Politics & Government

Q&A: Steve Pleich

Santa Cruz City Council candidate.

What is the primary reason you are running for this office? I have been working with local nonprofits on a full-time basis for the last 3 1/2 years. It has always been my dream to serve in public office and now is the perfect time to make that transition. My primary reason is that I love my city and believe that I can make a difference as a member of the city council.

What will be your single most important priority if you get elected? Reviving the local economy with green building and energy independence; creating more jobs for local college graduates so that they can develop the next generation of ideas for Santa Cruz; improving public safety with a new model of law enforcement.

What sets you apart from the other candidates? I believe that I am the most intelligent candidate and the most creative thinker.

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Where do you work and what is your job title? I am a self-employed professional grant writer.

Party affiliation? Lifelong and ardent Democrat

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Age and birthplace? 50 plus; Albany, Calif.

What are the names and ages of your children, if any? N/A

Please list the schools and colleges you attended, the degrees you attained and when. Bachelor of Arts, University of Phoenix, 1985; Bachelor of Science of Law, Peninsula University College of Law, 1986; Juris Doctor, Peninsula University College of Law ,1990

Have you ever held an elected or appointed public office? No, although I have applied for several county commissions.

Have you run before for an elected public office? No

Approximately how much money do you expect to spend on your campaign, both total spending and personal. Somewhere between $1,000 and $2,000.

Have you ever served in the military? No

Have you ever been convicted or charged with a crime other than a minor traffic violation? No

Have you or a business you owned or had principal interest in ever filed bankruptcy? No

How long have you lived in Santa Cruz? 12 years

What's your favorite thing about Santa Cruz? Being close to the beach and the marine sanctuary.

What is the biggest problem in Santa Cruz? Failure to generate new leadership and new ideas in the community.

Contact information: spleich@gmail.comSteve Pleich on FacebookSteve Pleich for Council on Facebook


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