Shannon O'Dunn: Fresh Vision for La Mesa City Council

La Mesa has changed in many ways since I attended Murray Manor Elementary in the 1950's. As housing, transportation and commercial development reshape our city, La Mesa must continue to offer residents quality of life for every stage of life. I will bring:

Sound Management

As Fine Arts Dean (2000-2005) and as a member of the Grossmont-Cuyamaca College District Citizen's Bond Oversight Committee (2007-2009), I have managed millions of dollars in public funds. I will maximize revenue sources and promote fair, effective use of scarce tax dollars. Bankruptcy is not an option for La Mesa!

New Revenues

As Grants Director for the Grossmont-Cuyamaca College District (1986-93) I brought in new sources of revenue from state, federal and international agencies to a public institution, Working with city staff, I will promote bold, imaginative, sound revenue-producing initiatives to secure La Mesa's future financial stability.

Future Vision

As Innovator of the Year 2005 (Grossmont College), and Alumnus of the Year 2000 (SDSU Department of Geological Sciences), I am a leader who brings people together in a collegial way for mutual benefit. La Mesa will be accommodating new residents, creating smart growth opportunities, and promoting the attractive, healthy, walkable, accessible aspects of our town. With input from all concerned residents, we can maintain the safety and character of our La Mesa neighborhoods, while controlling traffic, adding amenities for all age groups, and creating new revenue bases.

Regional Cooperation

Resources are best managed when other agencies serving La Mesa, in public safety, land use, transportation, health care, education, utilities, and parks and recreation have a healthy working relationship with our city. I support strong ties with overlapping agencies to maximize benefits and minimize costs for basic services and quality of life for all La Mesans.

Shannon O'Dunn for La Mesa City Council