Sho Tay: 2010 City Council campaign
April 13, 2010 by admin
Filed under Council Candidates
The following blog posts are from the 2010 City Council election campaign.
Submitted Tuesday, April 13:
Election day is today!
Sho Tay
These past few months have been extremely busy for all 6 candidates. We’ve all been busy campaigning, meeting, and speaking to voters, day in and day out.
Yet, I still find that many voters are unsure of the issues and undecided on which candidates to elect.
I’ve come across residents and voters who are only choosing to vote for someone just because they’re Asian or just because they’re Caucasian. It’s no surprise to me that these same voters are unaware of the issues we are facing. I would like to challenge voters to get involved with the city and learn what the issues are.
The best thing you can do for Arcadia’s future is becoming an informed voter. Learn what the issues are and learn where each candidate stands. Educate yourself on which candidates can best serve Arcadia and can best represent you. This upcoming election is an extremely important election for our community; some consider it the most important election in Arcadia’s history.
We have so many important issues that need to be addressed in the very near future: the Shops at Santa Anita, the Gold line, the General Plan, budgetary problems, etc. It’s my opinion that these important issues will definitely shape the future of Arcadia.
Be sure that you investigate the candidates thoroughly and get to know who they are and what they’ve done; don’t just listen to the campaign rhetoric. Call the organizations the candidates say they belong to and see what they have to say. Make sure the candidates you elect have a track record of commitment and dedication to Arcadia.
Our future depends on it, the futures of our children depend on it, and the future of Arcadia depends on it; become an informed voter!
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Submitted Friday, April 2:
Last Friday I had the pleasure of meeting with a gentleman who had some concerns about our city. He had posted a suggestion on www.ArcadiasBest.com that the city of Arcadia start a CERT (Community Emergency Response Teams) program.
Prior to meeting with him I did a little research on the program and found it to be very impressive. After spending 2 hours with him and hearing the benefits of starting a program in Arcadia, I was sold.
Many other communities around Arcadia have already put together CERT workshops to prepare its citizens for emergencies. Shouldn’t Arcadians be prepared as well? This would not only be a great way for people in the community to get to know each other, but it would also educate Arcadians on proper emergency response procedures.
As the Master of Arcadia Masonic Lodge, I decided to book May 22nd, 2010 as the date for a CERT workshop. The event will be held at the Arcadia Masonic Lodge and refreshments will be provided. So bring your neighbors, family and friends and come enjoy an event of fun and fellowship while learning about important emergency response procedures. Stay tuned for more details!
Submitted March 26:
I’ve said it before and I will say it again; this election is getting dirtier and dirtier by the day. I have been trying my best to answer all the comments and questions I receive on ArcadiasBest.com in a respectful and professional manner. However, 99% of these comments are racial and personal attacks. As soon as I address one, another is posted. It’s a never-ending cycle. What does my ethnicity have anything to do with my abilities?
This election is no longer about addressing the issues but has become a dirty, disgusting, racist election. I have run before in the past with 3 of the 5 candidates and the election was a clean and respectful race…you do the math. There was no sign stealing, no name-calling, and most definitely no using of fake aliases to personally attack candidates. I’m not sure what has happened in this election, but to call it dirty would be an understatement.
To further fuel the fire, many of you have probably seen the article on Star News by now regarding our election. I was reading it this afternoon and I couldn’t help but feel insulted. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the mention of Asian candidates vs. Non-Asian candidates. The editorial claimed that supporters of Asian candidates would not support Non-Asian candidates and vice versa. NOT TRUE. They used statements like “the many thousands of yard signs set on sprawling lawns rarely mix Asian names with Anglo ones”, “there are three incumbents, all white, defending their seats. The three challengers all have family roots in China”, and “many dozens of houses sported candidates’ signs, showed precisely none with signs from both white and Asian candidates.” I cannot believe a respectable paper would racially split our community to sell more papers.
I’ll always continue to live by the quote “Harmony is the strength and support of all society, especially of ours.” The more I see these racial remarks the more upset I get. If you would still like to contact me and discuss the REAL ISSUES, I would LOVE to hear from you. You can always reach me on my cell phone (626) 447-2935.
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Submitted March 14:
In Masonry we have a saying: “Harmony is the strength and support of all society, especially of ours.”
The Masonic lodge can only run smoothly if all the members work together in harmony. It’s acceptable for lodge members to have a difference of opinion. As a matter of fact, respectful disagreements help build up various aspects of the lodge. However, when brother masons start gossiping and verbally attacking each other, failure is inevitable.
In the past couple weeks I have noticed that there have been some candidates and their supporters running negative campaigns; this is not what Arcadia is all about. I’ve heard rumors about myself and other candidates that absolutely disgust me. How can one man face another after spreading nasty lies about him?
Now, what if you and those you spoke unfavorably of get elected? How will you then be able to work together? People forgive but hardly forget.
It’s important that differences of opinion be settled in a respectful and neighborly manner. We all need to work together to better our community any way we can, be it as elected officials or community volunteers.
As city council candidates, we need to be community leaders. Let’s be role models to our children and upstanding citizens. Together we can all work towards a common goal: making Arcadia the greatest city in world.
Submitted March 4:
I would like to thank Gene Glasco who will be hosting a campaign rally on Monday, March 8 at C-21 Ludecke. If you are interested in attending this great event please contact Gene at 626-456-4366 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 626-456-4366 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or email him at Gene.Glasco@gmail.com. There will be a buffet and refreshments. I look forward to seeing everyone there!
Submitted Feb. 20:
I am very honored to announce that the Arcadia Police Officers Association and Arcadia Firefighters Association have chosen to endorse me as a candidate for Arcadia City Council.
As a council candidate and concerned Arcadia resident, I am devoted to maintaining safe streets and neighborhoods. The men and women of our police and fire department put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe.
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An endorsement by both the APOA and AFD means that they have chosen me as a candidate they believe they can best work with. With my prior background as a police officer, I know that I will be able to not only relate but also communicate and work efficiently with our police and fire. Together we’ll keep Arcadia safe!
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Submitted Feb. 18:
Planting and gardening is one of my hobbies. I especially enjoy planting trees that bear fruit.
I have been planting fruit trees in my yard since I’ve moved to Arcadia over 25 years ago. My kids have grown especially fond of the orange tree we have in our back yard that is as old as they are. Every spring they look forward to the big juicy oranges that grow from that very tree.
I take pride in the trees that I’ve planted and the fruit they bear. I have planted many different types of fruit trees in my average sized yard and it is fun to watch them grow and bear fruit. I love watching the fruit ripen, then harvest the fruit and share them with my friends and neighbors. Year after year, my family and friends still enjoy the fruits. However, I only wished that I had a bigger yard so I could plant more.
I remember a few years ago I went to visit a good friend of mine. I remember taking a tour of his yard and was amazed by all the different species of fruits and plants he had grown. One thing I remember that shocked me was the trees in his yard that were producing multiple types of fruit. My jaw nearly dropped when I saw that one citrus tree was able to bear oranges, lemons, tangerines, and grapefruits. I observed another pear tree with several species of pears hanging from its branches. It was unbelievable; I had never seen anything like it. In his average sized yard, through a technique known as grafting, he was able to grow more species of fruit than I was in my yard.
It was exciting to learn and see something new; I was impressed that my friend had taught grafting in the past. Since I had the perfect teacher right in front of me, I was eager to learn from him the technique of grafting. With the technique he taught me I was able to grow more types of fruit in the same yard then I was able to before.
It’s amazing how nature works. God created different species of plants, yet they are able to adapt and grow together on one tree. Just like our community, we have different people of different creeds, ethnicities and backgrounds, living in the same city. How are we able to live together in harmony? Through communication and education, and by working together to make our community a better place.
I’m proud to be running for a seat on the Arcadia city council. I hope through my campaign, and by acting as an example, I can encourage all the residents of Arcadia to work together as a community. Let’s all work together and make Arcadia the biggest “tree” with the best “fruits”!
Submitted Saturday, Feb. 6:
I would like to take this opportunity to show my appreciation by thanking each and every one of you who attended my campaign kick off party at the Arcadia Masonic Center on Friday, February 5, 2010.
This event was successful because of the support and kindness of all of you, even on this rainy day.
This is just the beginning of my campaign and I am looking forward to meeting all of the residents of Arcadia. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact my personal cellular phone: 626-447-2935. Of if you like, you can e-mail me at shotay@arcadiacity.com.
Submitted Tuesday, Feb. 2:
I am honored to be endorsed by past Mayors of Arcadia: Ed Butterworth, Jack Saelid, Floretta Lauber, Barbara Kuhn, Jim Helms, George W. Fasching, and Gail Marshall.
I truly appreciate their endorsements. Along with these distinguished mayors, I am also grateful to have received today, another endorsement from past Arcadia Mayor and former California State Senator, Bob Margett. I want to take this opportunity to thank them all for their vote of confidence. I also wish to thank all of my endorsers and supporters for giving me the opportunity to serve Arcadia.
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Submitted Saturday, Jan. 30:
Arcadia, “The best city to raise kids in California.” Doesn’t that title sound nice? It’s no surprise to me that Business Week magazine rated Arcadia as the best city to raise kids in California two years in a row.
I believe that one of the reasons why Arcadia is such a great city is because of its residents. Our community is fortunate to have residents that take ownership and pride in Arcadia. Many years of volunteer efforts have been invested into our community to make it what it is today. I truly believe that volunteers are what sets Arcadia apart from other communities.
I was enlightened many years ago when I first decided to get involved with the community. The first organization I decided to be a part of was the Arcadia Chinese Parents Booster club. At the time, both of my children were going to Arcadia schools and I thought it would be the right thing to do to get involved.
I enjoyed helping newly immigrated parents with English translation, selling scrip, helping in school days and grad nights as well as planning fundraisers to help purchase equipment for our schools. Through that organization I met neighbors and friends with whom I shared a common goal, making Arcadia Schools better. That’s when I first realized that community volunteers are crucial to a great community.
Since then I’ve joined many other organizations such as The American Red Cross—Arcadia Chapter, Rotary Club of Arcadia and Arcadia Chamber of Commerce, just to name a few. I’ve met many community leaders that I’m proud to be able to call my friends. We enjoy working together to make our schools better, our streets safer and our neighborhoods cleaner.
That’s why I strive to promote community unity, an inspiration where our youth, seniors, and community members of all ethnic backgrounds come together to create a better future. I believe that volunteering betters the self, the community and society. After all, “We make a living by what we do, but we make a life by what we give.” – Winston Churchill
Submitted: Tuesday, Jan. 26 – 11:20 p.m.
One of the main focuses of my campaign as outlined in my candidate statement is to promote balanced budgets and adequate reserves. The best way to balance our budget and increase our reserves is by decreasing unnecessary spending and increasing our revenues.
Our sales tax revenue has dropped 15% in the last year, which is approximately $1.5 million dollars. When businesses in Arcadia don’t generate as much business as they did the year before, the city loses sales tax revenue.
Whenever residents of Arcadia spend money outside of Arcadia, the city loses revenue. It’s very simple; the money that is spent outside of Arcadia could be spent within the city to increase the sales tax revenue so that it can be used to for our city services, fire department and/or police department.
As a city, we need to understand where our income sources come from. The majority of Arcadia’s income is from sales tax rather than property tax. But if sales tax revenue continues to drop, our main source of income will be property taxes. Nobody likes increased taxes, so wouldn’t it be nice if we could generate more income for our own community through sales tax revenues?
If we shop in our own city, Arcadia, we would be able to increase our sales tax revenues. I know that with the lifestyles some of us have, it may not always be possible to spend in Arcadia. But for those that are able to, it is something that could be very easy for many of us. The next time you feel like shopping, shop in Arcadia! Or maybe the next time you feel like dining out, try a new restaurant in Arcadia! Need to buy groceries? Try Arcadia! Need gas? Fill up in Arcadia! Let’s all promote “SHOP ARCADIA!”
Application statement filed with City Clerk’s office:
Sho Tay
Age: 52
Occupation: Businessman
My wife and I have lived in Arcadia for 25 years. Our two children were born and raised in our beautiful city. I firmly believe that strong family values build the foundation of a great community such as ours.
With 30 years of successful business background and expertise, I am uniquely qualified to serve the city. My experience will be especially valuable for the city budget and improving efficiency in city services.
I am committed to providing safer streets and neighborhoods, improving traffic in school areas, and monitoring sensible growth for our city while safekeeping our rich history.
I will work closely with our schools to provide greater educational opportunities for our children. We need to protect our seniors and I plan to attend to their needs.
I strive to promote Community Unity, an inspiration where our youth, seniors, and community members of all ethnic backgrounds come together to create a better future.
I pledge to be your voice and bring a fresh image to our city government with integrity, dedication, compassion and transparency.
I am not just another candidate, but an experienced community leader who serves all the citizens of Arcadia.
www.electsho.com
This is one of six blogs provided by ArcadiasBest.com to the six candidates running for three seats on the Arcadia City Council in the April 13, 2010 election.
Candidates are free to submit whatever statements they want here and comment on each other’s blogs.
Readers are encouraged to submit comments below each blog, which will be public for everyone to see, and to which anyone, including the candidates, may respond.
All editiorial by the candidates and comments by readers and the candidates must be approved by ArcadiasBest.com. No profanity will be allowed. Your full name and contact information (contact information not for publication) is required if your comments involve any specific or particularly harsh criticisms or claims that are not generally known or not immediately and easily verifiable.
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Im very excited that my dad is running for city council. He is not only a man of his word but a man of honor and i really think he can make a difference in our community. I can go on and on about him but its not the same as really getting to know him. So for those of you who haven’t met him, please do! He has a kind heart, he’s very family oriented, he’s humble and honest, and most importantly, he loves to give back to the community. So please give him a call and get to know him! Or if you want, ask me and i can tell you all about him!
Please give me your position on the Caruso mall expansion. What about the horrible traffic problems in Arcadia? I would like to see your proposal on how to reduce traffic. If people can’t get around, they will not come to Arcadia to shop.
Hi Gyl, the Caruso project is currently tied up in litigation. Nobody knows how long this legal battle is going to last. However, to answer your question, I support any sensible growth in Arcadia. I believe that businesses that provide sales tax revenue and do not negatively impact Arcadia should be welcome. Caruso’s project would have generated substantial sales tax revenue and be a great addition to Arcadia. Mr. Caruso had already committed to upgrading and replacing numerous traffic lights throughout Arcadia; therefore eliminating any future traffic problems and perhaps even improving them. But Please don’t just take my word for it, it’s documented in the cities environmental impact report (EIR). I encourage you to check it out yourself.
Now that piece of land that was to be occupied by Caruso is private property. That land is fair game to any developer that meets certain codes and requirements. What if a giant supermarket was built there instead of the Caruso project? How about a supersized thrift store? As residents of Arcadia, our concern is not really the Caruso project. Our concerns are whether any project going in would have any adverse affects to our quality of life; traffic included.
As for improving traffic in Arcadia, I propose to add police decoy cars to strategic locations in Arcadia. While redirecting or adding police officers to work traffic detail costs money, utilizing decoy police cars do not. People tend to drive more safely and adhere more strictly to traffic laws when they spot police presence. Not to mention, that it also deters crime. Also, I propose to eliminate parking on main traffic congested streets during certain hours of the day when traffic is high. How often have you driven down certain streets following behind a car when it suddenly stops and tries to parallel park. What happens is all the following cars in the same lane must stop or quickly cut into the next lane. These kinds of situations always stop traffic and increase congestion. I’d love to go into further detail with you and discuss any concerns you may have. If you’d like, please feel free to give me a call at 626-447-2935. I look forward to hearing from you Gyl.
You Sho you don’t have any idea of what is best for this city. Upgrading traffic light’s and the use of police “decoy” car’s to help manage traffic? The problem is volume of car’s not flow. Join all the organizations you want, have your son endorse you over and over and don’t forget to elimnate that pesky parallel parking problem, just not on this city council.
Only wanting to weigh in on the issue of traffic at this time, but does anyone remember when the track was in it’s “hay day” running at full capacity? What happened to all the cars that left the parking lot all at once? Oh, that’s right, Holly Ave. and El Monte Ave were turned into one way streets, flooding neighborhoods, and neighboring cities with race track and mall generated traffic.
Now we have a developer who is willing to address the issue of traffic by putting in place mitigation plans, and upgrading antiquated stop lights to help the “flow” move much easier. Read the EIR, it’s there, and when you’re done, ask yourself what Westfield Mall has done to help out with the traffic. Ever try to go north on Baldwin after the holidays….pack a lunch, you’ll need it while you wait.
Hi, thanks for replying “concerned”. Oftentimes traffic congestion in a city is a sign of growth, but overwhelming traffic discourages growth. Arcadia has many amazing businesses and attractions that bring patrons from neighboring areas. However, I do understand that many of the traffic problems in Arcadia are from commuters passing through Arcadia; there is not much the city council can do. We as residents of Arcadia have no control over the volume of cars coming through our city. We can’t go restricting roads for anyone except Arcadians now can we? The best solution is to help the cars pass or “flow” through Arcadia as quickly, efficiently and most importantly, as safely as possible.
Comprehensive studies by the U.S. Department of Transportation has shown that improving traffic signaling is one of the most cost effective ways to mitigate traffic congestion. The data can be found here: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/congestion/toolbox/service.htm
Also, my past experience as a police officer has shown that police decoy cars (police cruisers that have been taken out of commission) decrease traffic accidents and promote safer driving. It’s a cost effective way to reduce traffic accidents and promote safe driving, thus improving traffic flow. Other cities and police departments have used this strategy with positive results. Remember, our goal is to help cars passing through Arcadia pass as quickly and efficiently as possible. Here are links to some articles showing positive results from using police decoy cars: http://www.vah.com/departments/police/traffic_enforcement.aspx
http://articles.latimes.com/2000/jul/12/local/me-51575
http://articles.latimes.com/2000/may/15/local/me-30398
Regarding eliminating parking on traffic congested streets. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration has acknowledged that increasing road space and adding lanes has shown to be an effective strategy at reducing congestion. The data can be found here:
http://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/congestion_report/executive_summary.htm#strategies
While constructing and building wider roads is a proven strategy, it happens to be extremely costly. By eliminating parking on traffic-congested roads during traffic hours, we free up some road space for drivers. This extra wiggle room can offer drivers some space to make right turns without blocking any following cars.
These are just a few evidence-based ideas for the future. Everything takes time to implement and review. I always love having people critique my suggestions. Constructive criticism produces effective results. If you have any suggestions for improving Arcadia’s traffic problem, I’d love to hear them. Once again, you can reach me at 626-447-2935.
Thank you for your prompt response to the questions raised, and by answering those questions you have opened up the door for more questions.
If you proposal to improve traffic flow is with traffic signaling, would this be to just change the timing of the lights, or to replace the lights altogether? If your answer to the later question is “yes”, then where do you propose to get the money to do so? Reserves? A special tax?
The decoy police cars may or may not help, and I would like to see just how effective it would be over time when people come to realize they are being fooled into thinking someone is there, but what the heck, let’s try it.
Lastly, since the time when the roads are most congested is around 4-7 pm, when a majority of people get off work, where do you propose those that live in the areas being restricted park when they arrive home (like Huntington Dr.)? And what about the businesses that are open late and need the parking to draw in the customers? I would hate to see any more businesses pull up shop and move else where…their tax base is important to the City.
Hi Jake, I love hearing the concerns of Arcadians. Let me first state that I am PRO business in Arcadia. At the top of my campaign platform is increased sales tax revenues by promoting businesses in Arcadia. I was the president elect for the Arcadia Chamber of Commerce because I believe so passionately in promoting businesses in Arcadia. I stepped down to run for council in order to serve our community more effectively. However, you can still find me at all the chamber events. Now, let me address your concerns in order.
First, to answer your question on traffic signaling: big projects all start with small steps. Replacing traffic signals altogether is very expensive and not absolutely necessary at this time. I am only proposing to adjust traffic signal timing. The link I provided above in my earlier response by the D.O.T shows that traffic signal retiming is an extremely low cost way of improving traffic congestion. Retiming traffic signals generally cost between $500-$3000 per intersection and produces benefit cost ratios as high as 40 to 1.
Secondly, the use of police decoy cars has been proven to be an effective solution to many traffic and crime problems. Obviously we can’t leave a police car in one location and expect permanent results. When I was a police officer for Alhambra Police Department we used decoy cars with positive results. The link I provided earlier is a similar strategy to what I am proposing. If we replace our decoys with real police units every so often, I’m sure it will keep drivers on their toes.
Third, regarding the street parking, I agree with you; traffic congestion is heaviest during the hours of 4-7pm. I apologize for not being specific, I was not referring to Huntington Dr; I was referring to narrow streets such as Baldwin Ave where traffic congestion impacts the most. Many businesses on Baldwin already have parking lots in the back. By eliminating parking on streets such as Baldwin Ave during certain hours of the day, we free up some very valuable road space to help improve traffic flow (e.g. Wilshire Blvd in Los Angeles). I live 2 miles from the mall and during traffic hours, it can sometimes take me 15-20 minutes to get there. There is a very thin line between traffic from thriving businesses and traffic hurting businesses.
Finally, these are all ideas that must be subject to review and input from Arcadians. Good solutions always start with ideas. If equipment permits, decoy car use still need to be reviewed by Arcadia Police Department before implementation. The city and its residents must evaluate street parking and traffic signaling before approval. I am always open to and always welcome better ideas. If we all work together, I have no doubt we can come up with effective solutions to our problems. As always, you can reach me at 626-447-2935.
There are 2 issues where I think Arcadia is suffering and I’m willing to come up with suggestions and solutions that could keep what’s left of Arcadia great:
1. HOUSING: In South Arcadia, many homes sold are being undervalued as land only and demolished. In addition, the large trees that make Arcadia unique are being ripped out to make room for homes that are 7,000-10,000 square feet. I just read an appalling figure that the empty lot on 208 W. Wistaria Ave. has plans for a 9,356 square foot monstrosity. These homes often house 2-4 families and combined with increased condo density, Arcadia schools are overcrowded and residents have to pay for measures to expand. In the early 90′s, homes built were 4,000-5,000 square feet, in the late 90′s they got up to about 6,000 square feet and now they are at 7,000-10,000 square feet. When are we going to stop pretending these are single family residences? I fully support a home size cap based on the size of the lot. My suggestion would be the entire livable square footage not to exceed 30 or 33% of the entire lot. These new homes are boxy, hideous, have terrible landscaping, no yard space, and have tarnished Arcadia’s traditional neighborhoods, but at this point, it’s more important to focus on the fact that they’re being used as multi-family residences and create density problems and lower our standard of living in Arcadia. Homes in Pasadena and Sierra Madre are worth more per square foot because they’re seen as more than just as “scrapers” that have land value only.
2. BUSINESSES: Arcadia is beginning to look a lot like Alhambra and San Gabriel with businesses that cater only to one demographic and do not provide adequate English translations to make them accessible to ALL Arcadians. As long time resident, we have to venture outside of Arcadia now to find decent shopping. The quality and diversity of stores in Arcadia has gone down the drain. I’d imagine Westfield has done a lot to keep competition out of Arcadia, but why can’t Arcadia make itself more attractive for reputable companies?
The most damaging blow to Arcadia is opening the ad section of local newspapers and noticing that these “Day Spas” in Arcadia appear to be soliciting adult services. If Arcadia is to be taken as a serious place to do business, we can’t allow businesses to continue claiming to be one type of business and acting as a sleazy outlet for adult services or fraud. Valley Blvd in San Gabriel and Las Tunas Drive in Temple City are riddled with fronts and fraud rings and are prime reasons why Arcadia needs to make sure businesses that operate in the manner they claim.
San Marino is another upscale community and has done an excellent job of keeping small businesses that are attractive to ALL residents. Arcadia needs to learn from them. Ross was doing well in Arcadia before LA Fitness moved in, why don’t we encourage them to come back to Arcadia?
What businesses does Arcadia need? I frequently go to La Canada and Glendora where they have attractive new shopping centers with great small restaurants and great retail shops. Some of the shops include Home Goods, Barnes and Noble, Tillys, Verizon Wireless, AT&T. Some restaurants include Corner Bakery Cafe, Chipotle, Wing Stop, and small pizza places. In addition, other cities have welcomed Henry’s Markets and Fresh n’ Easy, while Arcadia is limited to chains. Arcadia high has 3700 students, I would imagine a quick restaurant such as Chipotle or Corner Bakery Cafe near Arcadia High as a big hit. I also see the popularity of the library and envision a Barnes and Noble doing very well in Arcadia. Everyone in Arcadia is on a cell phone all the time, why is it we have no corporate store for carriers such as Verizon Wireless or AT&T? If you want to get your phone serviced or get a new phone in store, you have to go into a neighboring city. I know Arcadia can’t just push these businesses in, but it’s clear that cities such as La Canada, Glendora, and even Monrovia are much more successful at promoting new REPUTABLE business within their cities.
All in all, Arcadia is a great place to live, but my parents being residents of 33 years will tell you Arcadia has lost a lot of what made it unique. Arcadia was once a modest community where young families came to live and shared a common vision and worked together to keep Arcadia beautiful. Tree-lined neighborhoods once had harmonious ranch style homes with wonderful landscaping. Live Oak was once a thriving street of independently owned stores, and now sits with mostly empty stores and decaying appearance. Baldwin Avenue used to be alive with department stores, Italian bakeries, and great restaurants, during the holiday season was festively decoratd and now is reduced to day spas and tea houses.
The problem I see with Arcadia now is the incompatible goals of long time residents and newcomers. In San Gabriel and Alhambra, it’s clear the long time residents were pushed out and much of what was there was destroyed. I would like Arcadia to take the route San Marino took, where it embraces the newcomers, but never loses site of what made it great in the first place. Great schools, attractive housing, abundant trees, active community, and working together was what made Arcadia great. Let’s not throw that away by allowing developers to bulldoze our history for a quick profit, or tarnish the cities image with false business fronts.
Brett M, you have touched all of the issues that I myself would have mentioned. I work with the public and am required to see drivers licenses on a daily basis. I sometimes have 3 or 4 different families with the same address. I also know of people whom come to this country pregnant, ready to give labor within 2 months and will remain here in Arcadia in one or more of these “monstrosity” type homes until they deliver. The homes that do so have several different beds to cater to these pregnant women and their families as they await the birth of their newborn.
I agree with Terry. We speak English in this country, and everyone who serves the public should have a strong command of the English language.
I am really concerned about the “anchor baby” factories that TINA has just mentioned. Where, for a sum of money, a visiting foreigner can have a baby and remain in this country through illegal corridors.
What are you going to do about this issue and the issues that this matter causes – speaking specifically about our over-crowded schools and the many who attend them that have arrived her by illegal means or are “anchor babies”.
Hi Terry and Jerry, as i mentioned at the forums, i am not by any means a trained public speaker but i do speak english…as well as 3 other languages. I would not have been the president elect for the Arcadia Chamber of Commerce if i couldn’t speak english. Nor would i have been elected to leadership positions with the other organizations that i belong to.
Jerry, i’d love to speak to you in person or on the phone so that we can discuss the “anchor baby” issues you mentioned. It would also give me a chance to show you that i do indeed speak english. As always, you can reach me at 626-447-2935. I look forward to hearing from you both.
Sho Tay,
I am curious to hear your responses in this open forum as well as other Arcadia citizens. I would like to hear your response to the above issue as well and not have you corner one of our citizens to a private phone call. What are you trying to hide that can’t be discussed with all citizens of Arcadia ?
Dear Mr. Tay,
I admire your ability to reply to “Jerry M” and “Terry Green” with civility and politeness. When one receives such disrespectful, rude, and inappropriate comments from ignorant individuals, it can certainly be difficult to do, but you clearly took the high road.
I am not willing to give you the benefit of the doubt about your ability to communicate with the english speaking citizens of Arcadia and you have the endorsement of police and fire but, I view you as the best of a bad bunch of asian speaking candidates. Baldwin Ave. from Huntington Dr. to Naomi look’s more and more like Chinatown everyday. The house’s put up in the lower and upper rancho are nothing but eye sore’s and harbor “anchor babies” whose parent’s don’t use english as their primary language. They will grow up and overcrowd our schools, jam our street’s and make a city once known as ARCADIA, community of home’s, to ARCASIA, home of the dumpling house.
Today it’s the first time I visited this website and read some constructive opinions and different issues expressed by various citizens. I mainly interested in responding to Brett M. I moved to Arcadia in 1992 and both of my children were born in Arcadia. Now they are attending Arcadia schools. My husband and I were immigrants from Hong Kong and both attended college here (Go Bruins!). We loved this country and decided to stay. What Arcadia attracted me was it’s uniqueness and treeline streets. I live in the Santa Anita village area and luckily, there aren’t any monster houses in my neighborhood. Thanks to our hard working Santa Anita Village homeowner association. We have strict rules about how big our house can be in compare to our yard size. Those huge houses in south of Duarte have been bothering me for years…Many of them stand out like sore thumbs right next to their median size ranch homes. I agree with the 30-33% ratio, the size of the house has to be proportional to the size of the yard, and enough set back from the front curb.
Citizens in Arcadia are encouraged to report houses that habitat more than one family. You can report to the city and they’ll do the rest to evict those families.
About the business, well, it’s hard to avoid the Asian markets expanding when there are high population of Asians who live in Arcadia. All the places I went have English signs and menus, so even though they have a big sign written in Chinese, but there’s always an English translation if you’re really interested in trying out the places. In the same tokens, when I went to Thai town or Korean town I don’t mind their foreign language signs, rather think they are authentic.
Lastly, the world is changing whether it’s good or bad or whether you like it or not, often times old timers have a hard time adjusting the new changes. Arcadia is not the only place that changes and grows rapidly in the past decade in southern California. Surely, Arcadia is a lot different from the old days, where Huntington Drive used to have a street tram that ran from Arcadia to Monrovia. There wasn’t even a high school in Arcadia, the youths have to take the tram to go to Monrovia high school. I have to agree I am too annoyed by the overdeveloped housing and condos. Traffic gets so bad that I try to avoid Duarte Road at traffic time nowadays.
Anyway, got to go and will blog later
Steven Tsai,
Please take your own advice and take the “high road” to one of your massage parlors, day spas, night clubs and dumpling houses. Stop by one of those hideous houses you all build and provide for twenty people, grab a Rosetta Stone tape of the ENGLISH language and head over to one of your wonderful resturants, you know with 6 you get eggroll and learn the language.
I must agree that public speaking is a major part of public office. However a good public speaker does not make a good a Councilman. I know many great salesmen who are great at speaking and making people believe what they say, but they are ALL talk. I believe that an elected official should be elected based on his cores values, work ethic, and commitment to his community. A councilman is a servant of his community, doing work that others will not do for themselves.
Arcadia is in need of an Asian representative that will break the stereotypes of Asians. I think that Sho Tay is hard working individual that accepts his weakness, but still works to achieve in what he believes in. I have seen a lot on bantering about the Asian candidates and I believe it is because of the negative light we give ourselves. How do you drive with a full face mask on and cloth gloves with no gripping? Haha…but really not a laughing matter.
Sho Tay breaks those stereotypes, a good example of an Asian American who has embraced the American Culture, thriving as a productive citizen and community leader, even when English was not his first language. Sho Tay is true success story to the American Dream and who I believe to be a strong representation of a real Arcadian. We need a council man who understands the history of Arcadia, understands where the city has been in order to bring the city to the future. Elect a councilman that has been here and has shown his worth, not one that speaks English well.
Hope/ Faith/ Charity
Brother Tiler
The Arcadia Police Officers’ Association is honored to endorse Sho Tay, Bob Harbicht and Mickey Segal for City Council. We have known these gentlemen for many years to selflessly and humbly volunteer their time to the community in which we serve and protect without any desires for credidation. We feel that these gentlemen have the education, knowledge and fortitude to represent the residents of this beautiful community.
The bottom line is that the coverage of this election has been from people who’s commentary is focused largely on stereotypes and assumptions. They are lumping Asians as one voting block with one agenda, and Caucasians as the other voting block with one agenda. It just is not that simple. The most positive thing candidates and residents can do is to find common ground and work towards common goals. Contrary to the stereotypes, there are many Asians who do not want monster mansions built in Arcadia, and many Asian business owners who feel that signs in English only are sufficient. Also contrary to stereotypes, many Caucasians DON’T fear change, and are welcoming of a diverse city.
Arcadia lacks a sense of its history (we have few historic home/site designations) and we have no clear mission or sense of direction for growth. San Marino also has a large Asian population but has maintained the rich history and character of the city. The residents that move to San Marino know the guidelines when they move in and they either respect them or choose to live elsewhere. The Homeowners Associations north of Huntington Drive and Foothill have done a great job of preserving the character of the neighborhood and ensuring that new construction is harmonious with surrounding homes. The problem with Arcadia’s current building codes for homes is that we lack many of the restrictions that nearly surrounding cities have, so developers see South Arcadia as a demolition derby to build the largest homes possible with no regard for harmony, and leave resident stuck with the result.
As for business signage, I firmly believe that Arcadia should be allowed to restrict foreign language to a degree and Arcadia residents approved the current limits by a great majority. A business with Chinese as the first and dominating language on the sign is clearly telling potential customers that they cater only to the Chinese. Some are very genuine and do not discriminate against non-Chinese, but many others do. Like it or not, English is the only semi-universal language in this country, and sufficient English on a sign is the ONLY way to ensure equal access for non-Chinese. If you go to Valley Blvd in San Gabriel, every sign is in Chinese with little to no English, and even then the translations simply don’t match, thus discriminating against any non-Chinese person who may want to shop there. If the Chinese business is a front or has something to hide, it should not be allowed to operate in the first place. Many “day spas” and “salons” have Chinese characters which imply adult services are offered.
MY SUGGESTION: Arcadia mandate that all signage in Chinese must translate to an English equivalent. Have a translator fluent in both languages in code enforcement and fine businesses that are out of compliance. This way, businesses are open to all, White, Black, Asian, Latino, etc.
As a long time resident, it is becoming harder and harder to find businesses/restaurants within the city that cater to people other than the Chinese. Even our Japanese and Korean neighbors have expressed concerns over the lack of diversity and quality of businesses in town. I know it’s an unpopular thing to say, but I will have the courage to say it, non-Chinese residents of Arcadia often have to shop outside of Arcadia because they don’t feel welcomed by businesses on Baldwin or Duarte anymore. It’s as if we are being pushed out of the city and nobody has addressed it. I ask, why can’t we attract more diverse businesses/restaurants that appeal to all people regardless of group? Arcadia has had NO exciting new businesses enter the city recently and you have to wonder when you see Monrovia, Pasadena, Glendora, and La Canada getting new shopping centers with great diversity in choices. My guess is Westfield has bullied competition from entering Arcadia, but it’s also possible that we have a problem that keeps businesses from taking an interest in Arcadia. In a weak economy we need tried and true chains stores to open, so perhaps we need to attract businesses such as Barnes and Noble, Ross, Chipotle, Home Goods, Trader Joe’s, Henry’s Markets, etc. As an “upscale” community, and considering its size, Arcadia has the WORST business selection.
There are extremes, people who want Arcadia the way it was back in the 60′s, and there are people who want Arcadia transformed into a fully mansionized Chinese only city. Yet, I’d say the average citizen wants to find a happy medium, where everyone feels comfortable in this city. San Marino has been able to do this, why can’t Arcadia?
FINAL THOUGHTS: Arcadia has long been regarded as a premier upscale community, but in recent years, we have slipped greatly. Other cities such as Pasadena and Monrovia have cleaned up significantly and been able to attract profitable businesses through smart economic development and willingness to work with businesses. For too long, Arcadia has touted it’s schools while ignoring all the other challenges facing the city. It’s time we have a council that forms a clear vision for Arcadia, especially with economic development. Our schools are overcrowded, attract no diversity, and taxpayers pay through the nose to add onto them. This isn’t going to be something to be proud of. We can continue on this path and become like San Gabriel and Alhambra where streets are bumper to bumper, there are 3-4 families living in each home, there is no diversity in businesses, and only certain groups are welcome, or we can unify Arcadia, limit the density explosion, and work to restore the strong sense of community we once had.
Brett,
you have some very valid points. There is no denying that the signage problem in Arcadia has gotten out of hand. As a matter of fact, i think the signage problem may even be part of the reason why Arcadia has had a drop in sales tax revenues. I’d bet a large percentage of Arcadian’s are dining and shopping outside the city because they just can’t read the signs anymore.
About the new businesses, i certainly agree we need to attract a diverse array of businesses. I would personally love to see a Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, or Office Depot/Staples in Arcadia. Perhaps even a few nice family style restaurants (instead of letting Pasadena steal all the sales tax revenue). We’ve been talking about spicing up downtown Arcadia and the Live Oak area for quite some time now. I can’t think of a better place to have these nice restaurants and shops. Maybe the Goldline might liven things up a bit. But if i am elected, i will do everything in my power to help attract new and diverse businesses to Arcadia. The city council needs the input from residents like you and value your suggestions. We all need to speak up and make our wishes known. As always, you can reach me on my cell at 626-447-2935.
I spent 2 hours with Sho on Friday night talking with him about the election and if elected what he hoped to accomplish. I had no difficulty understanding him at any time, I think he speaks good english and put’s his words together very well. I believe he is not interested in forwarding any racial group ahead of another. He has a good understanding of the problems this city faces now and how we got to this point. I had been very critical of the views of asian candidate’s in my past blogs and still have that toward Jason Lee and Paul Cheng. They think the city is an occupation by the race, past mayors and council member’s rolled over, the current council has no backbone, Harbrict, Chandler, Amundson, the city manager are all nothing but nodders and yes men. It was elected officals like them that have us to the point we are. It is way to late to change and it will only get worse over the next ten years. At least with Sho he is willing to try and find answers, be equal in judgement and not favor one over the other. In the end I think he will try and help the citizens both old and new.
Sho Tay:
You say that you are very proud of being endorsed by the City employees unions, including police and fire. But there is apparently a conflict between the interests of the Police Officers’ union and those of Arcadia citizens. The union always demands pay increases and retirement benefit increases despite the fact that many people in the private sectors have been laid off. These increases are our tax-payers’ money.
The police union’s criterion for endorsing a candidate is apparently not “his ability to fairly represent his constituents,” but his willingness to work together (to cooperate) with the police union to give what the union demands. In other words, the union is looking for a puppet on the city council to serve the union’s interests.
Didn’t the police union contribute $2,000 in campaign funds to you? Isn’t the police union doing the phone banking for you to help get you elected?
The unions should stay out of the election!
Sho,
You have mentioned recently about the dirty campaign, and if i am not wrong other Asian candidates were implied.
I have been following this city council race on this web site, Chinese Daily News and other public media if possible. I feel this is a relatively positive compaign, i have not seen any one openly attacked other candidates. Although i did see one councilman repeatedly criticized all three Asian candidates for their lack of experience in Chinese Daily News.
Mickey Segal,one of the candidates and a former mayor, on the contrary, openly indicated his believe that one Asian candidate should be elcted to the city council in the Chinese Daily News, although he is short of endorsing any one.
I believe, Sho, you should mention who did the dirty campaign and what, and the source of your accusations, especially when you may be implying some others did it.
I also noticed that some of the negative comments laid on you have not been responded; for example, how do you stand when there is a conflict between the interests of Arcadia citizens and city employees, now that you are endorsed by the unions, you received $2000 donation from them, and the unions help your campaign by making recorded phone calls to the Arcadia citizens.
I believe donations are inevitable in any elections, but it is important that any candidate should still stand firmly for the best interests of the citizens who elect him.
Hi Mary, yes I do have an Amway business but I’ve never sold anything to anyone out of my garage. I’m not aware of the incident you’re referring to and I assure you it’s nothing more than a rumor. Also, I don’t run my businesses in a deceitful way, nor do I cheat any of my customers. It is my belief that customer satisfaction always comes first, and that you should always treat people the same way you would like to be treated. If I practiced bad business practices, I wouldn’t be successful in any of my endeavors. For example, my indoor firing range has been in business for more than 20 years now, and is the only indoor firing range in all of the San Gabriel Valley. The 20 years of success, was not achieved through bad business practices. Rather, it was achieved because of proper business practices and because I had a vision for the future.
To Mary Geisler and Sheng Chang:
Traditionally, the Arcadia Police Officers Association and the Arcadia Firefighters Association have been involved with our city elections. This election, there are three seats and so the Police and Fire Associations endorsed three candidates. Every election, the organizations go through detailed interviews with each candidate to see whom they can best work. I believe the APOA even does background checks on the candidates they interview! The council and the city employees must work together synergistically to make sure the needs of Arcadia’s citizens are met. Can you imagine the ruckus that would ensue if the council could not work together with the city employees? Therefore, it’s important that the men and women who keep our city safe support a candidate that they can work with and communicate with. However, don’t confuse support and an endorsement as some form of bribery. I have no doubt that all the candidates running know they are serving the citizens of Arcadia. You can be sure that I will stand firmly in representing the best interests of all Arcadians.
Sho Tay:
You do not understand the kind of synergy between the City Council and its employees. The City Council Members are like Board Directors making policies and setting goals. The employees are the agents paid to carry out these policies and goals, which are to benefit the citizens and the citizens only. You are to serve the citizens, not a couple of hundred of union members. Now you have taken the union’s money, God knows who you are going to serve.
Hi Mary, are you suggesting that the men and women of the Arcadia Police Officers Association bribe the 3 candidates they endorsed? I hope not. As I stated earlier, It’s the tradition of the APOA to endorse and contribute campaign funds to candidates they support. This is NOT something new.
I do indeed understand the synergy between the city council and its employees. Your analogy suggests that the city employees are managed by the city council, somewhat like an employee-employer relationship. One thing I learned as a business owner is that if you want a successful business, you need to have hardworking employees. Employees work hard when they are treated with respect. There should be clear communication and understanding between the employees and the employer in order to properly communicate goals to be achieved. As I mentioned earlier, just because the organizations endorse a candidate does not mean they control the candidate. The organization’s endorsement only means that they have chosen a candidate that they feel they can work with and are qualified. You are right; the city council serves the citizens of Arcadia. I believe the city council needs to be leaders that can effectively communicate the interests of Arcadians’ to the city manager and ultimately, the city employees.
Dear Mr. Sho
As I remember this year is not your first time running for Arcadia City Council, I would like to know what was the reason you failed to be elected for the past several campaigns?
Thanks
Hi “Voter”:
Yes, I ran two times before and one must assume that I didn’t get elected because Arcadians didn’t give me a majority number of votes. Perhaps, they didn’t think I was ready.
Sho,
Thank you for your response to the comments of mine and MG.
What we are saying is that the city is like a corporation, and the citizens/voters is like stock holders, mangements are like managements and employees of the corporation, and the city council is like the board of directors.
If the management of a corporation influences to select the directors of the board, then who is the ultimate boss of the company? the board of directors or the managements? Why, because the directors are selected due to the influence/choice of the managements.
Could the board of directors act on the best interests of the stock sholders or not under this situation?
The same applies to the city council: when its members are supported and helped by the employee unions to get elected, then would they act for the best interests of the citizens/voters or the unions.
You have received $2000 donation from the unions, endorsements from the unions and their telephone calls to help your campaign, if you get elected, would you just dust off and move on and do not care a bit about the interests of the unions when you make decisions or you will keep their interests in mind.
That is where conflict of interest arises.
That is what we, the citizens, will have concerns when there is a choice for you between the two.
You really can not draw a clear line between the two when you are elected with the help of the unions.
Please do not get me wrong, i support the police and fire departments, but i just do not think it is proper for them to openly and actively invole in the city council elections.
Mary and Sheng,
Both of you are so far from reality it is laughable. In the past 100 years unions have backed polictical candidate’s for public office not only in national, state and yes city elections. Union member’s are citizen’s just like you and me and are intitled to a voice. Having a working relationship with and putting their interest’s ahead for the voting majority is not part of the deal. If you have an issue with the union’s backing candidates, they did interview all six, come to the next council meeting an voice your concern, you have avoice make it heard.
This city is not a corperation run by a CEO or board of directors. Council members are fiduciaries of the land and the citizens. They are voted in not to show a profit but to safeguard the citizens, review the laws, make change’s for the overall benefit of the community.
This city is divided along racial line’s for the most part, ignore it, look the other way, whatever, it is what it is. Polictical Correct or not it isn’t going to go away anytime soon. Choose to live with it or do something about it. Blame the past city council’s who looked the other way and allowed the city to become what it is.
Please go to Wikipedia and read how Arcadia is described that should give you an answer.
Dear Sho:
I am concerned because you have not presented any platform that I would like of a councilmember.
No one denies that you are a nice person. But nice people cannot take us out of the issues that Arcadia faces.
You have mentioned that you want Dummy cars used to slow down traffic. You want to put in a Staples or Office Depot in Downtown Arcadia.
Apart from that, I am unsure what platform, if any, you have for our great city. And frankly, you never tell us how you will do something, you just tell us there is an issue pending before this city. Anyone can do that.
Perhaps you should write a detailed position on what Arcadians can expect from you. I know I have been waiting for months now.
Goodwin,
You are correct that a nice guy doesn’t always work, but I know Sho Tay is a nice guy that ALSO put in the WORK. If you get to know him you will know that he is man of his word and not afraid to get down to business. I have to argue that with the Arcadia election or any election a candidate cannot stand on just one platform, he puts himself out to be an easy target to be knocked down. Even stating your political party can hinder candidate’s chances in Arcadia elections. Knowing Sho very personally, I urge you to take the opportunity to call him directly and speak with him. He does have a lot of ideas and is always open to suggestions. Maybe that is why he hasn’t created a platform because there are so many issues to deal with and stating your complete platform is dangerous. If there is a platform to be said it is Community Unity, without working together, young and old Arcadians, our city will never be able to progress. This weekend I was having lunch at a restaurant when Sho came in, he ended up staying almost 1 hour extra so that the owner of the restaurant and people of the community could meet and talk to him very candid. I believe that we should vote for a canidate that we can be open and communicate with than one that has a slogan and platform that he doesn’t even know if he can uphold.
Why should I vote for a man if he does not even have definite views of his own?
I’m not sure why Mr. Sho hasn’t created a platform, is it because by creating one he could limit a lot of potential votes? Maybe that’s why he is open to everything so that he will not creat opponents for his election.
Also, a good council member should be the leader for the city, and a good leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way. Dont forget innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.
I hope Mr. Sho is not simply just a follower of those who donated him money.
It’s interesting to read people thinks Arcadia was an upscale community, I would love to think that too because I live in it. However, I can truly see Arcadia was a city for working class people in early days, at least 75% of them. Just look at the old stores and shops that were there before. Santa Anita Mall (now Westfield) was very different when I moved here in 1992. There were no upscale shops, to be honest, I went to Pasadena, even all the way to South Coast to shop back then. My house located in the Village and was built in 1947. Most of the houses around here were built at that time and they were moderate houses. Even in upper rancho area, the lot are bigger, but still not too ‘upscale’ even with old days standard. That doesn’t bother me though because that what’s Arcadia all about. Arcadia has turned into an expensive neighborhood because of our good schools, thanks to the Asian immigrants too, I bet they are all paying high property taxes. Unlike San Marino, it was an very upscale neighborhood, they don’t even allow apartments or condos. San Marino was able to raise 40 Million dollars to renovate Arcadia High School, all the money came from the residents, averaging more than $1000/family. Can Arcadians do that?
I too agree adding English signage on business because if I’m the owner of the business, I rather market to much large population than a particular ethnic group. I don’t agree that non-Chinese Arcadian found it difficult to find non-chinese restaurants/shops in Arcadia. What about the restaurants and food court in the Mall, Coco’s restaurant, Maria’s Calender, Burger King, McDonald, Taco Bells, the Derby’s, and a whole bunch on Duarte Road. I can name more than 50 of them. As a matter of fact, there are more non-chinese restaurants in Arcadia than Chinese restaurants. That’s why Asian Arcadian would go to San Gabriel for a lot more choices. I don’t know why Mr. Brett M make it sounds like he’s not welcomed…???? I rather think he’s not welcoming the Chinese in Arcadia, I haven’t read one good thing he mentioned about Asian residents…
Land S,
Not to speak for Brett but, for a very few there isn’t one good thing to mention about Asian residents. They will not intimidate me nor disrespect me. I’m ready, I have taken the step’s I feel I needed to take. Please let me know when it’s “go time”.
Looking at the estimates, Arcadia’s Chinese population, excluding other Asian groups, is roughly 30-35%. That still leaves a majority of the population that does not read/speak Chinese. Nearly every new business on Baldwin is in Chinese, with nothing meaningful in English on the sign. This is essentially shutting out 65% of Arcadia residents from being able to shop there. I’m for people’s right to put what they want on a sign, but it should NOT be done in a way that discriminates.
Like I said earlier, my idea would be to have an ordinance that requires each sign with foreign language be required to have an English translation which clearly states the nature of the business. For example, if it’s a restaurant, having 5 characters in Chinese, then having ABC next to it, essentially keeps non-Chinese customers out because they have no idea what it is. Bilingual code enforcement officers could ensure the success of such an idea.
I really get the feeling that many council members in Homeowners Associations of Arcadia don’t understand or care about the mess in South Arcadia, and have done nothing to fix it. At the corner of Baldwin Ave. and Sharon Rd there was an oddly shaped lot, where a developer requested a variance to build 2 homes on shallow lots that would have made the street look complete. The city council denied the variance and now there is a 7000+ square foot home facing Baldwin that looks like an apartment complex. Didn’t anyone look at a mockup of what this would look like? It seems to me that Arcadia’s regulations are too loose to begin with, and when faced with a decision, they go by generalities rather than considering the circumstances. Anoakia was demolished for 31 homes, which was a great loss for the city.
Are we proud to be the ONLY city that allows you to build the biggest and ugliest homes in the San Gabriel Valley? Are we proud that we have no quality retail on Duarte Rd or Live Oak? Are we proud that we have an overcrowded high school that only is welcoming to one ethnic group?
I disagree with Concerned on one thing though. The Asian residents of Arcadia have contributed many good things to the community. We are fortunate to live on a street where young Asian families move in and fix up the older homes and keep the landscaping nice. Yes, there are Asians who use Arcadia for it’s schools and construct monster mansions for 4 families with no regard for anyone but themselves. If we come together as a community, establish new guidelines for homes and businesses, and establish goals for the city, I think we’ll start attracting more diversity within the city. People that move to cities such as San Marino, La Canada, South Pasadena, and Monrovia respect the history, and move in knowing they can’t just demolish everything. Arcadia has an open door for people to come to Arcadia and do whatever they wish, regardless of the negative impact on current residents. If Arcadia sends the message to incoming residents that we respect and preserve our history, they will too.
Bottom line, Arcadia has changed too much to “go back to the way things used to be”, but that doesn’t mean we can’t ensure that future development is harmonious with what’s already here, or that we can’t unify under common goals.
Dear concerned,
There is a difference in interests for the people who live in Arcadia and those who do not live in Arcadia. Why, because why should i care about what happens in Arcadia if i do not live there, unless i have a property in Arcadia. This is common sense.
If a city employee does not live in Arcadia, i believe the above principle applies generally.
Of course you can argue that as long as i do a good job, it does not matter whether i live within or without Arcadia.
That is correct in general.
However when we talk about the salary and compensation fo the employees, then some degree of conflicts of interest arises. Becasue the residents want to spend the least monies to hire the best employees. On the other side, the employees want to have the best salaries becaue they think they are the best.
The unions naturally represent the interests of the employees, but the city council represents or should represent the interests of the residents.
Therefore, if the council members are elected with the help of the unions then when it is the time of decision, who should he stand for? Does he just forget what the unions have done for him, or he will remember those favors and return them when he casts the vote. It is a common sense that this will present a difficult time for that very councilmember.
For a small city like Arcadia, you can imagine many employees do not live in Arcadia.
You are right that unions are involved actively in the elections of larger cities like Los Angeles or the state wide elections.
But for a large city like LA, you have more people who work there also live there, so the interests of the employees and the residents become more and more similar. For the statewide elections, essentially all voters and employees live in the State of California. So in a sense, there is no conflict of interest issues.
It becomes purely a party issue. The unions support the Democrats and against the Republicans.
Of course, big corporations still use influences of various kinds to achieve their purposes, that is another kind of conflict of interests.
There is nothing wrong to use analogy between the city council/the city and board of director/the company, It is just to show that city council is important to the city just like board of director is important to the corporation. The BOD will fire its CEO if the latter does not do a good job, similarly, if the city manager does not do a good job, the city council can fire him.
Arcadia is not perfect, just like all other cities, it is not fair to blame any one for it. I do not think any changes that happen to Arcadia in the past years are all bad.
We have Caruso coming, that is going to change Arcadia a lot again, it is good or bad, depending on what aspect you are looking at.
Changing is not necessarily bad, we Arcadians should all strive to make those changes be better for us.
Sho Tay has violated election policies. He parked a vehicle with his banner right in front of the santa anita polling place and had a cameraman standing there with him, they were speaking chinese and I was unable to understand them. This is a violation that no campaigning take place within 100 feet of the polling place. How can we trust a man who cheats and doesn’t even abide by the policies?
Hi Brett, this morning when I went to vote at Santa Anita polling place the camera people were already there. As I stepped out of my car, they approached me to ask a few questions so I took a few minutes to answer them. I also made sure that my car was parked far enough from the polls to avoid breaking election policies. I’m sorry you feel the need to attack me here on 3 different blogs. I didn’t see you this morning but I would have loved to meet you in person. It would have been nice to finally put a face to a name. But I do hope I get the opportunity to meet you in the future.
Very truly yours, Sho Tay.
I’m not convinced, your suv with elect sho tay banner was parked in the spot closest to the entrance, you had 4 people with you and you looked posed for the camera, I. Practically had to walk through your group. By law there are no campaign endorsements allowed within 100 feet. Between this mistake and the postcards all in chinese, I don’t feel you’re playing fair and you obviously have somespecial interest behind you.
Brett,
I can’t say anything about the incident that you claim to have taken place this morning since I was not there but I can speak about the postcards all in chinese.
The postcards were a mistake made by the printing company and was corrected immediately the day after. Sho Tay was very upset about the fact that the postcards in all chinese were sent out. It is not fair to blame Mr. Tay for a mistake that the printing company made.
You are so full of cr@p Brett! Can you possibly exaggerate anymore? I’ve been following your blog replies and I am so tired of hearing you cry and complain about your neighbors’ houses being bigger than yours. It’s so obvious from your comments that you’re a democrat. I have known Sho for years now and have worked with him on many committees. I can personally vouch for Sho’s character and honesty. If he says he parked far enough from the polls then I’ll stand behind him 100%. There is no way that man would have knowingly broke election rules. We all know you’re a Chang supporter (dems supporting dems!) and that’s fine. But I’m sick of the way you conduct yourself. If you didn’t like the way Sho conducted himself this morning and you were actually there (you probably weren’t) then you should have told him at the moment! Instead of coming home and being the big man behind the computer. Was it really necessary to post multiple times or is this just the nature of chang supporters?
WOW Brett, isn’t it a total coincidence that the media “happened “to be there when Sho Tay showed up to vote? Sure this happens during a Presidenal election but NOT for a local election.Sorry I don’t believe it. Mr. Tay, you have explaining to do………..
As an independent voter, I’m disgusted with a city council that for years has voted to destroy historical sites for short term boosts in tax revenue. And not give residents any say. These monster houses bring in 4-5 families, destroy privacy, increase traffic and allow 1-2 developers to monopolize the city development with no regard for residents.
Past councils endorsed sho tay because he supports keeping the status quo which does nothing to fix the problems we face yet keeps police and fire unions happy.
HA! An independent voter? I think a better term for you would be an uninformed voter, or maybe a misinformed voter! An independent voter wouldn’t believe all the political propaganda and lies. Since when did endorsements from former council members mean keeping the status quo. Use your head Brett! Maybe Paul wants to turn Arcadia into Monterey Park, Alhambra, San Gabriel or El Monte since their council endorses him. Better yet! Maybe he wants to turn us into a mixture of all those cities you so despise! See where this is going? Do you think that MAYBE, just MAYBE these endorsers endorse candidates because of their dedication and character traits?! See Brett, I have my complaints with the current council, just as you do. BUT I won’t go onto a public forum and smear their names like you have! That’s what separates the men from the boys- CLASS.
Take my last and final point to heart, Brett, it will take you far in life – Don’t be so quick to believe the hype.
If Arcadia continues down its current path, we’ll become a city of 90,000 people where all original homes are demolished and replaced with dispensible homes that are replaced 20 years and have no landscaping. The schools will be so crowded, we’ll have to build more, traffic will be bumper to bumper, businesses will only cater to the Chinese and everyone who doesn’t like it will be forced to move. This is why so many long time residents of arcadia left for Glendora or La verne where they don’t feel like outsiders in their own community. Baldwin Ave businesses only cater to the chinese and give everyone the middle finger. Paul Cheng is the only candidate who has the guts to speak the truth. We can either call south arcadia a lost cause and vote for people who will watch it as a sinking ship, or we can learn from glendora and monrovia, preserve what we have left, form a strong mission as a city and attract more diverse business.
Brett M,
Why you would Arcadia want to be like other cities? Shouldn’t other cities want to be like Arcadia? You can’t compare other cities because the population of citizens and values of the cities are different. We must do what we can improve our weaknesses and develop our strengths of our community. I believe that Arcadia is a way better city than any the media has been comparing it to. South Arcadia is not lost it is only developing, it will never turn into Valley Blvd because the community and our city layout will not allow it. If you are talking about the great Monrovia downtown districts have heard of D.A.M.A.G.E gang task force they have out there? Or Glendora budget deficit? All cities have good things that Arcadia doesn’t have, but I know for a fact that Arcadia has more good attributes that others cities wish they can have. In the future we should be looking for leaders that can bridge the development of old and new Arcadia. We are the Community of Homes.
Wow what an election… it was quite a journey for my family and all the supporters who has work diligently to support my uncle Sho Tay. I am disgusted at what the beautiful people of Arcadia have been put through with this ugly campaign process. I feel sorry that both our community and our youth has been exposed with such hypocrisy of Arcadia being a united community. As two Asian candidates were rumoring against each like high school elections, all Asian candidates were viewed as childish and unprofessional. I know that Sho Tay tried his best to not associated with the negative publicity, but as they say “all Asians look a like”, no the saying is “United we stand, apart we fall.” I am quite disappointed at the people who were “turned off to vote.” It is our right and privilege to vote in America, we are responsible to make sure that the people who can best represent our community are elected, but to not vote because of media slandering means individual are weak minded or just don’t care. I believe that the gentlemen that were elected (two who I have met throughout my childhood) will continue to make Arcadia a top notch city as they have for many years before. Our city is coming to a strong developing point where the decision and changes made in the next 2 years will affect our city for many years to come. I truly appreciate the people who came out to vote and have come to know and support Sho Tay. Those that have gotten to know him will contest that he is a true and honest man, a man of moral and strong convictions, and man is a model citizen and a representation of all that is Arcadia. I know that you will still see the TAY family name all around Arcadia, as we are very big in community involvement and have been for the past 22 years. God Bless.