Kari is studied and informed, respectful and fair

By Jarrod Slate, August 19, 2022
Mr. Slate is a Benicia Business Owner and a Benicia Planning Commissioner

As a longtime resident, a parent, a homeowner, and business owner in Benicia, I felt it was my obligation to become active in this small community, especially on major issues.

I really started paying attention to Benicia planning and politics when “Crude by Rail” was in front of Benicia’s Planning Commission. It was a subject I knew nothing about, but one that provoked a lot of feelings within the community. I began attending the meetings, with no opinion on the topic, and loved witnessing the process.

Many Planning Commissioners stood out to me during that time, with one of the main ones being Kari Birdseye. She came across as well studied and informed, which allowed her to confidently ask thorough questions. This is a great characteristic of someone in that kind of role, or higher office.

Fast forward to today and I now have the honor of serving with Chair Birdseye on the current Planning Commission. She continues to amaze me with her thoroughness in reviewing all material, her leadership skills, her overall respect to the public, their concerns, and the process. She is fair in her assessments, approaching issues from a centrist position, reviewing all the facts, and ultimately making decisions for the greater good of our small community. She has been a role model and mentor for me on how I want to conduct myself as a commissioner.

These are the qualities I want and expect in City Council, which is why I can confidently support Kari Birdseye for Benicia City Council. She will work hard to represent everyone and make decisions that benefit all Benicians, based on the facts that she has. As someone with personal interests in Benicia schools, sports, business, and property, I support Kari Birdseye for City Council.

Jarrod Slate
Benicia

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