Steady leadership

He pushed for housing as a human right to be a cornerstone of the housing strategy and ensured that best practices from other cities be included to address systemic racism in housing, overhaul zoning, streamline permitting processes to support more diverse housing options.

To solve the housing crisis laid bare by COVID-19, we need innovation and leaders who understand the problems. We have to start looking at vacant buildings, open lots, and even church parking lots as opportunities to provide the basic comforts of home to our most vulnerable neighbors. Mostly, we need an empathetic willingness to understand and organize around the fundamental need of a shelter. Councilmember Brown continues to display this willingness and initiative, and we need leaders like him to bring the change we need to Vallejo.

— Emily Fisher/Vallejo

Robert McConnell has earned my vote for Mayor of Vallejo. Each of the candidates has assets to contribute to our town’s well-being. But I believe Robert McConnell is the most broadly prepared, consistent, and reliable leader for our council at this time. The challenges of 2020 and the near future demand a proven leader. We need a leader who can hold up under stress, consistently be diplomatic, work within the confines of the law, and offer strategic ideas serving the broad and long-term interests of Vallejo.

As a seasoned city council veteran, he has an honorable record of speaking out on issues that were not supported by well-monied political action committees. Such courage and values underscore his integrity and commitment to the people of Vallejo and not special interests. Without exception, he has been true to his words, following through on what he says he can and will do.

As context, I would remind everyone that no leader has all solutions to fit every problem. No leader can do everything in a term. Instead, leaders who listen, collaborate calmly and transparently, prioritize wisely, and understand that tough choices have be made, without interference from outside political influences, will do the best. As a resident, I have attended many city council meetings and community events. Robert always shows up prepared, informed, ready to listen, and committed to doing all he can for Vallejo. He is not just showing up now to “run for office” and then disappear, but has been a constant force for good in Vallejo. He is an exemplary servant leader. I am proud to support him for mayor, and the council in their work together as a strong team for Vallejo.