WELCOME

It has been my great honor and privilege to serve on the city council for the past ten years, especially the last two as your mayor. I am encouraged by the progress we are making and optimistic about our future as we work together to improve the lives of those who live and work here. Through shared sacrifice, our community can provide funding for police, fire, emergency and other vital city services; prioritize water security and the delivery of safe, clean drinking water; invest heavily in our roads, sidewalks and infrastructure; advance wildfire prevention and preparedness; and create more employee housing to enhance economic development and build a full-spectrum community. Through belt-tightening, shared services, efficient and targeted use of personnel, and advanced technology, we can also create lean government.

Our city faces daunting financial, structural and environmental challenges that will greatly impact our lives and force us to operate more efficiently and prudently. While not all citizens have agreed with every council decision, and each council member has not always concurred with the ultimate result, it’s safe to say that we have listened to one another, learned from one another, and respected one another. I have worked hard to build community trust and to model civility and collegiality because I know how vital it is to keep our democracy strong.

Now more than ever we need an experienced, dedicated, clear-eyed leader prepared to guide us through these challenging times. I am seeking a second term as mayor because I bring the necessary experience, work ethic and seriousness of purpose to bring us together and keep us together. I will continue to exercise independent judgment—without fear or favor. I will continue to offer a steady hand when our community most needs it.

As we move forward together, we must balance the clear need for new city revenues with the equally important need to protect what’s best in our community. I’m running not only to ensure our city’s economic sustainability but also to preserve St. Helena’s agrarian values, natural beauty and open space, rural small-town charm, historic downtown and vibrant neighborhoods. I’m running to celebrate and uplift the heart and soul of our community: our workers and small business owners, our volunteers, our seniors, our Latino/Latinx community, and our young families and children.  I am committed to a balanced, unifying approach for the long-term benefit of our entire community.

Kara and I know that we live in an amazing community. We have a deep connection to this place and its people, and we remain optimistic about our continued bright future together. If re-elected as your mayor, I will make sure that we tackle our financial challenges and preserve and enhance this amazing place we call home.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND YOUR VOTE!

Mayor Paul Dohring