Berlin brings a proven track record in civic affairs and a zeal for changing the way the council and city do business.
Look at many of the big issues in the city's recent past and you'll find Berlin somewhere in the mix, defending residents' quality of life.
Her tireless efforts at the neighborhood level to control commercial development, her work on regional issues on the Southern California Assn. of Governments and her experience on the city's Planning Board help make her well-suited for the council.
The experience has given her clarity on the issues that affect the city because she has been in the middle of those issues and as a longtime resident, has lived through the effect of city policy.
Berlin will question policies and other items brought to council — driven by a belief that she isn't there to simply be a rubber stamp, to simply sign off on what city staff puts on an agenda.
Her is a voice for change. And that voice, joining others, will create more debate and discussion on the dais.
We may not always agree with Berlin, but she is a good bet for getting things done, and, because she brings such civic experience, we have faith that she can make reasonable decisions and be accountable for them.
Reinke is a peacemaker by trade, and is committed to fairness.
In her day job, practicing family law, she is faced all of the time with the need to resolve issues.
She would bring skills in mediation and arbitration to the council, bolstered by an optimistic approach to civic affairs — one that doesn't believe the sky is falling in Burbank, but one based on common sense and seeking compromise.
Reinke is also exceptionally creative and has some fascinating ideas about how the city can move forward. She talks about a "green" city powered by recycling that could put Burbank on the cutting edge.
