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She even taught elementary school for more than 18 years in the
LA: What made you decide to run for city council?
NK: I love our city, and as a 30 year resident I feel a civic obligation to do everything possible to ensure that the wonderful quality of life my family and I have enjoyed continues for future generations. My husband Jim is a lifelong resident, and both of our sons, Kevin and David, grew up in
The residents deserve a voice on the Council who will speak up for their interests. I have a clear and positive vision for building on our wonderful legacy in
LA: If elected into office, what 3 things are on top of your agenda list?
NK: First, we need to bring our spiraling utility and water rates under control. We need a blue ribbon commission of residential advocates to keep the residents informed of all actions. When I was Mayor, we lowered trash rates by 15% by working closely with the Public Works Commission, but this savings was never reflected on our Utility bills. That has to change.
Second, we need to support our school board regarding the proposed METRO subway route, and make sure that a METRO tunnel does not go under our only high School. There is no margin for error if something goes wrong. We will not know the ramifications until the project is done, and then it will be too late. The City has accepted the
Third, I would like to ensure that the residents, businesses and property owners of our city have full transparency and fiscal accountability at City Hall. This can be done with a line item budget that shows all the money going in and out; with no separate books for unfunded liabilities.
LA: You have experience in the political arena, what have you learned about politics since you first forayed into the arena?
NK: People do not always tell the truth; they have hidden agendas that influence their voting. As a result, they don’t represent the constituents who elected them, just their own special interests. I won’t sit with developers and try to negotiate with them. The developers work on a project for 3-5 years, then a council member thinks he/she can outsmart them in 12 hours of negotiating. My philosophy is give me your best deal, then I will see if we want it for the City.
LA: You have a multitude of years working as a school teacher. Can you share with our readers how that experience has shaped you as a person?
NK: It has taught me understanding, compassion and how to deal with people when they are totally frustrated. Most individuals think that it is a done deal at City Hall. Not for me! I never make a decision until I have heard all the facts. Frequently, that frustrates the advocates for a project; but the truth is full review of complex issues requires hearing all the facts and evidence first at an open public hearing.
LA: What have you been hearing from residents in regards to what they want the
NK: There is great concern over the expenditures of money. Residents and business leaders feel we have over paid staff and allowed City rates and fees to spiral out of control. The voters also want secure funding and an ironclad JPA to ensure schools stay strong. Residents want a greater police presence in the City and want to keep our fire department vital and responsive. There is concern over police and fire department pensions as well, and the next Council will have to address that issue.
LA: Can you share some ideas that you have to increase development of businesses in the city?
NK: I want two hours of free parking in almost every lot in the city. It is a small price to pay for a large return on our investment. It increases sales because people are not worried about getting tickets, and the traffic flow eases because they are not circulating on narrow streets looking for parking.
We also need to work with our retail business community to help them make the transition from a “brick and mortar” business environment to a “click and mortar” world, while ensuring that future growth is consistent with the traditional village character of our city.
LA: Can you share with our readers something that people may be surprised to learn about Nancy Krasne?
NK: I grew up in a trailer park, until grade school. My parents were of modest means, and I helped to pay for my own education by having jobs as a sales girl at Fedway, in Westwood, Robinson’s, and at the Telephone Company as an operator. I worked my way through school and married my college sweetheart at UCLA.
LA: If you were not running for office or teaching, what career path may you have taken?
NK: I don’t know I love what I do. For me this is a passion. It certainly isn’t about celebrity status, as my husband Jim and I lead very quiet lives and I’m not keen about getting my picture in the paper. Who wants to see themselves age, get gray or fat over a period of time? Certainly, not me.
LA: You previously held the position of Mayor of Beverly Hills. What did you learn about yourself and the city of
NK: I was humbled by the position. I knew I had great common sense, but being Mayor requires a multitude of talents, including smart public relations skills, so it was a growth experience. I live under a lucky star.
LA: Residents are heavily concerned about the MTA proposition to tunnel under the BHHS. What is your stance on that issue?
NK: I have stood shoulder to shoulder with our school community and the BHUSD Governing Board from day one in opposition to this dangerous MTA tunnel. Under no circumstances will I support it.
The DOD labels all METRO’s as a terrorist target; if it is routed directly under our high school and into
They wouldn’t want or put the METRO under the
LA: How important is it for residents to head to the polls on Tuesday, March 5, 2013?
NK: Voting is a privilege and also a civic duty. How can we complain about anything if we are not willing to vote? The Council Candidates represent the residents. If you don’t vote for a like minded individual who is in harmony with your wishes, you are not being fair to yourself.
LA: When you think of the city of
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