About Peter:

Why Should You Vote For Me?

I have been actively involved in advocating for our local community over the last several years and I look for ways to be a force for positive change in our area.  Six years ago, Supervisor Miley suggested that I attend his Eden Area Livability Initiative (EALI) workshops, and it taught me a great deal about the local infrastructure and processes.  During the EALI process, I grew to appreciate the organizations and people that make our lives special, and none do this better than H.A.R.D. 

I admire how H.A.R.D. is a great partner for our community and how they find ways to improve our lives.  I joined their Citizen’s Advisory Committee (CAC) because I wanted to work with HARD to advocate for my community.  When my final term expired, it was suggested that I apply for a spot on their Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC).  In 2016, the community passed Measure F1 with almost 80% approval, and this raised $250,000,000 for the District improvements, programs, and facilities.  My role on the HARD CBOC allowed me to dive into the financials, the projects, and how the money was being spent.  This further affirmed my belief that H.A.R.D. is the best example I have seen of how a Community Services District should function.

If elected, I will continue to grow the collaborations between H.A.R.D. and local agencies to increase recreational opportunities in this community where land/facilities are scarce.  These partnerships between public and private agencies are what sets H.A.R.D. apart.  Ashland Commons, Mia’s Dream, and the Cherryland Community Center are just some of the recent examples of how H.A.R.D. has collaborated with other agencies to stretch our dollars to make the projects successful, as well as cost effective.

I am a person who focuses on solutions that will improve our community’s access to great facilities and programs.  Over the last 75 years, H.A.R.D. has built a strong reputation.  I want H.A.R.D. to be a success for the next 75 years, and I will work hard, to keep this promise.

Leadership Experience

SOME of the recent leadership organizations and Committees that I have served on:

• H.A.R.D Citizens Advisory Committee (2014-2018) – Reviewed and offered feedback on updated signage for all H.A.R.D. Facilities. Participated in the discussion of ongoing and prospective projects for the HARD community including: Mia’s Dream, Mission Hills, The San Lorenzo Community Park, the Cherryland Community Center, and misc. Dog Parks.
• H.A.R.D. Bond Oversight Committee (2019-2020) – Has responsibility to review and examine the budget, expanses, timelines, of various projects that are affected by the Measure F bond funding.
• Castro Valley/Eden Area Chamber of Commerce (Vice-President 2018, 2019, 2020) – Helped draft updated mission statement and draft long term strategy for Chamber of Commerce. Helped with budget and agreements with Alameda County partnerships. Helped to plan, promote, and staff various outreach events.
• Chair of the CV/EA Economic Committee (2019, 2020) – Reviewed prospective projects, and provided information, advocacy, and feedback to improve the business and community.
• Chair of the Castro Valley Fall Festival (2018,2019) – More than 50,000 people attend this wonderful community event each year. Over the last two years, our revenue has increased by more than 250% due to successful partnerships and community engagement.
• Leadership Hayward Class of 2019-2020 – Learning and engaging with government and business leaders in the community. This outstanding program develops leaders knowledgeable about the greater Hayward area and prepared to address complex social and economic issues.
• Eden Area Livability Initiative (2013-2020) – Active leader in the Economic Development, Agriculture/Environment, and Governance Groups. Helped advocate for the creation of the Eden Area and Fairview Municipal Advisory Commissions. Helped to developed a budget advocate for Alameda County to increase transparency and resource allocation for the unincorporated community. Participated in and helped with “Ag Day” where over 1,200 3rd graders come to the HARD Rowell Ranch Rodeo Grounds to learn about agriculture, parks, native plants, and ranching.
• California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA) – State Board of Directors (2016-2019) responsible for membership programs, budget review, bylaw adoptions, and many untold leadership tasks.
• CLCA East Bay Chapter President (2014, 2015) – Developed successful membership programs, educational, and business development programs to elevate the landscaping industry. Was a speaker at Bay Area Water Conference, helped to judge Nor-Cal Flower and Garden Show, and represented the CLCA Board at various local events.
• Castro Valley Matters (2013-2018) – Co-founded and developed mission statement, bylaws, and processes for local non-profit community organization united to make our community a better place.