Issues

I believes that the strength of democracy depends on well-informed citizens who actively participate in government. My key priorities for Burlingame are:

Create jobs and stimulate the economy. I am helping to carry out the vision for our city in its new Downtown Plan and will continue to make Burlingame a business friendly community.
Cut costs and build reserves to fund future needs. Our City Council has dramatically reduced spending since 9/11 and has begun forecasting budgets over six years. We currently budget for only 2 percent growth in revenues each year and are banking excess funds for long-term needs.
Provide better transportation. As a member of the county’s Transportation Authority, I am helping to shape transportation for the future. I believes we should create a transportation plan that serves our city’s needs – not those of high speed rail. I am strongly opposed to any proposal that would divide our community.
Leverage resources with schools. I will continue to forge city-school partnerships to save money and maximize service to the public.
Encourage clean green projects that pay for themselves in energy savings. Our city won a national environmental award in 2011 for our green initiatives, but there's much more we can do.

Leaf Blowers Stir Up Strong Opinions

Why on earth did the Burlingame City Council decide to regulate leaf blowers? Some residents are extremely upset that a new city ordinance limits their use, while others are ecstatic. Learn why the council unanimously approved a leaf blower ordinance, effective July 1.

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Emergency Preparedness & Crime Prevention

The Neighborhood Network program encourages citizens to work cooperatively in neighborhood teams to prepare for disasters. In the process of getting better acquainted, neighbors are inspired to plan other events such as block parties and holiday get-togethers. Their sense of community fosters a “Neighborhood Watch” awareness that helps prevent crime.

To learn more, click on "more" or contact Terry at terry@terrynagel.com or (650) 347-3576.

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Support for Education

As a former PTA president and Honorary Life Member of the Lincoln PTA I have always been a strong supporter of schools and have helped on numerous school parcel tax campaigns, including many nights of phone banking.

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Financial Health and Economic Development

Our city's finances are in excellent shape. To bring in more revenues, we’ve been aggressively courting businesses and it's working. Between 2009-10 and 2010-11, our sales tax revenues have increased 28 percent and our income from our local hotel tax has risen 29 percent. A number of new businesses have opened in Burlingame, including Nissan.

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The Greening of Burlingame

There is overwhelming evidence that our planet is undergoing significant changes that may compromise the future welfare of our children and grandchildren. We need to begin acting immediately to reduce carbon emissions and implement more sustainable practices.

Burlingame has already taken significant steps to “go green.” You can read more about the city’s progress to date on the city’s website and see why Burlingame was awarded a national environmental award in 2011. There is much more to be done.

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The Sharing Revolution

In today’s tough economy, people are realizing that sharing saves time and money, helps the environment and creates lasting friendships. They’re sharing cars, bikes, tools, skills, gardens, tasks, clothing, housing, food, meals, loans, advice, child care, group purchases and much more.

Here’s what I learned at a conference on "The Sharing Revolution" hosted by Acterra last June in Mountain View.

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A Reality Check on How We Eat

We're all hearing a lot about America's obesity epidemic and accompanying increases in diabetes and other health problems. At a recent forum sponsored by San Mateo County, Loren Buddress learned that the basics of healthy eating are pretty simple. Read on to learn more.

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