Q&A with Atascadero City Council Candidate Heather Newsom
Editor’s note: This is the second in a series of Q&A’s for all candidates running for Atascadero City Council.
Q&A with Atascadero City Council Candidate Heather Newsom
Where are you from, what is your background?
I was born in Denver, CO and grew up living in Fortuna, California. I have been in Atascadero for 3 years. Currently, I am in an appointed position with Parks & Recreation, for the last two years. I am a business owner of sixteen years and have an associates degree. I attended the Metropolitan University of Denver, and am an enrolled agent with a tax and accounting practice.
Why are you running for city council?
I thought it was the best way to make a difference in the community, and help shape the future of Atascadero for generations to come. I’ve been behind the scenes and in the community. I felt it was a good opportunity to make a difference.
How would you describe the job description of a City Council member?
You are the voice of your community, making important decisions for a balanced budget, looking at expenditures based on a community feedback and the general plan, looking at everything as a whole.
What do you want to change?
I would rather look forward to the future than the past, and improve on development downtown. The community and local residents have existing visions that we can go forward with based on their input. We need to maintain a family oriented community.
Can you comment on your ideas to solve any of these issues: Homelessness, affordable housing, water conservation, etc.?
I would look at the transient community to see how we can assist them, and aspects of mental health. We have self-help housing, and I think we should do more of it because it has worked out really well.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process in our city?
Having the community forum as we have, and the feedback at events on weekends and getting more people engaged helps. Speaking at social groups to get all the communities involvement and a broader range.
How do you represent the whole community?
By talking to a diverse group of people, I’ve talked to younger generations and older generations, by getting out there and talking to others at nonprofits.
If elected what 3 steps would you take to put our city on a firmer financial footing?
We need to look at all of the expenditures and look at the long-term goals for CalPers. Look at projects we have set up for improvement of infrastructure, and find the best cost approach. We need to spend taxpayers money wisely and look at the long-term plan and benefits. Bringing additional revenue in order to be more sustainable for the future.
What are the most important issues to you facing Atascadero?
Growth and development, bringing in additional development to better the community. We need to have a place to work, shop and live, and keep money earned in the community spent in the community.
What have you learned from the past experiences in your life that you will use to succeed in the future?
Being a business owner of 16 years, I understand how to make companies profitable, by drawing on experience with other businesses and being a good steward of the residences, working with other executives.
