Laura Sturza
Though Michael Porco is new to Burbank, the City Council candidate
is convinced his chosen home is one he'll stick with "for the long
haul."
"We have safe streets, beautiful parks -- anything you need is in
downtown Burbank. It's like a little hidden gem," Porco said.
The 29-year-old said he would find ways to reach out to residents
who don't normally participate in city politics, "like working
families with children."
"I think I have a great deal of energy that I can bring in getting
those people involved," Porco said.
While ongoing concerns at the airport need to be addressed, Porco
said his goals include fo- cusing on families, public safety and
economic development.
If elected from the pool of nine candidates scheduled to face off
in the Feb. 25 primary, Porco would aim to upgrade technology and
keep wages competitive at the Police Department.
Another priority is to increase affordable housing and child-care
options, he said.
On redevelopment, Porco suggests "mixed-use properties that
include business and residential buildings to make downtown a vibrant
area."
In addition, the city should "work with the entertainment
community and make sure that they remain part of our economy, and
also look at ways to diversify in case there are any downturns in the
industry," Porco said.
Porco is in graduate school to become a school-based family
counselor. His past work experience was in strategic planning,
volunteer recruitment and board diversity with nonprofit groups.
The candidate participated in the Burbank Police Department's
Community Academy, which helps citizens understand police operations.
He also completed Leadership Burbank's 10-month program -- designed
to train up-and-com- ing civic leaders.
