Statement by Daniel Harney: Gilroy City Council candidate

Published in the October 5 – 18, 2016 issue of Gilroy Life

By Daniel Harney

Paul Harney

I am a 41-year-old father of three children (8, 7 and 3 months) and I want the very best for them. This includes providing them a safe and secure community, a strong education system, and an appreciation for the environment in which they live. That’s why last January, I chose to apply for the open position on the Gilroy City Council and was selected to serve a nine-month term.

In my time on council, I have led a number of important initiatives to improve our city, quality of life and our environment. I am an avid supporter of revitalizing our downtown, strengthening our economy and leading Gilroy in environmental sustainability efforts. I have successfully represented Gilroy on a number of regional issues. Recently, I helped Gilroy secure $5.5 million from VTA to repair First Street and I supported a $2.8 million investment for our road maintenance program. I brought clean energy to Gilroy to save money, reduce greenhouse gases and secure public transportation funding.

Like most cities, Gilroy has issues with development, land use and growth. Should we grow to the north or to the south? Should we increase our supply of land for industrial development, or should we limit our city boundaries and promote compact growth and infill projects? Measure H will determine how those decisions are made, our path forward and how we grow. Our town is going through an important transformation and we need to continue our path forward by finalizing our 2040 General Plan update.

One thing we can all agree on is that we value our agricultural land, our green spaces and the views of our scenic hills. We all want a better downtown that attracts families and visitors to enjoy dining, entertainment, arts and our local businesses. Whichever the outcome of Measure H, I will support the decision.

Many people have asked why they should vote for Daniel Harney. My answer is simple. I represent new ideas, trusted leadership and connected communities. I will bring clear thinking and collaboration. I want to put Gilroy in a position where we can improve our city services, start the modernization of our city and position us as economic hub which serves Silicon Valley, the central valley, and the central coast. My website is HarneyForCouncil.com.
I respectfully ask for your vote this coming election season.