborator who gets things done with integrity and common sense.

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

I support the Town's adoption of balanced budgets, using excess reserves if available for long-term investments such as infrastructure improvements and reducing pension risks.

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

No

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

Don't be cynical about people or process. Assume that everyone has good intentions despite disagreements.

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

Please see my campaign website for more information.