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John,
Our City rails about insiders and the political revolving door and special interests. We are angered that big money tries to buy elections and politicians. And sometimes it just smacks you in the face.
Let’s connect some dots. Let’s go back more than a year, and remember that Mayor Faulconer had spent a year before the Chargers left working in a back room deal with Nick Stone and FS Investors in an engineered land grab for the Mission Valley site. FS tried to get it approved at the City Council, and it almost happened – what is called Direct Adopt – were it not for the first elected official to expose this Wall Street heist – namely Barbara Bry. When that failed, they spent over $20 million promoting the SoccerCity ballot measure.
Look, my bride is a Harvard MBA, she knows numbers and finance, she reads the prospectus, she doesn’t just hold her finger in the air, check which way the wind is blowing and then hit the yes button without enormous rigor and consideration. Ms. Bry saw SoccerCity for what it was – a bad deal for the City. She demanded transparency and economic scrutiny of the deal. SDSU West is both her legacy and a legacy for the City.
So, let’s ask who is financing mayoral candidate Scott Sherman. Lo and behold, SoccerCity promoter Nick Stone! These guys are clever. They know Sherman can’t win straight up in a Democratic leaning City, but if they can get Mr. Gloria elected, well maybe they can sabotage the deal and revisit the “scene of the crime.” Maybe with Mr. Gloria as Mayor they can maneuver enough to get back at the table after SDSU West is derailed by legal eagles and litigation.
I have founded, co-founded or been the CEO of more than 8 venture-backed technology companies. I have battled big time finance guys for years. The deal business is a blood sport. If there is enough money on the table, they will find a way to tilt the table in their direction.
Being Mayor is not just a job; it is a calling that demands leadership and accountability. Whether it is scooters, 101 Ash, short-term vacation rentals, housing affordability and the elephant in the room – homeless --- what is required is data-driven decision making without looking over your shoulder to see if some power broker or special interest approves. The “insiders” don’t like it when a bright light shines on them.
Please consider making a campaign contribution at bit.ly/bry4sd-nsenturia to help keep her TV ads on the air.
And of course, please vote!
Sincerely,
Neil Senturia
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