Newell Arnerich (Danville Town Council At-large, California, candidate 2024)

Newell Arnerich

Nonpartisan

Candidate, Danville Town Council At-large

Elections and appointments

Last election

November 5, 2024

Education

Bachelor's

University of California, Berkeley, 1974

Graduate

University of California, Berkeley, 1976

Personal

Birthplace

Hollister, Calif.

Religion

Christian

Profession

Architect

Contact

Campaign website

Campaign YouTube

Newell Arnerich ran for re-election to the Danville Town Council At-large in California. He was on the ballot in the general election on November 5, 2024.^[source]

Arnerich completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Newell Arnerich provided the following biographical information via Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey on October 13, 2024:

• Birth place: Hollister, California
• High school: Thomas Downey High School
• Bachelor's: University of California, Berkeley, 1974
• Graduate: University of California, Berkeley, 1976
• Gender: Male
• Religion: Christian
• Profession: Architect
• Prior offices held:
  • 7 Term Danville Mayor/Town Council Member (1995-Prsnt)
• Incumbent officeholder: Yes
• Campaign slogan: Responsible Experience Leadership protecting our future .
• Campaign website
• Campaign endorsements
• Campaign YouTube

Elections

General election

General election for Danville Town Council At-large (3 seats)

Incumbent Newell Arnerich, incumbent Renee S. Morgan, Mark Belotz, and Julia Gillette ran in the general election for Danville Town Council At-large on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate
		Newell Arnerich (Nonpartisan)
	Submit photo	Renee S. Morgan (Nonpartisan)
	Submit photo	Mark Belotz (Nonpartisan)
	Submit photo	Julia Gillette (Nonpartisan)

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined.
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Endorsements

To view Arnerich's endorsements as published by their campaign, click here. Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Arnerich in this election.

Campaign themes

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Newell Arnerich completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Arnerich's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

As a seven term Mayor/Councilmember, I have helped guide Danville through three economic downturns and helped revitalize Old Town Danville. Our Town is one of the most cost effective and has been the safest community in California for over eight years. This success was not by chance, but through careful planning and dedication. I remain deeply committed to maintaining Danville’s small-town atmosphere and outstanding quality of life, while preserving the 43% permanent open space that drew my family, and yours, to Danville 38 years ago.

Additionally, Newell Arnerich is the Chair of the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) representing all 19 cities in CCC. A pioneering figure, Mr. Arnerich played a pivotal role in the establishment of GoMentum Station, the largest secure automated vehicle test facility in the nation. His leadership facilitated the transition of the facility into a dynamic public-private partnership.

He is a graduate of Leadership San Ramon Valley, League of California Cities Mayors’ Advanced Leadership and Leadership Academy Torch. Newell has published over 50 articles on governance, leadership and ecoHe earned bachelors and master’s degrees in architecture and urban design from the University of California, Berkeley.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

• Keep Danville debt free - no unfunded liabilities.
• Protect Danville's small town atmosphere. Preserve open space and family neighborhoods
• Maintain fiscal responsibility with balanced budget and high reserves.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Keeping Danville the safest community in California

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the state government and legal system?

Everything you experience in your day-to-day life—from traveling to the store, commuting to work, or visiting friends and family—is shaped by local government, such as the Town of Danville. Local government is responsible for providing essential services, infrastructure, and direct responses to community needs. It serves as the primary point of contact between residents and government, ensuring that streets are maintained, public safety is ensured, and parks and community spaces are accessible. While state and federal governments focus on broader policies and shaping public belief, local government works on the ground, delivering the services and solutions that directly impact your daily life.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

I would recommend "The Federalist Papers," particularly those written by James Madison and Alexander Hamilton, as a foundational resource for understanding my political philosophy. This collection of essays emphasizes the importance of representative government, checks and balances, and the need for public accountability—core values that align with my beliefs in integrity, transparency, and effective leadership. For a more modern perspective, I’d recommend the documentary "Fixing America’s Cities," which explores the principles of urban planning, economic development, and community leadership—which part of my vision for effective, long-term policymaking at the local level.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

The most important characteristics or principles for an elected official include:

1. Integrity: Honesty and transparency are crucial for building trust with constituents and making ethical decisions and to make lives better.
2. Leadership: Strong leadership involves guiding others, setting a vision, and being decisive in challenging situations.
3. Communication: Clear, open communication fosters trust and ensures constituents are informed and engaged in the decision-making process.
4. Fiscal Responsibility: Managing public funds wisely and ensuring resources are used efficiently is essential for maintaining the community’s trust.
5. Vision: A forward-thinking approach that anticipates future challenges and opportunities, ensuring sustainable growth and progress.

6. Commitment to Public Service: A genuine desire to serve the public interest and improve the community is foundational for any elected official.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibilities for someone elected to this office include:

1. Representing the Community: Elected officials must act as the voice of their constituents, ensuring that their concerns, needs, and interests are effectively represented in decision-making processes.
2. Fiscal Oversight: Ensuring responsible management of public funds by approving budgets, overseeing spending, and maintaining fiscal transparency and accountability.
3. Public Safety and Well-Being: Supporting initiatives that ensure the safety, health, and welfare of the community, including collaborating with law enforcement, health services, and other public agencies.
4. Promoting Economic Growth: Encouraging sustainable economic development by supporting local businesses, attracting investment, and creating opportunities for job growth while preserving the community’s unique character.
5. Community Engagement: Actively engaging with residents, listening to their concerns, fostering open dialogue, and encouraging participation in local government processes.
6. Planning for the Future: Ensuring that long-term plans for land use, environmental sustainability, and public services align with the community’s vision and needs for future generations.
7. Maintaining Accountability: Upholding transparency, ethics, and accountability in all actions, while remaining accessible and responsive to the public.

Each of these responsibilities is essential to creating

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

I vividly remember watching the first televised presidential debate between Kennedy and Nixon in 1960, when I was just 9 years old. It left a lasting impression on me, highlighting the power of media in shaping political discourse.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I started a lawn mowing business in my neighborhood as a young boy, and later became a paperboy for the local daily newspaper. Together, these experiences spanned seven years, teaching me responsibility, work ethic, and the value of serving my community.

Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?

There are no unique powers held by Danville Town Council members - the real power exists with voters for taxation. The Council oversees running the Town within the amount of funds that the taxpayers provide.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics?

Danville Town Council members do not hold any unique powers on their own; the real authority lies with the voters, especially when it comes to decisions about taxation. The Council's role is to ensure the town is effectively managed within the budget provided by taxpayers. Their responsibility is to oversee how those funds are used to maintain and improve the community, always staying within the resources that residents have approved.

What kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess?

1. High Ethical Standards: Upholding integrity, transparency, and ethical practices is essential for building trust with constituents and making sound decisions for the community.

2. Economic & Budgeting Expertise: A solid understanding of budgeting at various levels ensures effective financial oversight, allowing for responsible fiscal management and prioritization of community needs.
3. Effective Communication and Listening: The ability to clearly communicate and, more importantly, actively listen to residents’ concerns and feedback is crucial for representing diverse viewpoints and fostering community engagement.
4. In-Depth Knowledge of Local Government: A thorough understanding of the roles and responsibilities of local government allows for more effective policy-making and administration of town services.
5. Strong Intergovernmental Connections: Building relationships with county, state, and federal officials enable better coordination and access to resources, such as matching grant funding, which can be vital for local projects.
6. Understanding of Non-Profit Contributions: Recognizing the significant role non-profits play in supporting a healthy and thriving community is important for collaboration and ensuring comprehensive support systems are in place.

7. Multitasking Across Diverse Disciplines: A City Council member must manage a wide array of responsibilities, including public works, transportation, land use planning, construction, law enforcement, recycling and waste management, recreation, veterans’ services, senior programs, and cultural arts initiatives. Adaptability and multitasking across these areas are key to effective leadership.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the local government?

To repeat. a critical statement of understanding, everything you experience in your day-to-day life—from traveling to the store, commuting to work, or visiting friends and family—is provided by local government.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Hon. Candace Andersen, CCC Supervisor, former Danville Mayor

Danville Area Chamber of Commerce
Hon. David O. Livingston, CCC Sheriff, Danville Resident
Hon. Dave Fong, Danville Vice Mayor
Hon. Karen Stepper, Mayor of Danville
Hon. Robert Storer, Danville Councilmember, former Mayor
Hon. Renee Morgan Danville Councilmember, former Mayor
Hon. Bill Clarkson, Mayor of San Ramon
Hon. John Marchand, Mayor of Livermore
Hon. Dave Haubert, former Mayor of Dublin
Hon. Lisa Blackwell, former Danville Vice-Mayor
Hon. Carla Brown, Mayor of Pleasanton
Hon. Michael McCorriston, Mayor of Dublin
Hon. Melissa Hernandez, Mayor of Dublin, Ret./ BART Board Member

Hon. Chris Wenzel, former Livermore School Board Member & Danville Police Chief, Ret.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Governments should regularly and publicly disclose their budgets, expenditures, and financial decisions. This includes providing clear, accessible reports on how public funds are allocated and spent. Citizens should be able to easily track how tax dollars are being used and understand the reasoning behind financial decisions. Most importantly, there needs to be clear policies in place to prevent conflicts of interest, ensuring that government officials are acting in the public's best interest, not for personal or political gain. Transparency around campaign contributions and financial interests helps build trust.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

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Candidate

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