In my last piece, I outlined a vision for a thriving Benicia—safe, lively, and inclusive. Now, let's discuss how to make this vision a reality. As your City Councilman, my priority is to break the cycle of structural deficits with a sustainable, long-term plan for fiscal discipline and economic growth.

Starting each fiscal year with zero-based budgeting is the first step, ensuring transparency for the staff, city council, and our community. Every expense must be justified to align with current priorities, rather than simply adjusting previous budgets. After establishing a baseline, we’ll adopt a priority-based budgeting process, guided by the City Manager’s survey of the community when the City of Benicia was promoting the March 2024 tax Measures A & B, ensuring we focus on what matters most to residents.

To maintain our city's financial health, we need diverse revenue streams. Inviting small-scale advanced manufacturers to Benicia’s industrial park can bring skilled jobs and diversify our revenue, reducing the financial burden on residents and fostering a more resilient economy.

Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy, and we must make it easier for them to thrive. I’ll work to streamline the permitting process and evaluate fees to make it more straightforward and affordable for businesses to expand, encouraging entrepreneurship.

Our aging population is a priority. I will ensure strong representation on the SolTrans Board to advocate for the transportation services our community needs. I will also champion affordable housing solutions for all residents, including seniors. This includes offering incentives like fee reductions for developers who include affordable units, streamlining the process for ADUs, and collaborating with private developers on mixed-income development projects.

Maintaining public safety and environmental standards is crucial. Companies operating in Benicia, including Valero, must be accountable to our community. I support using industrial safety ordinances to regulate public safety and health. However, I encourage everyone to review the comments from the Solano County Department of Environmental Management, which reports that the proposed Benicia ISO duplicates efforts managed under CalARP Program 4, which Solano County currently oversees as the Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) which the State Legislature created in 1993. I will objectively review the final draft from the City Council subcommittee.

By implementing these strategies, we can achieve a balanced budget and create a thriving, sustainable future for Benicia. With a proactive and disciplined approach, we can break the cycle of deficits and build a community where everyone prospers. Your vote is an investment in a resilient Benicia. I am ready to work tirelessly to make this vision a reality. I humbly ask for your vote in this election.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Lionel Largaespada
Candidate for Benicia City Council

This letter to the community appeared in the print version of the Benicia Herald on Wednesday September 25, 2024