Home Antioch Q&A: Antioch City Council Candidates Talk Antioch’s Future

Q&A: Antioch City Council Candidates Talk Antioch’s Future

by ECT

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With eight candidates running for two seats for the Antioch City Council, EastCountyToday provided an opportunity for candidates to answer questions to allow voters the chance to learn more about each candidate and why they were running. The following are responses by 6 of 8 candidates running.

  • Steven Bado – Did not respond
  • Karl Dietzel
  • Diane Gibson-Gray
  • Jeffrey Hall-Cottrell – Did not respond
  • Lori Ogorchock
  • Anthony Segovia
  • Lamar Thorpe
  • Tony Tiscareno

Note: to promote fairness, order of answers will rotate.

In 200 words or less, please provide a quick bio

Dietzel – Age: 65, Retired, Married, 2 Daughters, Born and raised in Berlin/ Germany, Immigrant to USA 1985, Naturalized 2001, High school grad, Plumber Apprentice ship , Para-Medic, Commercial Sales Clerk

Gibson-Gray: I was first elected to the Antioch Unified School District (AUSD) as a Trustee in 2008 and am currently serving my 2nd term. In addition to serving on the School Board for six years, I have been the Executive Director for the Arts & Cultural Foundation of Antioch for ten years; planning exhibits at the Lynn House Gallery, managing the free Saturday Summer Concerts and working with many local nonprofits to support community and cultural events. Prior to working in the nonprofit world, I spent 28 years in the telecommunications industry in many departments: Customer Service, Marketing and Government Affairs. In my last position as the Regional Director of Customer Care, I spent many years commuting to cable systems located throughout northern California and took an early retirement in 2004. Despite the demands of my career and too many hours on the road, I always found the time to indulge my passion to be part of the community. From serving on commissions to volunteering at festivals and supporting the business community as a Chamber of Commerce Board Member, volunteering has been a family passion.

Ogorchock: We moved from Shore Acres in my freshmen year of high school, so I attended Park and then off to AHS, where I graduated in 1975.  My mother was a Antioch Unified School bus driver for over 30 years and that is what brought us into the community.  My father was a 20 year retired vet and served in both the Korean and Vietnam wars.  I have 4 siblings, all are local, but not in Antioch.  I have 3 adult children, 2 of which reside in Antioch and the 3rd, her and her husband are attempting to find a job in Antioch to move back from Texas.  I currently have my 7 yr old grandson living w/me and he is attending Holy Rosary School. Since 2009, I have worked as a Realtor at Keller Williams Realty. Prior to that, I was a Paralegal at Joseph-Long Attorney.

Segovia: My name is Anthony Segovia, I have resided in Antioch for most of my childhood and adult life with the exception of high school. I attended my lower education within the AUSD. After completing high school in Brentwood, I then moved on to Los Medanos College where I was a Journalism Major. Upon completion i made my way to UC Berkeley Extension campus. Following college I worked as a newsroom employee for KTVU. Prior to my employment at KTVU, i was a Mortgage Analyst for Countrywide Financial . Since then i have been a financial analyst for the mortgage and insurance markets

Thorpe:  In 1981, Lamar Thorpe was born in prison to a mother addicted to heroin, at two days old he was placed in foster care and raised by a family who emigrated from Mexico. His first language is Spanish. In 5th grade, Lamar was placed in Special Education and subsequently graduated high school not knowing how to read and write. After two semesters in junior college, Lamar was asked to leave because he was illiterate. With nowhere else to go, Lamar enlisted in the United States Navy. Today, Lamar is a proud 8-year Navy veteran, a two time graduate of George Washington University, and serves on the executive team of the San Jose-Evergreen Community College District as their Chief Advancement Officer. Lamar serves on the Antioch Economic Development Commission and as a Neighborhood Watch Block Captain. He and his wife, Patrice, and their 5 year old daughter, are proud residents of Antioch. As a result of his personal life, military service, and professional experiences, Lamar will fight for policies that create good paying jobs in Antioch, and bring fiscal responsibility that increase city services, community safety and reinvigorate our downtown.

Tiscareno: 44 year resident of Antioch, graduated from Antioch High 1975. Married to my wife Olivia for 35 years and have 2 children Yvette and Anthony and 5 grandkids Eliana, Enalivia, Evan, Audrina and Zayden. Jobs history: US Steel 33 years, jobs performed, 4 ½ year apprenticeship 1977 to 1981, trained facilitator, and ISO 9000 quality auditor. Served as Vice President and President for United Steelworkers Local 1440 from 1997 – 2003 and 2006 – 2009. Casual Staff Rep for United Steelworkers International 2003 – 2006. Business owner of Tony’s Sports Cards 1988 – 1996. Political Director Contra Costa Labor Council 2007-2011. Currently a Realtor for Keller Williams Realty East County.

How long have you lived in Antioch? How have you been involved in your community?

Gibson-Gray: I have lived in Antioch for over 50 years and have been involved in the Antioch and Pittsburg communities for over 35 years. I’m a Rotarian and Women’s Club Member, a past 20+ year Soroptimist, former Park & Recreation and Planning Commissioner and have volunteered for many events and activities. My position as the Executive Director for the Arts & Cultural Foundation presents many opportunities to help support other nonprofit organizations and community activities.

Ogorchock: 40+ years. I’ve been involved in our community since 1984.

Segovia: I have lived in Antioch most of my life, with the exception of high school where my parents relocated to Brentwood. I have been involved with the community a great deal, from volunteering at youth sporting events to community service

Thorpe: 4 years, Antioch Economic Development Commissioner, Neighborhood Watch Block Captain, Campaign Manager for Monica Wilson for Antioch City Council 2012, Antioch High School Listening Circle Task Force, Neighborhood Clean Ups, Volunteer Little Angels Country School, and Parents Connected – Mentor.

Tiscareno: 44 years.  I have been involved in the community as a business owner, coached youth sports (Little League, Babe Ruth, CYO Basketball). Neighborhood co-captain, neighborhood cleanups, Rotary Club.

Dietzel: Live in Antioch since 1989
Volunteer with Graffiti Abetment
Election Volunteer  of many Years

What are your top 3 priorities? Why is it your priority and how will you implement it?

Ogorchock:

  1. To have a safe community
  2. Develop the downtown area
  3. Economic growth

I do have a vision for our biblical city, one that is filled w/endless possibilities, I am very excited about our future.

Segovia:
My top three priorities are community safety. business development and our budget. These are the foundation to any city. no matter how or how small. In regards to community safety our local agencies including our police department need to find a midpoint to get this crime under control. We need to utilize every resource we have to implement a zero tolerance. We as a city will not stand for the crime rate we are seeing. Business development is very important in order to drive in more revenue, we need to make Antioch a city people want to live in. In order to attract businesses we need to offer incentives to our future business owners. Antioch’s budget needs to be looked at more carefully we need to know where every penny is going. We cannot afford to be careless with our spending especially when we as a city our trying to attract not only residents but businesses.

Thorpe:

  1. Fueling local job growth
  2. Fiscal responsibility to increase community safety and services
  3. Downtown redevelopment

Local job growth is my number one priority because Antioch’s unemployment rate hovers around 7 and 8%, the median household income for renters is in the mid $30,000s, and home values – though are rising – continue to remain lower than what they were prior to the Great Recession. In other words, Antioch suffers from a severe jobs and housing imbalance.

In order to fuel economic growth and subsequently our tax base, families need extra income to keep restaurants like Rick’s On Second or Bases Loaded open, make home improvements that prevents Orchards from relocating, and maintains a strong and robust police department to ensure community safety.

To remedy this issue, here’s my plan to increase job growth in Antioch and bring good paying jobs to the East County region:

I will do this by:

  1. Fight for the creation of local tax credits that will complement the Governor’s Economic Development Initiative with specific focus on biotechnology, research and development, and high-skilled manufacturing industries that are coming back to the U.S. from other countries like China.
  2. Encourage city administration to solicit requests from developers who are green building specialists that can provide high-paying construction jobs, and ensure future mixed-use, commercial, and/or residential development is LEED-certified and/or energy efficient.
  3. Working with city administration to update our local zoning laws, and incentivize development around our urban infill and near public transit such as E-Bart and Amtrak stations and along Hwy 4 corridor.
  4. Support streamlining the use-permitting process for developers that value and encourage community benefit agreements, promote local hiring, veteran hiring, and ensure a livable wage for workers

Tiscareno:
Public Safety, Economic Development & Recreation.If we are going to entice businesses and commercial to come to Antioch, we need to nix our reputation of being a city plagued with crime. It is important that we all take a proactive approach to reducing crime by becoming more engaged and participating in neighborhood watch groups, cleanups, reporting crime and being on the lookout for suspicious activity. I’ve been successful in implementing the “ Looking Out for You” with our local trash collection company and this has branched off to include our postal workers. I will continue to recruit more businesses to participate.

Dietzel:
To serve the people of Antioch and NOT serving the council or city staff

  1. Hiring back all code enforcement and all cso’s
  2. Measure c is kicking in, money is available, code enforcement and cso’s cost a fraction of police officers. but hiring back cso’s will free up 10-15 officers, ready to work patrol, right away. no waiting of many years to get new officers passing our hiring process. our hiring procedure need to be seriously look at, since the city is not hiring, we’re just replacing. putting the issue on the agenda, over and over, until there is a public discussion/ resolution, plus staff recommendation to vote on.
  3. hiring of a economic development director the city needs to hire a economic development director, this is the most important job in my view. it cannot be done by 3 people, like it’s done right now.
  4. Putting the issue on the agenda, over and over, until there is a public discussion, resolution, plus staff recommendation to vote on

Gibson-Gray:

  1. Public SafetyUtilize current Police Department and Code Enforcement staffing to provide the best coverage possible throughout the city in order to ensure that Antioch is a great place to Work, Live & Play.
  2. Fiscal Responsibility: Contain costs while using available funding wisely. Increase city services to the public by bringing back the 40 hour work week.
  3. Economic Development: Transportation improvements (widening Highway 4, E-Bart and Highway 160 improvements) makes Antioch an attractive development opportunity; now is the time for discussions with potential new business entities.

In today’s challenging economic climate, we must work smarter and make better use of limited resources. My diverse background has provided me the skills needed to navigate the current local and state economic crises, hire successful district leaders and create an environment of open communications and collaborative relationships. My business and community service experience and lifetime knowledge of Antioch has served me well during my tenure as an AUSD Board Member. As an elected representative, I have been a voice for financial accountability, increased investment in the classroom and school site safety. It is important to have an experienced voice on the council as we look towards future development opportunities. It is critical that the our city is a safe city, public services are provided in a consistent and effective manner and that everyone, including residents, view Antioch with opportunity, respect and see current advantages and future potential.

Do you feel Antioch acted appropriately with its planned use of Measure C funds?

Segovia: Measure C , was a half-cent sales tax increase, however i think we all believe the measure fell way short of its goal. I believe these funds were mismanaged or just not spent appropriately. This should have generated a decent amount of money for the city

Thorpe: The City claims that all Measure C money will go towards hiring new police officers. We will have to wait and find out once the money begins to come in towards the end of September and early October.

Tiscareno: I supported Measure C and advocated strongly that 100% of Measure C funds would go to our Police and Code Enforcement. I continue to support this and with the creation of the Oversight Committee, we will be held accountable.

Dietzel: NO, I was against Measure C the way it was written. It was clear from day 1, all monies will go into the General Fund. the people of Antioch were lied too, from day one. I would have supported/ voted yes for a 2/3 / everything towards the safety department. 7 years is way to short, its just a bandage.

Gibson-Gray: Additional funding for police services was without a doubt, desperately needed. I believe everyone is in agreement that the language in the ballot measure and the promotion for support for the measure should have been more clearly stated. With that said, my analysis of the city staff report for the implementation of the funding confirms that the incoming funds are going directly to support adding additional police officers, with a small amount going to support items, such as additional police automobiles. Ramping up the hiring process and the impact of officers cycling out of service (such as retirements, injuries, etc.) needs to be factored into the recruitment process and timelines in order to reach Measure C’s objective of more boots on the ground.

Ogorchock: I’m not sure I truly understand the question, but, it appears that the Measure C funds are all going towards the police dept.  We are in need of Community Services officers that can lighten the load of the officers, by taking prisoners to Martinez, fingerprinting, help w/investigations, etc… we need more Code Enforcements officers.  City has an oversight committee for these funds and I believe the citizens on this committee have our (citizens) best interest at heart and will do whatever they can to make sure the funds are to be used appropriately.

Antioch Mayor Wade Harper stated in April, “I am hearing from people that they are feeling better and that crime is coming down and the economy is improving. Everywhere I go, they say things are getting better,” said Harper.   Do you agree with his statement? Why or why not? How would you work with the police department?

Thorpe: No. Violent crime is still high and the local economy is by no stretch of the imagination improving. While the rest of the S.F. Bay Area sees its housing prices return to pre-recession levels, Antioch home values are still drastically below pre-recession levels. It’s not rocket science, as job opportunities decrease, crime increases, and as the availability of jobs increase, crime decreases.  It’s a combination of having a productive workforce and steady tax base that preserves community safety with good police and code endorsement officers.

I’ll work with the chief of police to ensure we have a collaborative relationship that promotes our community’s safety first while simultaneously protecting our officers through fiscal responsibility and ensuring them with the tools and resources that keep communities safe.

Tiscareno: I will agree that statistically crime has reduced a bit from this time last year but we’ve seen a number of shootings in our city that has us all concerned. Our police are doing a great job of catching these criminals and I continue to support the proactive details that they are performing to arrest and remove these criminals from the streets. Mayor Harper was instrumental in providing the authority to continue these proactive police details to curb our crime issues, I supported him on this venture. The Police Department knows that they have my full support and I’m proud to announce that I’m the only candidate to have the endorsement of the Police Officers.

Dietzel: Mayor Wade Harper has failed the people of Antioch. Under his “leadership” Antioch is in the “Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities.” He created a crime sub-committee at the very first meeting after his election. This committee had one public contact/ meeting in the sycamore area, about 2 month ago, but there was no feedback. Our crime is out of control. How would I work with the police department, see the number 2 , out of my 3 priorities

Gibson-Gray: I feel the community feels like Antioch has hit the bottom in terms of “how low can we go?” and once the bottom has been touched, the next step is up. With the small net increase in police officers in place, there is a slight perception of improvement, which unfortunately is then marred by increases in violent crimes. I have seen traffic stops in recent times and I personally feel that it has been years since traffic issues have been a priority. The police department has called on multi-agency support for task force sweeps, citizens have stood up and said they are not going to take it anymore and have become more involved through community volunteerism, such as the removal of the blue donation boxes. There has also been new Neighborhood Watch groups formed and residents are encouraged and supported to contact APD for lower level issues. These small steps provide hope and optimism that we are headed in the right direction, but continued focus on violent crime must be our highest priority.

I would work with the police by standing beside them as the take on community issues. The Chief of Police has issued statements concerning the most violent of crimes that have been plaguing the city and the council needs to be perceived as partner in supporting their actions as they take the necessary steps to put a stop to all levels of crime in Antioch. While the current council is very supportive of our police department the message must be clear that they stand and work together.

Ogorchock: No, not at all. It is not what we see, we are on the news, there are fights in our schools, kids misbehaving on their way home from school, people do not feel safe in our city.  Being in real estate Antioch is a hard sell, people do not want to live here.  We have long time residents and business leaving.  I have a few ideas, a-such as Crime Prevention Multi Housing, it is a free program that we can work w/apt owners and tenants to police their own areas, (neighborhood watch on steroids), I would love to see a restorative justice program in our area, where those that do a crime have to pay back to the city, financially and working. We are not a city of one, but a community that has to come together to work to better our city.

Segovia: Unfortunately, I have to disagree with Mayor Harpers statement, although Antioch has been tough on crime the past month or so, we as citizens need to realize it is an election year and there going to hold no stops attempting to get crime under control. If elected to city council this will be my main priority we as a city cannot just get crime under control for a set period then walk away. We need to keep pushing , hiring additional staff and implementing a street clean up team that their main focus will be the hard hit streets of Antioch.

Are you in support of Measure O (Business License Tax)? Why or why not?

Tiscareno: I support Measure O for two reasons, 1, It will provide revenue to support Police, Code Enforcement and other city services so our city can be maintained like it should be and 2, this would give us a mechanism to hold landlords accountable for their properties. Even though we have some responsible landlords and property managers, there’s still an over abundance of blighted and abandoned properties that these owners need to be held accountable for. I believe Measure O will give us the resources to assure that our code enforcement can do their jobs efficiently and effectively.

Dietzel: I am pro Measure O. Measure O is needed for several reasons. First off, there has to be a fair fee/ tax/ licenses charge for ALL who want to do business in Antioch. That includes rentals. The city also needs a steady flow of revenue to provide all the needed services/ police etc

Gibson-Gray: I am in support of Measure O. I own three homes in Antioch and will be paying the tax. I look at the incremental cost as an investment, both financial and in my community.  My only concern is that by including apartments in the measure, there will most likely be a legal challenge which will delay or prevent the collection of taxes in a timely manner. Large apartment complexes are run as businesses and pay taxes differently than property owners of single family dwellings. There is an incentive to keep the units in good condition, residents safe and employ locally. Unfortunately, a large contingent of single family units are owned by out of town and foreign investors and gross revenue is more important to their bottom line than property maintenance and how their renters impact our community.  If the rent is paid on time, and often through government subsidies, they have no financial or personal incentive to maintain, improve or ensure they have responsible community renters. These are the landlords who need to be held accountable, both morally and financially.

Ogorchock:  No, not the way this bill is written. I believe strongly in a business license tax, I worked on the committee w/the Friday Morning Breakfast Club, CAA, DAR and Chamber, and the city prior to them pulling out, we need it, but we need to tax reasonably, fairly and simplify the business license tax.

Segovia: I agree with the additional business tax, this is something that needs to happen. In order to run a city we need revenue.

Thorpe: Yes. We need to improve city services particularly our code enforcement division.

Did the City Council make the right decision regarding its recent update to its Animal Ordinance (Feral Cats/pet limitations)? Would you have done something different?

Dietzel: We have to stop putting more and more laws/ ordinances in place and rather look for solutions. I do not support the idea of feeding wild cats, because the supporters also feed any and all other wild animals. I would go with a catch/ neuter/ release to adoption program. I also think, since antioch has a animal shelter, a solution needs to be produced by that department and brought forward to the public. I would support a cat/ dog/ animal licensing program/ micro ship system.

Gibson-Gray: This is a case of good intentions and unexpected consequences. It was my understanding that there was a 6-month moratorium on the fines related to feral cat feeding while the city/groups worked together, yet one volunteer received a $500 fine for feeding feral cats. While the council took a position on an issue that has public health concerns, the lack of public input and planning has created a community divide.  A focus must be on the downtown area, with feral and abandoned cats reproducing in large numbers in a concentrated area. A TNR (Trap, Neuter and Release) program needs to be in place to effectively manage the population. Many of the animal advocate groups are doing this service as the city’s Animal Services Department does not have the staff or funds to do so. Unfortunately, there is a divide between city staff and animal advocates where there needs to be a collaboration. I would have requested staff work with the groups to find middle ground solutions and implement an ordnance update that works as best as possible for all.

Ogorchock: I believe there should have been a plan for the feral animals. Hard to say as I did not hear all the arguments for and against.

Segovia: The City did make the right decision; I would not have changed anything.

Thorpe: Yes and No.

Tiscareno: Council passed the ordinance by a 4 to 1 vote with me being the dissenting vote. My vote was not to oppose the ordinance but more so to provide a window of time for all parties to work together to come to a consensus on how to reduce the feral cat population in a fair and humane way. I believe I was able to provide this by having a 6-month window for the city and the animal rights groups to work together as part of passing this ordinance.

Is Antioch business friendly? Please explain. How would you work to improve economic development?

Gibson-Gray: Currently the feedback and perception I hear is that the planning/permit process is not business friendly. Staff shortages, hours of operation and required paperwork and processes are confusing and contribute to this perception. Permits are issued and potential business owners process and submit required paperwork only to find another step or cog in the wheel of progress that delay getting their business up and running. The solution is often to pay more fees and/or pay for the services of a contract planner to move forward. The process is slow, cumbersome and expensive.

The Antioch Chamber of Commerce is working with the City Manager and city staff to review current processes and with input from local business, provide suggestions and solutions to remove the barriers to conducting business in Antioch. In addition, the Chamber feels that while it would be wonderful if all new businesses chose to locate in Antioch, Antioch will benefit from regional development and accordingly have partnered with multi-city and county agencies for economic stimulus on a regional basis. As a Chamber Executive Board Member, I support this direction.

Ogorchock: I do not understand exactly what the issues are as to why we are not business friendly.  I have heard from several current business about problems that they have had to go thru to and how close they were to pulling up and moving on.  I have never attempted to open a business within the city so I do not how that departments works.  But that is a major concern and one that needs to be addressed, we need to work together to find out how we can expedite the process.

Segovia: As of right now Antioch is not business friendly. First thing we need to do is extend our hours in all city departments. We need to improve the way we treat our businesses and want them to stay in the city. We need to establish a businesses department which their main goals need to be following up with complaints, answering questions and establishing new businesses. We also need to work with local commercial property landlords to fill their vacancies with businesses.

Thorpe: No.

Tiscareno: I believe we are becoming more business friendly and that was noted when we saw the opening of 8 businesses in the Downtown area. With the hiring of our new City Manager who has a reputation and experience in economic development, I see the potential of light industry and commercial businesses popping up in our city in the very near future.

Dietzel: We need a straight directive from our city manager, that any and all purchases are made at Antioch biz, also any and all projects need to be awarded to antioch businesses. the city needs to set an example, by supporting our local business, securing/ creating jobs…in return our sales tax revenue will increase. putting the issue on the agenda, over and over, until there is a public discussion, resolution, plus staff recommendation to vote on. See also my 3 priorities.

What are your thoughts on the proposed Antioch downtown East Residential Development Project (Rivertown vacant lot/Nick Rodriguez community Center).

Ogorchock: I have a vision of an Event Center downtown where concerts, plays, etc…can be held, events weekly and then bigger events monthly.  It is the start of all parades, people love being by the water and it is a phenomenal view, if you mention the lumber yard longtime residents know exactly what you are talking about.  I feel this could/would be an area for ALL Antiochians to could come together culturally.  We do and will need future development in the downtown area, such as high density homes that will feed the downtown area.

Segovia: I totally disagree with the city’s plan to tear down the Nick Rodriguez Community Center, not only is it a fixture in this town, it is also a place where our seniors can go. The city needs to find additional ways to bring in revenue. Not by demolishing a landmark. We can also build somewhere else. Antioch has a lot of vacant land that can be utilized.

Thorpe: There is no proposal that I am aware. The City however has put out a request for proposals but from my understanding none have been submitted. Generally, I have concerns with residential development projects that are not mixed use and include amenities for new residents, provide direct access to highway 4 or alternative transportation options like E-Bart, and continue to add to our jobs and housing imbalance.

Tiscareno: First, I am a big supporter of our Senior Center and would love to see a remodeled facility for their use. The Senior Center is a fixture in our downtown area and its will remain there. As for proposed development in the River town, I am opened minded to hear all tangible plans for this area. We have been talking about improving the downtown area long before I moved here and I’ve been living here since 1970. Now that we have an actual plan on the table, there has been debate as to what needs to be done in the downtown area. I like that fact that our residents are expressing their ideas and concerns but I will be looking at projects that will provide foot traffic and business generation for our downtown and entire community.

Dietzel: Absolutely “no” housing development in any shape or form down town. We need more access to the water, need attract people to come down to down town. There should be a park, with shaded sitting areas, incl tables, barbeque pits, play area, concrete chess tables, stage area, even water features. No take down of senior center/Rodriques Center until the future land/ builder/ money is secured. All plan need to be discuss in public meetings. I also promote the idea that large project like this, should be decided by ALL people of Antioch by vote. We have 2 elections a year

Gibson-Gray: After years of studying and talking, but taking no action, something is happening in downtown Antioch. A Request for Proposal/Qualifications (RFP/Q) was issued and while I agree with the residents, communication was absent, it has created a conversation. Proposals are due November 1st and until a valid, qualified proposal is in play, I do not have an opinion as there is not a project to comment on. The residents are working hard to present an alternate proposal, an event center/park and until their proposal is submitted, again I feel commenting is not productive. If elected, both proposals would be before me as a Council Member and publicly taking a side before all information is available, in my opinion is not appropriate. I want to be open to hearing the information in the public process in order to effectively conduct the business of the public as an elected official.

Why should people vote for you?

Segovia: The citizens should vote for me due to the fact that I will dedicate my time to improving this city not just using it as a place to be. This is a place where I want to raise my family. The current situation the town is in i would reconsider. This is why im willing to dedicate my time to it. I know what needs to be done to get this town back on track. We need someone with a can do attitude and who is refusing to give up. I’m also the youngest member running for city council so I think there is more of a “want” then hope. I want to be the voice of our younger generation. We need to start and change the City council structure and it starts with me.

Thorpe: In Antioch leaders need to talk less and listen more. As a civic and higher education leader, I have always valued civic engagement as a process where constituents are able to speak and influence the decision making process. And, this is exactly what Antioch needs and I’m able to offer, bold, steadfast leadership that listens and engages.

Tiscareno: I have never claimed to be a politician, I am one who works hard and is not afraid to tackle problems. I am very active in our community and accessible to our citizens. I have the ability to work with all personalities and have the respect of others in leadership. I am proud to be endorsed by our public safety providers such as our police and firefighters. I grew up in this city and I plan to be here for the rest of my life. I want to be a leader in providing a safe and economically sound community as well as a community of recreation. I will never take this position for granted; as I believe holding a seat on council is a privilege as we are servants to our community. I would be honored to have your vote.

Dietzel: I am not connected to anybody – no builders/ no investors, no unions, no associations, not connected to police/ fire, no endorsements, have not taken a cent from anybody, and will not take a dime.  Think out of the box, I am NOT connected to anybody, no unions, associations, any interest groups, it’s just me. I will/ can’t make any promises. My commitment to the Antioch residents is this: I will serve ALL Antioch residents, not just the voters, and I will not serve the council, and will not serve the city manger. I want to better our city and stop the 30 year down-spiral of Antioch. Please do not vote the same people into office over and over, and expect different result.

Gibson-Gray: In today’s challenging economic climate, we must work smarter and make better use of limited resources. My diverse background has provided me the skills needed to navigate the current local and state economic crises, hire successful district leaders and create an environment of open communications and collaborative relationships. My business and community service experience and lifetime knowledge of Antioch has served me well during my tenure as an AUSD Board Member. As an elected representative, I have been a voice for financial accountability, increased investment in the classroom and school site safety. It is important to have an experienced voice on the council as we look towards future development opportunities. It is critical that our city is a safe city, public services are provided in a consistent and effective manner and that everyone, including residents, view Antioch with opportunity, respect and see current advantages and future potential.  It is important to have a voice with experience representing Antioch on the council.  I am that voice.

Ogorchock: I have a passion for our city, and a stronger desire to share w/others the positive that Antioch has to offer. I have lived here most of my life, over 40 years and have NO desire to leave.  I want our city to succeed, to be the town to go to in East Contra Costa County.  I am not afraid to work hard and to get my hands dirty and dig right in.  I am an influencer, a leader who is dedicated to our community, and there are several citizens just like myself that want to help, we need to reach out and attract those that have the drive to succeed.

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29 comments

JimSimmons 42 Sep 25, 2014 - 10:07 am

This makes me really question the Contra Costa Times endorsement of Ogorchock when she did not understand two of the questions that were spelled out. She also did not show up to the forum a few weeks ago. Sorry, she lost my vote. I like Lamar and Diane Gibson-Gray at this point based off these questions.

Tim F Sep 25, 2014 - 10:09 am

Thank you for this ECT. Karl gave the best answers based off my views, but he will never win so I am not going to throw away my vote. I say Diane Gibson-Gray and Lori Ogorchock.

karl dietzel Sep 25, 2014 - 3:31 pm

thanks for your comment,
but i disagree, i think you’re “throwing” away your vote, for voting the very same people into office.
vote for Karl Dietzel for City Council, Nov. 2014 Election

Pissed off Antioch Voter Sep 25, 2014 - 10:13 am

Just Google Lamar Thorpe and you will see why I will never vote for him. He has no business being elected to office. ECT, why did you not question him on his history? Why not question Anthony Segovia on his? Come on ECT, you are better than throwing softballs at the candidates? Why not question Tony Tiscareno is crime campaign yet crime is going up while he is in office. Diane Gibson-Gray, like Tiscareno, loses my vote because of her handling of Deer Valley Plaza.

Karl Deitzel and Lori Ogorchock are the only way to go.

karl dietzel Sep 25, 2014 - 3:38 pm

thanks for your comment.
i was warned way before the “campaign” started, about the (i call it) “dirt diggers” , and yes “they” showed up right in time. some people text me their concerns, asking about the california election code, which i gave to them. i have a stalker in my my neck, get fake emails, the list is getting longer and longer.

i promised myself not to fall into that dirt throwing contest, but addressed the issue with a candidate and one of his promoters. everything else i leave up to the people.

Dan Sep 25, 2014 - 10:47 am

Get real people, until Wade Harper is removed from Mayor, nothing good will happen in Antioch. Recall him!!!!!

karl dietzel Sep 25, 2014 - 3:44 pm

hello dan,
i disagree with you. after all we’re in a democracy, and as you can read, people have issued a re-call notice, and people want their city back, people want representatives who represent them/ us.
please vote the right people (me) into office.

Marty Fernandez Sep 25, 2014 - 12:16 pm

Lori Ogorchock states Friday Morning Breakfast Club pulled out of the negotiations on the Measure that was to become Measure O. THAT is a lie. The California Apartment Owners refused to negotiate. FMBC was at EVERY meeting. She also lies to people about being in favor of O at times when she actually has never been in favor. I cannot vote for Ogorchock because she lies and cannot keep her stories straight.

Karl Dietzel Sep 25, 2014 - 12:24 pm

Hello readers
I would like to comment, but my question is, would that be appropriate ?
Karl Dietzel for Antioch City Council
Nov 2014, Election

CaptainKlutz Sep 25, 2014 - 12:44 pm

Karl,
I don’t live in Antioch, so I think I can give an unbiased answer. This is a public forum and all of you have access. As long as ECT doesn’t delete or edit posts from the candidates on this particular thread, why not? Its ECTs ballpark though and he’d have to agree so the playing field is level.

All that said, the more info voters have, the better.

Karl Dietzel Sep 25, 2014 - 12:58 pm

Thanks captain

Ok I will comment, but have to be on my PC , to many funny typos with my big fingers on the cell phone. Lol

EastCountyToday Sep 25, 2014 - 12:56 pm

Karl, feel free to respond. It’s your election

pv Sep 25, 2014 - 12:41 pm

Seggovia, Ogorchock, Tiscareno (Seeno minion who has done nothing about crime in the year he has been in office. Delegating clean-up and enforcement to the citizens of Antioch and creating useless committes has already been done and exhausted. Citizens of Antioch are exhausted with the current City Council’s attitude and handling the City’s affairs. We don’t need Keller Williams Realty to comprise our entire City Council. Tiscareno already works for them. Ogorchock works for them. I was going to vote for Gibson-Gray but think Deer Valley was poorly handled as well so back to reading.

karl dietzel Sep 25, 2014 - 4:01 pm

hello pv,
i am very proud to be part of a 16 people group, now 8, who have stepped up, and are willing to stop all the antioch nonsense. but you are right, we the people, have to make a wise choice this fall. i just urge antioch voters to think out of the box.

vote for karl dietzel

Confused Voter Sep 25, 2014 - 12:50 pm

Anyone else sick of people in the real estate industry running for council? Ogorchock/Tiscareno/Segovia/ and might as well include Gibson-Gray with her many rentals. So that removed 4 people. You have 2 that have failed to show to anything or we heard from them. That removes 2 more. You have a guy who is a poster child for goofball commentators at council meetings, so you can remove him. You then have a guy who thinks he is slick as they come but should be in jail. Poor Antioch, 4 more years of nothing.

I thank you ECT for providing this info as its really helpful, guess I am stuck with Tiscareno & Gibson-Gray. They are the best of a terrible field.

Marty Fernandez Sep 25, 2014 - 3:23 pm

Absolutely not. I have watched Lamar and Karl work for a few years at Council. I know Karl’s resources, how hard he works and over the years understand him very well.

karl dietzel Sep 25, 2014 - 4:05 pm

thanks for your comment, but no thanks for blaming candidates for your frustration with our city council.
like i said before, i am proud of being part of a very large group , org 16, 8 left, who step up to the plate, and are willing and ready to take our city back.
i urge you, not to vote for the very same people over and over and expect different results.

Marty Fernandez Sep 25, 2014 - 7:58 pm

Karl, I hope that was meant to Confused Voter.

Diane Gibson-Gray Sep 27, 2014 - 11:04 am

This is the first time I’ve responded to a comment on my campaign, but I would like to clear up the reason why I have rentals. I have two rentals. I became a landlord because two years ago I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to buy a historical home in Beede Park (I live in the house by City Park where the flamingos are decorated for each season), so my son now lives in the home I’ve owned for 18 years in Southeast Antioch. We purchased another home this past April for my brother who had a double lung transplant and needs family support. I take a loss on the properties as the rent does not cover the two mortgages, taxes and insurances. I am blessed to be able to help my family. I am not in the rental business. I hope this information helps as you make your decision on November 4th.

Jim Smith Sep 25, 2014 - 12:53 pm

Some of you people are being way to negative, you cannot be holding candidates accountable for todays problems in Antioch. Take what they have to say and pick the best candidate.

I found this information to be informative and helpful since I knew little about the candidates. I will take it and make the best decision for how I want to vote. I think people should stop being so negative with the candidates, they threw their names in the hat, if you don’t like it, throws yours in next time

Chuck Sep 25, 2014 - 6:37 pm

My question to all the candidates.

What will you do to keep all the THUGS within your city limits ? They are leaking onto Oakley and Brentwood like a cancer.

? Sep 25, 2014 - 7:04 pm

Chuck is on my page. Build a big wall and keep those lumps of s*it in your town.

? Sep 25, 2014 - 7:30 pm

It’s not cancer though Chuck…….. It’s more like cockroaches…. I have sympathy and respect for the word cancer. The people with cancer fight to live. Antioch is full of COCKROACHES they don’t care if they die.

anthony segovia Sep 26, 2014 - 8:33 am

Everyone who is speaking negative towards the candidates needs a reality check. Myself and the others are trying to make the city which all of you reside in a better place. Just because past or previous council may or may not have done their duties correctly does not mean we wont.

Tom Lamothe Sep 26, 2014 - 9:34 am

Clearly Diane Gibson- Gray is the front leader here. Repeatedly Ms. Gibson- Gray expressess a solid understanding of the issues that Antioch needs to address. It would be a shame if Antioch passed up a chance to put someone with so many community connections on the council.

RJB Sep 26, 2014 - 7:41 pm

No Lamar Thorpre for me. He does NOT have the experience to be City Council. Furthermore, I see a repeat of the same stuff we have seen from various council members with Thorpe.
No on anyone from the AUSD, that entity is a failure and a half.
No on Tiscareno, he doesn’t even deserve his current chair since he was never voted for by the people of Antioch.

I have seen Ogorchok take action removing those filthy donatation boxes, a great move.
I have seen Karl candidly approach problems from a practical perspective, a great move.

I’m not familiar with Segovia yet.

All the others who didn’t reply and brushed these questions of should rescind their application.

karl dietzel Sep 28, 2014 - 4:41 pm

hello rjb,
thanks for your comment.
i don’t know if antioch voters are ready/ willing to think out of the box at this time. maybe in 2-3 years when antioch is bankrupt.
i am just a resident and voter, like, we the people, but will not vote the same people into office who have run antioch in the ground.
no more ausd members/ real estate agent, property managers etct etc.and i apologize, that i been born in a hospital.
no vote for people with big and a lot of signs all over the city, no suit people with smart talk abilities for me.
i still have not met 2 of the candidates, or read anything about them. i find that very scary.
no public engagement, or very very little, from the candidates on social media to burning issues. while going for many years to all city council meetings, none of the other candidates could be seen.

don’t vote the very same people into office and expect different results.
think out f the box

Karl Dietzel for Antioch City Council
Nov. 2014, Election

Chuck Sep 28, 2014 - 6:00 pm

?,
You are correct cockroaches they are.

Hopeful for Antioch Oct 19, 2014 - 7:10 pm

I like Diane for CC

Comments are closed.