ESC has worked to encourage our neighbors to come out and vote as this is a very important local election. We have 4 out of 5 city council seats to be filled in this November 5th election.  Thanks to San Mateo Daily Journal and the question answer they have provided on each candidate to allow us a better idea of our candidates beyond the statement they submitted when they filed for their campaigns. More information on Bill Lock can be found on the SMART VOTER website HERE

These questions are directly from The San Mateo Daily Journal

Bill Lock
Age: 59
Education: B.S. in business, University of California, Berkeley; M.S. Tax, Golden Gate University
Experience: Wells Fargo ­ strategy, finance, operations and real estate; citizen advisor, SamTrans and San Mateo County Office of Education
Family: Married, three children
Residence: 22 plus years in South San Francisco

What measures should the city take to better downtown?

Bill Lock: Four Part Program: Attract new businesses to fill empty storefronts and buildings. Attract developers and investors to develop empty lots and buildings. City Council should co-lead the effort to attract new businesses, developers and investors. Support our local businesses ­ patronize and shop local program.

What can the city do to encourage use of the ferry terminal?

Bill Lock: Modify the San Francisco service: Add Saturday and Sunday (to enable South San Francisco residents to enjoy a ferry service). Introduce family pricing (enable the ferry to compete against SamTrans, BART and Caltrain). Develop a holiday service plan (Thanksgiving/Black Friday, Christmas and New Year’s).

Do you think the city has taken the right approach to development throughout the city?

Bill Lock: The city has had notable development success stories ­ biotechnology and housing. At the same time, there are opportunities to improve and strengthen our city. We need to focus on small businesses in downtown, high-density housing along El Camino and 101 corridors and mixed use commercial development in select areas.

What is one ordinance or fee you would like to see repealed?

Bill Lock: For existing residential building, I would repeal/modify building permit fees. I would like to encourage owners to invest in their properties. Residential home investment would create job opportunities for small businesses and individuals. It would increase the property tax revenues on a sustainable basis.

Do you think the city has made fiscally responsible decisions?

Bill Lock: Yes, the city maintains a solid financial base in light of the recession and a structural deficit (unfunded retiree health obligations). With signs of an economic recovery, we need to strengthen the city’s financial base by reducing underutilized real estate ­ empty storefronts, buildings and lots.

Candidate Statement