Politics & Government

2012 Hercules: Don Kuehne

Hercules Patch asked some prominent Hercules citizens to predict the future. Read their thoughts and share yours.

As Hercules comes out of a turbulent year, Hercules Patch asked some residents what they expect, hope and fear for 2012.

Here's what resident and former Hercules City Councilman Don Kuehne said. Share your own predictions in the comments or see the note at the end of this article if you'd like your thoughts published as a separate article.

Where you think Hercules will be by the end of 2012 and where do you hope Hercules will be? Where do you fear Hercules might be?

Find out what's happening in Pinole-Herculeswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

  • The new Council's lack of experience and knowledge of city government will affect the quality and timeliness of critical decisions.
  • The personnel changes at City Hall do not address the root cause of the management and financial problems.  The organizational structure needs to change to provide the necessary financial controls and accountability.  I recommended some real solutions last spring that included election of a City Treasurer and City Clerk by the voters.
  • I am hopeful that the City will be able to balance the budget through a combination of cost-cutting and revenue-enhancing measures.
  • I am concerned that special interest groups have taken over City Hall and will not do what is best for Hercules.
  • The new Council has NOT restored trust in city government as promised.
  •  I am hopeful that the City will find the right business partner to complete construction of Sycamore North.
  • I am afraid that the City could face bankruptcy but this should be avoided if possible.

Post your reaction in the comments below. If you'd like your 2012 Hercules predictions published as a separate article, please send your answers to the above questions to laila.kearney@patch.com. Include your first and last name and a photo of yourself that clearly shows your face.


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