Office: Thousand Oaks City Council District 5
Name: Kevin McNamee
Website: VoteMcNamee.com
Current Occupation/Service: Doctor of Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Educator and Business Owner
1. Why me?
Over 38 projects have been brought forth to enhance our city during my three and one-half years as city council member and mayor. Priorities are public safety, water sustainability and reuse, homeless solutions that do not create dependency, and public-private partnerships bringing tutoring-learning centers to all students of every race and family income level are some projects I am still developing and wish to complete in the next four years.
2. Pressing Issues
1) Solution to the homeless crisis that provided a pathway forward to helping each become as independent as possible. The distributed model, housing first as funding required by the state, is not working. A bold, innovative approach is necessary. The homeless go to where the food and services are provided. Move these, and the homeless follow. A model to consider is to consolidate all county homeless services in one central Ventura County location where the homeless can receive their three meals plus access to social workers, job training and safe shelter.
2) We have had two years of rain adequate to fill our state’s reservoirs; however, the state has not funded and built significant reservoirs to meet the population doubling in the last 50 years. The city cannot rely on the stewardship of the state to address the crisis. We in Thousand Oaks have two options that bring our water management into the 21st century: stormwater capture and reuse and wastewater treatment and reuse. These two models can get our city over 60 percent independent from imported Metropolitan Water District water and reduce our water rates.
3) Housing for needed professions such as medical residents at Los Robles Hospital, nurses, teachers, firefighters, police, and city/county employees. These below-market rental units for these professionals are vital to our city. The challenge is our lack of housing availability and affordability. This opportunity allows a window of time for these professionals to save for a home loan down payment and purchase to provide the opportunity for them to become a permanent part of the city. As they move out of the housing into their own home, another professional moves in to continue the cycle.
3. Present Leadership
As a city council member and former mayor, the greatest challenge to accomplish many goals is the imposition of the Sacramento legislature upon Thousand Oaks and other California cities. Sacramento imposes solutions that do not fit with medium and small-size cities. We know how to address these challenges. If Sacramento would get out of the way, we can address many of our challenges facing us today.
I am very proud of the over 38 projects I have brought forth in my first term as the city’s council member to enhance the quality of life we enjoy.
4. What Else?
A proven record of bringing forth innovative solutions that do not increase taxes and do not increase the size of government or regulations while addressing challenges facing our city is my approach to government. We in the city council provided the framework for our Thousand Oaks residents to live and raise a family. The people of Thousand Oaks are the strength of our city, the Gem of California. We take care of our families, look after our neighbors and are involved in making our city even better. It is not found in other cities. The residents of Thousand Oaks should be proud of what they have accomplished and will continue to do so into the future.
Office: Thousand Oaks City Council District 5
Name: Brent Allen Hagel
Website: BrentAllenHagel.com/tocitycouncil
Current Occupation/Service: Voice-Over Artist
1. Why Me?
My background, values, and vision for our community uniquely position me to serve Thousand Oaks at this critical time. As a committed conservative and Christian, I hold prioritize family, faith, and freedom. I am dedicated to ensuring that our city remains a safe, prosperous, and family-friendly community for generations.
**Why Brent Allen Hagel?**
Community Roots: I have deep ties to Thousand Oaks; I was born here and have spent most of my life here. I understand the challenges and opportunities our community faces.
Proven Leadership: With a background in business and community service, I have demonstrated the ability to lead with integrity, transparency, and accountability.
Conservative Values: I believe in limited government, fiscal responsibility, and upholding the rights of individuals and families. I am committed to reducing unnecessary regulations and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. The tax dollars belong to the residents of Thousand Oaks. They must have a say in where they are being spent!
Champion for Families: As a father and husband, I am deeply invested in creating an environment where families can thrive. I will work to ensure that our schools are excellent, our neighborhoods are safe, and our local economy is robust.
Preserving Our Heritage: Thousand Oaks is a unique and beautiful community, and I am dedicated to preserving its natural beauty and historical heritage while responsibly planning for future growth.
**Why Now?**
Thousand Oaks needs strong, principled leadership to navigate the challenges ahead. We face economic recovery, public safety, and maintaining our quality of life
2. Pressing Issues
The most critical challenges we face include ensuring public safety, promoting economic recovery, and preserving the character and environment of Thousand Oaks.
Ensuring Public Safety
Public safety is the cornerstone of a thriving community. As your city council representative, I will work to ensure that our law enforcement agencies are fully supported and equipped to keep our neighborhoods safe.
Promoting Economic Recovery
In the wake of economic challenges, it is essential to support local businesses and promote economic growth. I will work to reduce unnecessary regulations that hinder small businesses and entrepreneurs, create incentives for job creation, and support initiatives that attract new businesses to our area. We need to reach out to corporate location specialists to market Thousand Oaks for company headquarters.
Preserving Our Environment and Character
Thousand Oaks is blessed with natural beauty and a unique character we must preserve for future generations. I will advocate for responsible development that respects our environment and maintains the quality of life that our residents cherish. This includes supporting conservation efforts, promoting sustainable practices, and engaging with community members to ensure that their voices are heard in development decisions.
3. Present Leadership
While present leadership has made some commendable efforts, there are areas where more could be done to address the pressing issues we face.
Areas for Improvement
Public Safety: There is a need for stronger, more consistent efforts to ensure that our law enforcement agencies have the resources they need. Crime prevention and community engagement strategies could be enhanced to build trust and ensure the safety of all residents.
Economic Recovery: The response to economic challenges has sometimes been slow and bureaucratic. Small businesses, which are the backbone of our community, have faced some obstacles in accessing support and resources. We need leadership that understands the importance of reducing red tape, offering incentives, and fostering an environment where businesses can thrive and create jobs for our residents.
Environmental Preservation: While some progress has been made in preserving our natural environment, more can be done to balance growth with conservation. We need to prioritize sustainable development practices and ensure that community voices are heard in planning processes to protect the character and beauty of Thousand Oaks.
Successes of Present Leadership
Despite these areas for improvement, our current leadership has made notable achievements.
Infrastructure Development: Investments in infrastructure have helped improve transportation and public facilities, enhancing the quality of life for our residents. Continued focus on maintaining and upgrading infrastructure is vital.
Support for Families and Homelessness: Programs and initiatives that support homeless citizens, families, education, and youth development have been prioritized, reflecting a commitment to creating a family-friendly community.
We must build on these successes while addressing where more can be done. As a conservative and Christian candidate, I am dedicated to bringing a fresh perspective to tackle these challenges and ensure that Thousand Oaks remains a thriving, safe, and welcoming community for all.
4. What Else?
Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated a commitment to serving others. I worked in Senior Living care before becoming a full-time Voice Over Artist. I believe that true leadership is about serving the community with humility and integrity, putting the needs of others first.
Strong Family Values: As a husband and father, I understand the importance of family and the challenges that families face today. I am dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing environment where children can grow up with strong moral foundations.
Proven Leadership and Business Acumen: My background in business as an entrepreneur has equipped me to manage resources, make sound financial decisions, and lead teams toward common goals. I will ensure that taxpayer dollars are used wisely.
Commitment to Faith and Principles: My faith is at the core of who I am, guiding my decisions and inspiring me to serve with compassion and justice.
I am running a self-funded grassroots campaign with no outside political influence or donors. I ask that you consider my dedication to serving our community with faith, values, and a commitment to making Thousand Oaks an even better place to live.