Note: As part of The Sentinel’s 2022 coverage of local elections, we have asked a series of seven identical questions to each of the candidates running for a seat on the Citrus Heights City Council. The questions are designed to give each of the candidates an opportunity to introduce themselves to the community and give voters an opportunity to learn more about each candidate’s life and background. Candidates replied via email, and those who responded to each question in less than 100 words have their answers published word-for-word.
Jayna Karpinski-Costa, District 4
Why are you running for City Council? When I attended the city council’s Strategic Planning session in May, I was energized by the objectives introduced by the new city manager. I resolved to be part this innovative plan. The seat for District 4 needs to be filled with someone who will support these strategic objectives. In this post-pandemic time and under new leadership. Citrus Heights is poised to launch policies that will restore cuts made to public safety, combat homelessness, fix our roads, re-envision Sunrise Marketplace and more. I believe I am uniquely qualified to set policies that can make Citrus Heights the best city in our region.
What are two aspects you like most about living in Citrus Heights?
- We have a city government that is open and accessible.
- We have a network of neighborhood associations that promote community participation, the highest form of democracy.
What are the top two things you’d like to change/improve in Citrus Heights, if any?
- Change: Homelessness
- Improve: roads
What are two books that have had the most influence on your life, and why/how?
I love books. I have several thousand. Hard to select. But I have to credit James Herriot for inspiring me to be a veterinarian in All Creatures Great and Small (and his others). In 2005, I attended League of Cities conference and bought The Fred Factor by Mark Sanborn. Fred, the postman, converted his ordinary job into an extraordinary one making a difference in the lives of others, doing his job with passion, creativity and commitment. I strive to be a Fred.
What are three key principles that would guide your votes on the council?
a) Do we really need it?
b) Can we afford it?
c) Does the community support it?
What kind of volunteer work have you done for charities, churches or service organizations in the community?
President of SOAR, Area 10, Sylvan Old Auburn Road neighborhood association since 1998. We organized a cleanup prior to the park construction, donated $8,500 from our fireworks booth sales, added a section of the trail for visually impaired. At Christmas, I dress as Santa and bring shelf-stable food to seniors in partnership with Meals on Wheels and as the Spring Chicken, some fresh produce at Easter. I organized the Senior Health and Resource Fair for 11 years. With great community partners and the other neighborhood associations helping, it was the biggest and best in the region. See my website www.drjayna.com for more information.
City Council members are paid a small monthly stipend of $600 for their service. If elected, how do you plan to balance work life elsewhere with council responsibilities?
I started my veterinary housecall practice when I was elected to council in 2004 so that I could schedule my clients to fit the demands of my community commitments. It worked out fine. Although the pandemic restricted my business severely, I hope to resume in 2023. I am financially secure so that I don’t need to earn an income. I just love doing what I do.
Key Endorsements:
- Henry Tingle, former City Manager for 17 years.
- Councilmember Tim Schaefer
Key Donors: “In these tough economic times, I am not seeking contributions; I am using personal funds. Also, I’ll be less subject to the pressures of special interests.”
Campaign website: www.drjayna.com
*Editor’s note: Manuel Salazar and Albert Fox are also running for District 4. To read more about each candidate, see article: Election 2022: Who’s running for Citrus Heights City Council?
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