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The state of our nation under the current administration is uncertain and many Americans are dissatisfied with our government and the instability. An economic recession, a failing housing market, rising oil prices and two wars have been the legacy of the Bush Administration. This administration has failed the American people who are now ready more than ever to be led towards a path of progress and stability. With all of the daily pressures and obstacles facing the American public, the citizens of Irvine can proudly say that they are enthusiastic about their city and their quality of life. Most importantly, the citizens of Irvine can take comfort in knowing that they are living in a wonderful city where they are supported by a local government that is working hard for their interests.
Under the leadership of Mayor Beth Krom, Councilmen Sukhee Kang and Councilmen Larry Agran, the city of Irvine has been named the “Safest City in America” three years in a row and also recognized by Green Guide as one of the “15 Greenest cities in America.” Under their leadership they defeated the county plan to build an airport in El Toro, worked endlessly to ensure that the vision for the Orange County Great Park is fully realized, and they have created a strong fiscal foundation, increasing reserves from 5.5% to 15%. With all of these accomplishments and victories, it is befitting to run in this November’s election as the “Keep Irvine Great” team.
While these accomplishments are a true testament of their hard work and dedication to Irvine, the most impressive trait shared by all three is their approachability as politicians. Their door to door campaigning and community involvement has created an environment where citizens are civically engaged. Beth Krom is recognized for her commitment to civic participation throughout the community, even stating that “the people are my boss.” She is currently finishing her second term as Mayor, winning in 2006 with 60% of the votes, the largest margin of victory for any Irvine Mayor! Due to term limits, she is unable to run for a third term, so she will be running for City Council to ensure that all of the progress during her terms as mayor continues. When asked what the Keep Irvine Great team symbolizes, she replied “A legacy of leadership. Keeping good, positive leadership and fighting hard to keep things moving in the right direction”. If elected this November, there is a lot that she hopes to accomplish in the next four years, including a strong fiscal foundation for the city, innovative programs and most importantly building upon the foundation she helped create and looking at ways to secure a strong, sustainable government.
Larry Agran has a legacy of leadership in Irvine that is incomparable to any other civic leader in Irvine. He has rightfully earned the reputation for being an advocate for public interests, public safety, environmental s (Measure W) to stop the El Toro airport. After a grueling campaign, the measure was passed and the vision of the Great Park came to fruition. Under his leadership Irvine has received national recognition for its pioneering programs in child care, open space pastures, and affordable housing. He is committed to environmental, social and economic sustainability, which he will continue if re-elected to City Council. When asked about Larry Agran, Mayor Krom stated that “he has done more as an individual to set the agenda, defend the community and be the voice of every citizen on City Council”.
Larry Agran referred to his colleague Sukhee Kang as “The American Dream. A first generation Korean who is a proxy for all the wonderful individuals living in Irvine”. When Sukhee Kang was elected to City Council in 2004, he “sent a strong message that Irvine is an open, diverse city. Under his leadership Irvine got $5 million a year for education. It is unheard of- to make us first in education”. As an immigrant, his election in 2004 was a break through, becoming the first ever non-Caucasian male in Irvine to serve on City Council. This sent a very strong message to the Irvine community about political empowerment. This November he is running for Mayor of Irvine and is looking forward to “sustaining the leadership and moving in the right direction”. His top priority is education, even leading the effort to expand city support for local schools. If elected he wants to leave a legacy as the “Education Mayor”. Sukhee Kang is a strong environmental advocate and actively involved with the Irvine business community. If elected, he has big shoes to fill, however he is confident that along with Larry Agran and Beth Krom he will maintain their wonderful legacy and keep Irvine Great.
If you would like to know more about these candidates or would like to make a contribution to their campaign, please visit: “http://www.keepirvinegreat2008.com/”
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