Editorial: Connelley and Pope best for Oakley
Oct 28, 2010 | 1919 views | 0 0 comments | 12 12 recommendations | email to a friend | print
Oakley turned 11 this year, and the city with the small-town aura will be facing some big decisions in the coming years – decisions that hinge largely on Oakley’s growth and infrastructure and how the city amends its general plan. Oakley will need leaders with the vision, heart and determination to guide it toward the future, and The Press believes Bruce Connelley and Randy Pope are the best candidates to do that.

Connelley, a member of the City Council since 2005, is a tireless advocate and supporter of the community. He served as the chairman of the Almond Festival for 10 years, is a former Citizen of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and past president of the Delta Lions Club.

A man of his convictions, Connelley doesn’t hesitate to disagree with the majority when necessary, as evidenced in his recent objection to the Contra Costa Fire Protection District’s move to close two fire stations in East County. He has a keen understanding of – and affection for – the Delta and how current issues such as 2-Gates and water conservation affect our lives locally and regionally.

A new but welcome face on the Oakley political scene is Randy Pope, a candidate with strong ties to public safety and a clear vision for Oakley’s future. A police sergeant with the Oakland Police Department and the married father of two young boys – with a daughter on the way – Pope embraces the city’s agricultural history and small-town feel, but is also committed to creating local jobs and attracting quality businesses to town to help pay for Oakley’s roads, parks and other infrastructure.

He also supports the expansion and development of the 55-acre park on the old Emerson property as an attractive destination not only for Oakley, but all of East County.

Oakley is a community with a big heart, located in the heart of the Delta, and as such needs leaders who will guide with a heartfelt sense of Oakley’s past and a modern approach to its future. We believe Connelley and Pope offer both.

Oakley Councilwoman Carol Rios should be commended for her long and diligent service to the community and her ongoing support of Oakley and its residents. Candidates Joseph Klinge, Rodger McKeon and Paul Seger should also be thanked for their interest in serving the community, but we believe Bruce Connelley and Randy Pope are the best choices for the Oakley City Council.
Comments
(0)
Comments-icon Post a Comment
No Comments Yet
Postings are not edited and are the responsibility of the author. You agree not to post comments that are abusive, threatening or obscene. Postings may be removed at the discretion of thepress.net.