FAIRFAX NEEDS A “PEOPLE’S ADVOCATE”

For years, those of us concerned about the erosion of local control were called “Chicken Little.” The sky may not have fallen, but with proposed buildings now reaching nearly three times Fairfax’s traditional height limit, it certainly feels a lot closer.

Rent control and School Street demonstrate just how consequential decisions made by five Councilmembers can be. The last several years have taught us that wanting to serve isn’t the same as knowing how. Both have become poster children for why proven leadership matters on the dais.

That’s why experience matters—and the type matters, too. Some attorneys spend their careers representing government agencies. Larry Bragman spent his advocating for individuals. Those careers develop different instincts and bring different perspectives to the Council table.

I want a Councilmember who understands the law—and whose client is we, the people of Fairfax.

Vote Larry Bragman.

— Bert Bartsch

SERVE WHILE NOBODY’S VOTING

I was pleased to see the Marin Independent Journal endorse Larry Bragman for Fairfax Town Council. Although I live just over the border in San Anselmo, I am in Fairfax daily and know Larry as a dedicated public servant who consistently serves the Ross Valley even when nobody is voting.

Given Marin’s staggering cost-of-living increase, affordability is an issue on most people’s minds. Affordability also means helping people who already live here afford to stay. Among many examples, Larry co-founded the Fairfax Food Pantry and serves on the board of the Fairfax-San Anselmo Children’s Center—helping local families with two of their most basic expenses: food and childcare.

These commitments reflect the Larry Bragman I’ve known for many years: a thoughtful, kind, and generous person who cares deeply about his community and gives selflessly to improve people’s lives in tangible ways. Larry has the temperament, commitment, and experience that we need to make local politics effective and civil.

— Diana D. Karlenzig

PUBLIC TRUST MEANS TRUSTING THE PUBLIC

I like that Larry Bragman decided not to list individual endorsements in this campaign because he didn’t want to add to the divisions in town. It wasn’t the obvious political choice, but I think it says something about the kind of Councilmember he intends to be.

My family has lived here for 4 generations. I was around when Larry was first elected to the Town Council, at another time when Fairfax felt divided. He quickly became one of the most well-liked and trusted members of the Council. People trusted that the process was open and honest, and disagreement didn’t have to become a test of loyalty.

Larry says, “Public trust means trusting the public.” I think Fairfax could use that again.

— Sandy Campodonico

STEPPING UP TO TONE THINGS DOWN

Lately, it feels like the baseline dynamic in Fairfax has become far too divisive. We are a small town, and we need to get back to being a cohesive, supportive community. That is exactly why I am casting my vote for Larry Bragman for Town Council.

I have known Larry for a long time, and his personal character is deeply rooted in being highly ethical and dependable. He does not just talk about fairness; he lives it. Throughout his legal career, Larry has consistently stepped up to take on pro bono cases for low-income individuals who otherwise would not have a voice. That says everything you need to know about where his heart is.

Larry has already demonstrated his strong sense of decorum as a councilman in the past. He knows how the town runs, but more importantly, he knows how to treat people. He truly listens to constituents, and he maintains a deep, unwavering respect for other council members and our hard-working town employees.

Larry genuinely cares about Fairfax. He is stepping up because he wants to tone down the political noise and help us focus on what unites us. If you want a proven, respectful leader who will work to bring us together, please join me in voting for Larry Bragman.

— Patty Bredt