Affection & Gratitude
I can't even begin to express the deep affection I hold for Carmel-by-the-Sea. This charming coastal town has captured my heart with its breathtaking natural beauty, unique character, and close-knit community. Walking through our quaint streets lined with unique boutiques, art galleries, and inviting cafes, I am constantly reminded of how lucky we are to live in such an extraordinary place. The pristine white sands of Carmel Beach, the enchanting cypress trees, and the stunning sunsets over the Pacific Ocean never cease to amaze me.
Every day, I am grateful to call this gem of the Central Coast my home.​ But beyond its picturesque setting, what truly sets Carmel-by-the-Sea apart are the wonderful, caring people who reside here. The sense of community is palpable; neighbors look out for one another, and everyone plays a role in preserving the town's heritage and charm.
Local events, from the farmers' market to art festivals, foster a sense of belonging and bring us together to celebrate our collective spirit. I cherish the deep connections I've built with fellow residents, and it is this strong community bond that inspires me to serve on the city council. I am committed to protecting our town's unique character and ensuring that Carmel-by-the-Sea remains a place we are all proud to call home.
David O'Neil's campaign is committed to fostering community engagement and participation. We believe that by involving residents in decision-making processes, we can create a stronger and more unified community. Instead of spending $500,000 a year on consultants, why don't we consult with your residents who have a wealth of knowledge. Join us in our efforts to make Carmel-by-the-Sea an even more enjoyable place to live.
Our community is full of experienced, knowledgeable, wise and hardworking people that need to be heard. Please join us so that we can all benefit from each other's insights.
Enjoyment:
You deserve a council that listens, encourages dialog, makes everyone feel comfortable, and is dedicated to prioritizing residents' interests and ensuring city staff are held to high standards. With strength, kindness, experience, availability, and unwavering commitment to public service, I aim to provide you with service that allows you to enjoy your village with peace of mind.
Representation:
Beyond mere public meetings, it is essential to inform and engage citizens in decision-making processes. Decisions must be understood and supported by the majority to truly reflect a representative democracy.
Local Control Challenge:
I have been actively involved in safeguarding our local control since my arrival in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Instances of government overreach, like our Chateau project in France, (learn more) where higher levels of government disregarded local needs, have reinforced the importance of defending our community rights for me. It is disheartening to witness similar challenges in the United States, threatening the democratic ideals we hold dear. Upholding local control is key to preserving and revitalizing the foundations of our remarkable civilization.
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Local Control Solutions:
I present a plan to address this issue. I will explore the concept of Historic Districts, as endorsed in our current general plan. These districts, formed voluntarily by homeowners, can range from a few homes to entire blocks, empowering residents to protect our unique heritage step by step. Additionally, I am working with others on transitioning our government into a Charter City, a growing movement where other municipalities have successfully countered unconstitutional state over-reach.
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Dedicated Service:
Service to the community is my ultimate passion. If entrusted with representing your interests, I pledge to prioritize my time and energy to this role. Understanding the importance of listening attentively and doing thorough research, I commit to working diligently to provide you more peace of mind, and work for the betterment of our community now and for generations to come.
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Decisions:
Approaching decisions with a business and service mindset helps eliminate waste and establishes clear priorities. Despite the challenges of listening to diverse community voices, it is our duty to consider all viewpoints. While complete agreement may not always be possible, diverse perspectives can shape decisions to be as inclusive as possible.