Larry Schroeder, Claremont City Council candidate

My name is Larry Schroeder and I am running for the Claremont City Council. As you know, the election is on March 3rd.

I am running for City Council because everyone needs to give back to their community with the talents they have. I have a unique combination of knowledge and experience that qualifies me for the position and dealing with these difficult times.

I have twenty-six years experience in city government, nineteen of which I served as the Director of Finance for the cities of Glendora and Lakewood. I developed nineteen balanced budgets. I also bring seventeen years experience retaining as well as attracting new businesses to cities through economic development efforts which will help Claremont weather this difficult economic time.

I have a doctorate degree in Public Administration and teach a course in public budgeting at the University of La Verne. With my knowledge and experience, I can bring informed budget insight to the Claremont City Council and a fresh perspective to the important issues.
As a current member of the Community Service Commission, I have represented the interests of residents well.

In addition to addressing our economic issues, we must preserve our Community and its resources for future generations. Claremont's Sustainability Plan must be implemented and a monthly progress report given to the City Council to keep this issue in the forefront of our consciousness. We must also address water and electricity conservation measures, as well as reduction, reuse, and recycling of refuse for the Community as a whole.

Claremont should construct a practical, more efficient police facility when financing is available. This financing could come from State and Federal economic stimulus grants now being offered; the likelihood of obtaining a grant like this would be drastically increased if the project was "shovel ready." My preference is keep the police facility at its present location.

Under State law, Claremont must provide affordable housing. With my knowledge and expertise in this area, we can meet this goal with available funding and develop decent affordable housing that is appropriate to Claremont a reality.

We can weather these hard times, but intelligent leadership is necessary. I believe that I offer the knowledge and experience necessary to ensure that Claremont will successfully meet the challenges and remain the wonderful city we all know and love. I am asking for your vote on March 3rd. Together we can make a better Claremont.