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By Jerry Pentin

This election is very important to the future of Pleasanton, as it will bring significant change to the city council. We need strong leadership to help sustain the healthy, safe and vibrant community that we all enjoy.

Since moving to Pleasanton more than 21 years ago, I've served on a variety of commissions and advisory groups, including my current role as chair of the Pleasanton Planning Commission. Previously, I was a Pleasanton Parks and Recreation Commissioner for six years, including time as chair. I also served on the Callippe Golf Course Committee and our group was honored with the Mayor's Award in 2005.

I've had the honor to serve on the Firehouse Arts Center and Veteran's Building Renovation and Rededication committees, and I helped see the Val Vista Park, Alviso Adobe Park and the Bernal Community Park Master Plan to fruition. I also served on the Kottinger Place Redevelopment Task Force and I was an early supporter of the extension of Stoneridge Drive and the annexation of Staples Ranch

I am a 28-year member of Rotary and Past President of the Pleasanton North Rotary Club and was honored as Rotarian of the Year in 2007 and 2011. As a local business owner, I've supported non-profit agencies and youth organizations and was the recipient of the Pleasanton Chamber of Commerce's "2010 Excellence in Business" Award.

Our city faces many challenges in the years to come. One of my top priorities is to ensure that future pension requirements for our city employees are sustainable for the future. And I see many opportunities to continue to improve our quality of life in our community through the East Pleasanton Specific Plan, the redevelopment of Kottinger Place and future phases of Bernal Community Park.

We need to make sure we have experienced, qualified people on the city council to make tough decisions on these issues and more. I encourage you to learn about all the candidates who are running for city council this year. I'm confident you'll find that I'm the most qualified and experienced person on the ballot.

Pleasanton is a very special place and I believe my family is blessed to live here. I'm running for city council because I want to ensure that future generations will have the same incredible memories and opportunities that we have enjoyed. I would be honored to serve as your city council member.

For more information, visit Jerry Pentin's website at www.Pentin.com

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