The Novato election includes the District Council 1 contest

Two candidates are vying for an open seat on the Novato City Council as the city faces major budget and governance decisions in the next few years.

The seat in play in the Nov. 5 election represents District 1 in the northwest part of the city. Kevin Jacobs, a retired construction manager, and James Petray, a retired accountant, are vying for the seat vacated by Susan Wernick, who chose not to seek re-election.

Two other incumbents, Tim O’Connor in District 3 and Mark Milberg in District 5, are running unopposed for re-election. At the same time, Novato residents are preparing to vote on a proposed sales tax increase that supporters say is necessary to address the city’s ongoing budget deficits.

O’Connor and Petray have characterized themselves as sensible and competent candidates who can work with the City Council and provide insight into the city’s development.

“I’m very concerned about the state the city is in and what it’s allowed to get into,” Petray said. “I hope someone with my skills can work to bring Novato back to life and realize its true potential.”

Jacobs, who said he has lived in Novato for 40 years, praised “a deep commitment to this community.”

“With my extensive construction experience and passion for service, I am ready to address our challenges and advocate for solutions that benefit everyone,” he said. “Together we can build a vibrant and inclusive future for Novato.”

The city’s biggest problem was its budget problems. The city has proposed a sales tax increase called Measure M that would adjust the rate from 8.5% to 9.25%.

A majority vote would be required to pass the tax increase and there is no sunset clause. This is estimated to raise approximately $10.3 million in unrestricted general fund resources annually. The city’s budget has recorded deficit spending for five consecutive years.

The candidates do not fully agree on this issue.

Jacobs insists Measure M must pass. He said the funds will not only allow the city to address various deferred maintenance issues but also focus on employee retention.

Jacobs said he doesn’t think it would impact consumers who come to Novato to shop because the tax rate would be in line with other communities in the area.

“I think it’s necessary,” Jacobs said. “It will give us the influx of money we need to balance the budget.”

Petray said he was conflicted and wasn’t sure the city could dig itself out of its financial hole without the tax. He also said he was concerned about the lack of a sunset clause or financial controls and said these should be put in place once they are passed.

“I will vote for it with caution,” he said. “Once the council has appropriated the funds for these purposes, work with the city manager to establish controls to ensure that the funds are actually used for these purposes before they are spent.”

Housing construction was also one of the most discussed topics in the city. Both candidates said new housing — particularly housing deemed affordable — should be tailored to the city’s limitations on services and infrastructure.

Jacobs said the proposed developments on Grant Avenue in downtown Novato appear to be a cash grab.

“When it comes to low-income housing, we need it,” he said. “We need it in an appropriate manner.”

Petray also said low-income housing should be developed where appropriate.

“I don’t know anyone in this city who is in favor of this project for so many reasons,” he said. “It will change the character of downtown forever.”

Novato has a city-approved homeless encampment in Lee Gerner Park, but it was recently damaged by a fire. The city has been looking for a solution to find a place for homeless people to settle with housing or services.

Petray said the city ultimately has to find a solution to get the campers to a “better place.”

“I personally feel bad for these people,” Petray said. “I don’t think it was intended to be a permanent location.”

Jacobs said he knows homeless people who have used services to find housing.

“We have to work with them and provide them with housing,” he said. “We have to give them everything we can to get them back on their feet.”

Candidates for Novato City Council

Kevin Jacobs
Age: 66
Occupation: Retired
Education: Two years, College of San Mateo.
Experience: Member of the Novato Design Review Commission; Novato Chamber of Commerce board member.

James Petray
Age: 69
Occupation: Retired
Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, University of Santa Clara.
Experience: Former board trustee of the Hanna Center; former president of the Sonoma County Family Justice Center.

Kevin Jacobs, candidate for Novato City Council, on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, in San Rafael, California. (Alan Dep/Marin Independent Journal)

Novato City Council candidate Jim Petray photographed on Tuesday, September 24, 2019, in San Rafael, California. (Alan Dep/Marin Independent Journal)

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Kevin Jacobs, candidate for Novato City Council, on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, in San Rafael, California. (Alan Dep/Marin Independent Journal)

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