Barbara Leary is one of six candidates running for a seat on the Folsom City Council this November, campaigning for the fourth district. As part of an effort to provide balanced and unbiased insight into each candidate, Folsom Times compiled a list of key topics and questions, many of which were submitted by residents who participated in the project. In total, more than two dozen topics were addressed by the candidates, offering voters an in-depth look at their visions and positions.
According to her responses, Leary has more than 32 years of experience in the area that she feels qualifies her well to serve on City Council. During her longtime residency here, Leary cited that she has developed a deep appreciation for Folsom’s rich history, natural beauty, and community amenities. Leary has served on various city commissions, including Parks & Recreation, Arts & Cultural, and Planning, which she believes have equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of city operations and the collaborative processes necessary for effective governance. Her commitment to preserving Folsom’s quality of life and ensuring its sustainability drives her candidacy.
Leary identified several key challenges facing Folsom, including the need for affordable housing, maintaining infrastructure, and fostering public safety. She envisions a vibrant city that addresses current traffic issues, promotes homeownership across diverse income levels, and enhances public spaces for community gathering. Leary emphasizes the importance of empowering residents to participate in decision-making and improving communication between the City Council and the public. Her focus on collaboration and proactive governance is geared to ensure that Folsom continues to thrive as a desirable place to live for all its residents. Below is Leary’s entire Q&A with Folsom Times:
BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE
Q: How long have you resided in Folsom, and what do you love most about the city?
I have lived in Folsom for 32 years. I moved here because of my love of the area including our Historic District, the access to Folsom Lake State Park Areas many amenities – the river and nearby trails, and the iconic gentle rolling, golden hills and oak forests.
Q: Candidates running for City Council have a variety of experiences in life and the city that they feel make them the most qualified to be on the City Council. What experiences do you bring to the table to make you the most qualified person to help lead our city?
I have an unmatched, broad range of experiences to bring to the City Council as a result of
working with residents, City staff, and many elected officials throughout my time in Folsom.
I have served on our Parks & Recreation Commission, the Arts & Cultural Commission, and the Planning Commission allowing me to understand how the divisions of City government work together, are staffed and funded.
I have clear goals in mind for keeping Folsom a viable and sustainable place to live, I know how our plans and guidelines are established and updated, the processes that are in place, and can identify future needs and goals based our changing population and my knowledge of what has worked and what has not in the past. I have continued to engage in conferences and educational sessions hosted by our city staff and other regional planning and governmental organizations and understand the constraints that exist in maintaining our
standard of living and options for growth. I know what it takes and want to continue to work to keep our community viable and sustainable.
Q: What motivates you most to serve on the Folsom City Council?
I want to ensure that Folsom is able to provide the lifestyle and maintain the healthy environment that brought us all here.
Q: What do you feel are the top three challenges facing Folsom that need the most attention?
1) Managing how we provide needed housing and jobs while maintaining a community that
has adequate resources and infrastructure including streets, schools, public safety, and
public amenities.
2) Ensuring that our income is adequate to fund the above.
3) Maintaining an environment that is healthy, providing various forms of active recreation
and more passive enjoyment of our natural open spaces.
VISION AND GOVERNANCE
Q: What is your overall vision for the City of Folsom over the next five years?
I envision a city that has effectively addressed the current problems that are now of concern. That is a marked lessening of current traffic problems, homeownership for a greater spectrum of income earners, and more vibrant public gathering places close to neighborhoods where shopping, dining, and entertainment can be sought for all ages.
Q: What will you bring to the table to make government work better for Folsom Residents?
I am a strong proponent of empowering our residents to participate in decision making. I have a long history of engaging my neighborhood in becoming better informed through dispersing information about issues that will affect us and seeking input. I envision more direct communication with each neighborhood taking place with their district Council member. Impacts that various changes may have on specific areas, whether it is new development, roadway projects, etc. should be presented in the early stages of a proposal to encourage resident input.
Q: What has been working well with the City Council in the past year that you would like to continue? What would you change?
I believe that the staff has been working hard to provide thorough, accurate information to the Council for their review to aid in their decision making. The Council has, at times, been able to provide direction to staff to gather more pertinent information on difficult issues before making a decision.
What has not worked well is the establishment of a more collegial relationshipamong the Council members resulting in the inability to work through some difficult issues during the Council meetings. I would like to see some skill development in handling difficult
discussions and conversations take place.
Q: You’re running for a seat on the city council where you’ll represent your district constituents and vote on many city-wide issues. Do you see a difference in issues affecting your district specifically, and those affecting another district that you’ll have to vote on?
There are some significant differences and some very common issues facing each district, some based on the age of the development, some are in locations along busier transportation corridors with more impactful traffic problems, etc.
Within my district, the parks in Natoma Station have many features – tennis courts, bleachers, playground equipment, etc. that must be repaired or replaced. Traffic control along major streets must be improved so that pedestrians can cross safely, and our sound walls and landscape strips must be addressed. In Willow Springs residents continue to be frustrated with the local park site which has been incomplete for many years, lacking a parking lot for a site used for ball games.
Broadstone has many long, wider connector streets where speeding is common.
Other districts, such as the Historic District face ongoing concerns with parking, especially during events on Sutter Street. Speeding and lack of traffic control continues to be an issue in Empire Ranch. And affecting many residents are the chronically congested intersections at Iron Point/Hwy 50/E. Bidwell. South of 50 residents lack local goods and services to date though planned for the future and the attraction and development of more of these amenities must be sought.
Q: What can the city do to be more responsive to the public and what role will you play as a City Council member to assure that Folsom is listening to resident’s concerns and is responsive to the public?
I find that City staff is consistently very responsive to calls from residents. Some inquiries are complex and take a good deal of time to sort out and it is helpful when a Council member is called upon to step in to help guide the way to resolving an issue.
Q: In your eyes, what is the role of the city manager in Folsom and what would you want to see in the talents and experience of an incoming city manager in Folsom?
The City Manager should take the lead on identifying the responsibilities of each department, ensuring adequate staffing to carry out those responsibilities, prioritizes needs and projects, and must be the lead on identifying budgetary and other needs for each department. The manager must also ensure that Council and various Commissions are well-informed by staff on issues facing the City, any situational changes, additional needs and demands that arise.
The new manager must have experience in a like-sized City, within California, which has met the challenges of dealing with existing communities with various needs, and while expanding its capacity for housing, commercial development, and employment. They should be able to demonstrate skills in managing staff and handing a broad variety of challenges.
PUBLIC SAFETY
Q: Obviously, public safety is a top priority in our community – police and fire. We still have fewer police officers in Folsom than we did in 2008, fewer officers dedicated to traffic enforcement and fewer detectives. Is this a concern and what can be done about it?
This issue has been addressed over the past year at a number of Council meetings. It is clear that there is a need for additional police as well as supportive non-sworn public safety personnel such as those with skills in dealing with mental health and domestic abuse. We must also be able to hire additional firefighters and EMT’s. An increase in the city’s income will be necessary to provide for broader coverage for both police and fire departments.
Q: Homelessness is on the minds of a number of people. What is your assessment on this issue and what should the city be doing to address it?
As a problem that faces many cities and the County, we need to work collaboratively in creating viable solutions. We are fortunate to have several organizations working locally such as Jake’s Journey Home, H.A.R.T. and Powerhouse Ministries who are successfully working to re-home and find mental health support. I am supportive of legislative efforts to create a JPA, as proposed byHoover/McCarty in the Assembly, with the other cities in our area and the County to ensure that policies are consistent. There should be no ongoing effort on anyone’s part to shift the burden of a homeless population from one jurisdiction to the next.
We also need to work collaboratively with the County to ensure that funding from the recently passed Prop 1 is available to broaden our local mental health services. Collaborative work must occur with county wide efforts to identify sites where the homeless can have a residence with an address, and be provided with necessary social support services.
Q: There are many people concerned about camps in some of the woodland areas and parks. Is that a concern of yours and what can or should be done to address that Certainly, there are many homeless people who would be willing to get assistance. What can and should be done by the city to help those who want help?
While the recent Executive Order issued by Governor Newsom allowing for the removal of
homeless encampments and the initiation of a H.O.T. team in Folsom, there has been some
reduction in the numbers of encampments in our area. However, until more short and long term housing and mental health care facilities are established within our region, we will see the encampments pop up along these corridors as the unhoused move from one city and area of the County to another. The city should continue to work with our volunteer organizations who are providing some housing and services and strive to work together with other municipalities as noted above.
Q: Proposition 36 on the November ballot seeks to increase penalties for certain drug and theft crimes, particularly involving retail theft and fentanyl. Do you support this proposition? Please explain your stance and how it relates to Folsom.
I support the tenets of prop 36 to provide for stricter sentencing laws for thieves and drug
dealers. I am concerned about the feasibility of the measures to offer mental health and
chemical dependency treatment to offenders while addressing the public safety measures that are necessary to ensure that drug dealers are precluded from continuing to dispense harmful drugs.
BUDGET AND ECONOMY
Q: What will be your budget priorities if elected, and how will you work to balance the city’s budget in the coming years?
The answer to balancing the budget is dependent on future income which will be affected by the passage or failure of Measure G to raise the sales tax in Folsom. I am committed to finding cost-effective solutions regardless of the outcome. I want to make sure that all departments in the city are treated equitably and receive funding that is critical to their efficient function and completing their missions.
Q: Measure G, on the November ballot, proposes a 1-cent sales tax to raise an estimated $29 million annually for police, fire, parks, trails, and economic development in Folsom. Do you support this measure? Explain the reasons behind your stance.
I am personally supportive of the measure and want to ensure that residents are well-informed when making the decision on their vote. It is clear to me, after reviewing the budget in detail at Council meetings, in private meetings with our City Manager and Budget Director that we have significant shortfalls that are affecting the City’s ability to address a broad variety of real needs.
Visiting our local parks, library, recreational facilities, and speaking with public safety personnel have confirmed the lack of funding needed to maintain the lifestyle “Folsomites” are accustomed to.
Q: There has been discussion about privatizing or forming public-private partnerships for city amenities like the Aquatic Center and the Zoo. What are your thoughts on this idea?
I am not in favor of privatizing our public amenities. Privatizing has the potential for reducing affordability for our residents, reductions in hours and amenities available, and rising costs as contracts are re-negotiated. Private public partnerships can work if the city is ensured full control in the management and goals of the facilities while the partner enjoys additional support for a private business.
Q: What specific ideas do you have to strengthen the business environment and facilitate economic development in Folsom?
A survey of residents and our business community’s wants and needs to establish goals for
recruiting new business would go a long way to identifying the kinds of businesses that we
should seek to locate here. I have served on the River District Visioning Committee which has identified a number of projects to enhance tourism along the River District corridor.
Q: Folsom has been home to large companies like Intel and VSP, some of which have faced financial challenges and staffing reductions. Do you have any ideas for how the city could transition these large facilities if this trend continues?
Early investigation into the resources available on site and the transitions which other
municipalities have successfully completed should be undertaken now in order to prepare for reaching out to the types of companies which would best fit into the existing facilities.
If major companies in Folsom continue to reduce their workforce, what ideas do you have to provide opportunities for displaced employees to remain in the Folsom community rather than relocating?
Completing the investigations, as noted, to identify future companies interested in re-
locating here would aid in predicting the skillsets that those companies will be looking for. There is potential for making hiring agreements with any new companies to keep existing residents employed and in town.
Q: Proposition 32, on the November ballot, would increase the minimum wage from $16 to $18 per hour by January 2026. Do you see this as beneficial or concerning, given current economic challenges? Please elaborate.
Given that current economic challenges are affecting lower wage earners, the fiscal impact on our business and residents is complex. While the lowest income jobs are often thought of as entry level and only for the young, many adults who are self-supporting and supporting a family find higher paying jobs unavailable for many reasons.The current $16 an hour wage amounts to an annual income of approximately $33,000 a year given the assumption that an employee is paid for a full 52 weeks per year.
The median household income in Folsom is approximately $135,000. Hence a family consisting of 2 adults who are earning a total of $62,000 if both are earning minimum wage, is earning far below the median income and likely unable to afford to live here and support their families without additional benefits which are likely publicly subsidized. Raising the minimum wage $18 marginally would still bring a family with 2 wage earners to $75,000, still far below the median income.
A higher income for low wage earners would also allow these individuals and families to spend more in our local economy. It is also clear that businesses will have to raise prices for consumers to allow for commensurate income to maintain their businesses.
Having lower income workers able to spend more locally can provide an offset in losses, though the amount of which is difficult to predict. In summation, the increase in wages would be beneficial in allowing lower income workers to live in Folsom and challenging for businesses.
TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION
Q: Many residents express concerns about traffic in Folsom. What are your ideas for improving traffic safety and congestion?
An increase in traffic patrols, particularly in problematic areas nears schools and parks and high flow arterials is warranted. Technology could play a role in assisting with reducing the tendency for drivers to speed and run red lights. Additional traffic calming measures are in order in many communities in town, such as round abouts, on demand pedestrian crossing signals are in order as well.
Q: City staff has reported that just a few years ago, Folsom had the highest rating for street conditions in the region – called the Pavement Condition Index. Staff also report that we are now 3rd and sinking quickly. Recently, the city also had to reject bids for a repaving contract as they came much higher than the amount budgeted. Further, the city is only able to invest afraction of what’s needed each year in pavement, curb, gutter and sidewalk repair. Millions more dollars are needed. Do you have any ideas on what should be done to address this problem?
First of all, some of these repair projects can be made possible with additional revenue but we must also look into grant programs at the State and Federal level with the assistance of our elected representatives to keep our streets safe. We must ensure the highest standards for street construction in all new development.
LAND USE, DEVELOPMENT AND PARKS
Q: The city’s General Plan has called for certain forward-thinking planning projects that are now in process, the Central Business District and the River District. Are those important to the city and why?
Both of these projects are important to re-vitalizing our older communities, and bringing more business into blighted areas. Tourism, alternative housing options such as affordable for purchase condos/townhomes can be income producing as well as creating viable walkable neighborhoods.
Q: The South of 50 portion of Folsom is obviously booming and we have many new residents. How do you see the city incorporating the residents of Folsom Ranch into the whole Folsom community so we don’t have two separate areas?
Given the location and division of the City by Highway 50, I see South of 50 as having its own
central business area where the growing community can enjoy amenities that are currently only available in the already developed areas of Folsom. However, it is important to have transit corridors such as the planned Empire Ranch interchange and walkable/bikeable trails to allow residents to participate in activities on both sides of the freeway.
Q: Folsom’s slogan is Distinctive by Nature, yet the city has not been able to put money into renovations in our parks and trails. Maintenance has already been significantly reduced in our parks and on our trails. What are your thoughts on that and any proposals to address these keyfeatures in our community?
Again, increasing the city’s income is key to repairing and maintaining our parks and trail
system. The city has benefitted over the years from active participation from local groups such as the Friends of Folsom Parkways, the Rotary, and the Folsom Athletic Association which remain engaged. Grant programs to provide repairs and increasing the organization of volunteer activities can be a starting point to address the “low hanging fruit” projects.
Q: City staff estimates that the accrued deferred maintenance costs in parks and recreation facilities is in excess of $20 million, and another $2 million just in trails. These are BIG numbers. What ideas to address this problem will you bring to the city council discussion on this topic?
Again, identifying grant funding for major repairs should be initiated. Additionally, event
organization with use of facility fees for organizations who would like to sponsor cycling,
running, or other large scale events could bring in income on a regular basis, especially if such events occur annually.
Q: With Folsom’s growing need for schools, the city has been working with Rancho Cordova, the School Board, and developers to discuss options, particularly concerning rising costs. As a councilmember, what do you believe is the best plan for addressing school needs, student welfare, and school safety in Folsom?
While the development of schools is under the purview of the Folsom Cordova School district, the city must actively work with the district and developers early in the planning stages of new communities. More flexible use of educational facilities and re-purposing of some sites can be part of a solution to address some needs. I believe our schools are safe. Student welfare and equitable treatment of all students regardless of individual differences must be addressed as a part of seeing to the welfare of all students.
Q: Additional topic: If there is something you feel is important regarding an issue we haven’t asked about, please share:
Folsom is faced with a proposal to expand our city limits South of the existing S-50 plan area to add another 4,000 homes. With finite resources such as water, existing roadway capacities and budget constraints for public safety, maintenance costs, and amenities such as parks, moving forward with this plan will compromise the City’s viability. Development should occur in an orderly process and be directed by the City’s needs, consistent with the goals of being financially solvent and sustainable.
LOOKING TOWARDS AND BEYOND ELECTION DAY
Q: In the event that you are not elected, do you expect to remain involved in city affairs? If so, in what capacity?
I have been involved and engaged as a community organizer and volunteer for over 30 years, I do not expect my involvement to change.
Q: If a voter has not learned enough about you here, what is the best way for them to meet you or learn more?
My website is www.barbara4folsom.com and my email and phone number are available on that site. I am responding to all inquiries.
