LESSONS FROM THE POLITICAL TRENCHES

1
LESSONS FROM THE POLITICAL TRENCHES

• By
• Jose Esteves
• Mayor, City of Milpitas

2
My Goals Today

• Share my experiences as a Filipino in American
  politics.
• Talk about my philosophy and values in public
  service.
• Draw some lessons learned.
• Promote and be proud to be a Filipino.
• Suggest some next steps.
• Respond to your questions.

3
MY STORY

• Where I came from
• What was my education
• What I do professionally
• Where am I politically
• Three term Mayor
• Landslide victories
• City Council top vote getter
• Best elected official in Milpitas
• Why am I in public service

4
Where is Milpitas?

• Located at the southern tip of the San Francisco
  Bay, Milpitas is an integral part of the high
  tech Silicon Valley.

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Profile of Milpitas

• Crossroads of Silicon Valley technology
  industries with the largest employers being Cisco
  and Lifescan.
• Average Household income Approx. 99,000
• Population 70,000
• Asians 52
• Filipinos - largest group at 15 or 10,500
• Caucasians 24
• Hispanics 17
• African-Americans 39

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MY PHILOSOPHY

• Maximize commitment and contributions to the
  community.
• Best preparation for higher responsibilities
  depends on ongoing activities and involvement.
• Be ready for any opportunity for public service.
• Excellence now and in the future. J. Esteves

7
Strategies for Success

• Extensive community involvement
• Leadership in various community groups
• Specific contributions or accomplishments
• Network with community at large
• Strong grassroot support

8
Challenges

• Multi-cultural communities demand more resources
  and time
• Reaching out to uninformed citizens
• Need for campaign resources materials, time,
  energy, funds
• Differences of needs and character of communities

9
Lessons Learned

• Demonstrate dedication and commitment
• Be competent in resolving issues
• Expand involvement on a regional level
• Work with leaders from various sectors
• Extend support to various causes
• Increase impact of contributions
• Work with coalitions

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NEXT GENERATION PASSING THE BATON

• Appreciate public service
• Be a witness to current activities and issues
• Be role models yourself
• Develop strong values honesty, trustworthy,
  ethical character
• Support causes social, community development
• Demonstrate leadership