Our greatest imperative today is to create jobs. Unemployment is way too high and unemployment benefits for those who lost their jobs are expiring. As your legislator, I will work hard to bring jobs back to our community.

As a former labor leader, I understand the importance of good jobs with good benefits. Conversely, I understand how difficult it is for employers to meet budgets, make a payroll every week, and provide healthcare for their employees.

Creating new jobs in a stagnant economy requires progressive thinking. We cannot wait for the economy to recover; Sacramento must find creative ways to invigorate the job market because a strong workforce is the heart of a healthy economy.

The jobs we create must be carbon neutral and safeguard our environment. Here’s one method: We can create jobs and transform our energy grid by providing tax and development incentives for residents and businesses to install solar panels, and to weatherize homes and commercial structures. I am one of the founding members of Solar Sonoma, a group working to “solarize” the North Bay. Every solar panel installed supports green manufacturing and installation jobs, aiding the distressed job market.

I am also Chair of the Accountable Development Coalition, which promotes green, transit-oriented development. Meeting the housing needs of our growing population and doing so in an environmentally friendly way will create jobs starting in the housing and construction industry without harming the environment. Local development is an invaluable tool to stimulate commerce, produce innovation and create jobs.

In the Assembly, I will support:
• Increased incentives to promote solar panel installation and local manufacturing
• New transportation options such as the Smart Train system
• Smart Growth Opportunities to spur commerce and development, while preserving the environment
• Cleantech Industries in agriculture, energy, and recycling