My name is Jody Thomas, and as you may know by now, I am running for Calabasas City Council.
I have lived in Calabasas for almost twenty-five years. My daughter is a product of our public school system, graduating from Calabasas High as valedictorian. I am a small Calabasas business owner, recently winning an Emmy award for my work as a foley artist.
Since the beginning of Cityhood, I have been an avid volunteer in my community, schools, and local charities. I have been actively involved in protecting the quality of life issues in this city that make it a special place to live. I believe that it is time to bring a fresh perspective and assure that EVERY resident is represented and has a voice at City Hall.
This election year, you will hear the same platform coming from the other three candidates with little variance. What sets me apart from them is that I am also proposing specific programs to pay for our shared ideas and to ensure accountability in the city's coffers. It's your money, we have had better spend it wisely and with purpose.
Currently, our Chief Financial Officer (CFO) reports to the City Manager, leaving loopholes in the transparency of how our city's finances are managed.
If elected, I will advocate for the restoration of the previous checks and balances system, where our city's CFO reported directly to the Council. This ensures that both the CFO and the Council will be held accountable for money spent and how it is reported to the public. As our reserves have been consistently dwindling over the past eight years, I believe it is important to revert to the clear, concise, and transparent reporting methods of our City's more financially fruitful years.
Sincerely,
Jody Thomas, Candidate for Calabasas City Council
