MEET BRIDGET HARRIS
Running for Piedmont City Council, 2022
Experience:
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I advise clients with respect to a variety of trusts, including revocable or living trusts (inter vivos trusts), trusts for children, irrevocable life insurance trusts, qualified domestic trusts, grantor retained annuity trusts and charitable trusts. I represent nonprofessional trustees in trust funding and trust administration.I represent individual clients in estate planning, trust funding, trust administration, sophisticated estate and gift planning, and executive planning.
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I also represent business owners in corporate and tax planning, business transition planning and wealth transfer. A significant portion of my practice includes the formation of limited partnerships, limited liability companies and corporations. I assist clients in real estate transactions, including the purchase, sale and exchange of property. In addition, I advise clients with respect to family loans in real estate and business transactions. [Source]
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The Harrises, both 25-year veterans of the legal industry, met in law school at Gonzaga School of Law in Spokane, Wash. and clerked together in the U.S. Tax Court in Washington D.C.
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Bridget Harris went on to work with Oakland's Crosby, Heafey, Roach & May (now Reed Smith LLP) and then Thelen, Marrin, Johnson & Bridges (now Thelen Reid Brown Raysman & Steiner LLP), prior to co-founding a firm with her husband. Randy Harris worked with McInerney & Dillon in Oakland. [Source]
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Why are you running?
I seek election to the City Council to serve the community with a strong commitment to public safety, fiscal discipline, realistic growth and common sense. I believe we can improve our community’s engagement regarding the increased housing requirement imposed by California by introducing more public forums and clear accessible diagrams of what is being discussed and debated. Importantly, I would advocate that all residents should vote before any park or city land is used for multi-family units within the city of Piedmont. Another top priority is public safety with additional support for the police and fire departments; improving both facilities and funding. I would be honored to put my knowledge, work ethic, and love for Piedmont to work as your City Council member. I earned my B.S. from the School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University, my JD from Gonzaga University, and my Taxation LLM from Georgetown University. I have practiced tax law locally for more than 40 years. We have resided in Piedmont since 1986, raising our four children here. I serve on the Executive Boards of the Piedmont Boy Scouts and Order of Malta Clinic in Oakland, a provider of free medical care to uninsured patients in our community.
[Source]
Letter from Sara:
OPINION: City Council Candidate Bridget Harris Counters City Administrator Letter
Response to Letter from City Administrator
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Everyone in Piedmont received a letter from Sara Lillevand, the City Administrator, dated September 30, 2022. The City Administrator is hired by the City Council and reports directly to the City Council. Therefore, we can assume that the letter was vetted and approved by the five members of the City Council.
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The letter is extremely misleading.
The letter is a not too subtle endorsement of three candidates to the City Council who oppose a vote on the Housing Element;
As stated in the letter, the City has been working on the issue for 18 months yet this city-wide letter was sent five weeks before the election;
The letter includes the statement that any future development would have to meet Piedmont’s design standards. This is not true, see Schreiber v. City of Los Angeles and Bankers Hill 150 v. City of San Diego. Both cases illustrate that the state’s Density Bonus Law supersedes a city’s local ordinances and zoning laws. The Density Bonus Law provides developers with incentives and waivers of building restrictions for set-backs, parking and height.
The letter outlines the plan to include 132 homes on City-owned land (Moraga Canyon). This land is in Zone B (Park and Public Land). Zone C is zoned for Multi-family units. The plan is a de-facto re-zone which according to our City Charter requires a majority vote of the citizens of Piedmont. Further, once the plan is approved a developer can enforce development using the state’s Density Bonus Law that overrides Piedmont’s design restrictions thereby making development economically feasible. At that point a vote will be too late.
Piedmont Municipal Code §17.08.010 provides that “[i]f a use is not permitted or conditionally permitted, it is not allowed.” Piedmont Municipal Code §17.22.020 lists the permitted and conditional uses allowed in Zone B. Multi-family units are not permitted or conditionally permitted in Zone B. To build multi-family units on property located in Zone B requires a vote to re-zone the land pursuant to §9.02 of our City Charter.
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Adding 587 units to the city of Piedmont will forever change the city. We must delay submission of the Housing Element plan until we understand all ramifications of the plan. We must review available options and then vote on those options. True engagement by the community requires a vote and the result will be a viable Housing Element plan.
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Bridget Harris, Piedmont City Council Candidate
Piedmont *DOES NOT* have to build.
From the Piedmont Post -
September 14, 2022
Week 1 Questions
1. If elected, what are your plans for housing in Piedmont? What would additional housing in Piedmont cost and what would it look like? (mixed use/ single family homes/ market rate apartments, etc.)
2. What do you see as some of Piedmont’s critical infrastructure needs and what are your plans for reinvestment or repair?
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The six city council candidates vying for three open seats
were sent these questions on Friday, September 9, and were asked
to reply with 150-word responses.
Reminder:
Delaying submission = Piedmont tax payers are paying for fines by the State of California.
BRIDGET HARRIS
1) Housing
If elected, I would delay submission of the Housing Element to the state until residents of Piedmont clearly understand the impact on traffic and safety of locating 587 additional housing units in Piedmont. I would outline the consequences of delaying the submission, and provide options to be voted upon by the community in a special election. Should the current city council submit a plan to California without a vote of our citizens, I would still move to require a vote because the current proposed plan is a de facto re-zone and our city charter requires that any re-zone be approved by a vote of the community. We must protect our scarce open spaces, such as Blair Park. Any construction of multi-family units in the center of town would negatively impact school safety, traffic, pedestrians, and parking. We need to further explore re-zoning other areas near Park Blvd and Grand Ave.
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2) Infrastructure
The Piedmont community greatly values its police and fire departments, yet both operate in outdated and unsafe facilities. In 2020 the City Council discussed deficiencies in the buildings and noncompliance with the state’s Essential Services Act. While the Council considered improving the facilities with funding by issuance of public safety bonds, for various reasons the project did not move forward. Modernizing Piedmont’s public infrastructure is vital to our future. Our community came together for the Aquatic Center, approving a bond measure, and we can repeat that success to rebuild our public safety buildings. I will clearly explain the issues and the need for renovations and then provide detailed options and costs before asking for increases in fees, taxes or approval of a bond measure. The community deserves excellent public safety services and we must insure those services by capital investment in the police and fire department infrastructure.
From the Exedra -
September 27, 2022
We asked all city council and school board candidates to fill out a questionnaire to better understand their priorities and positions. Many are hosting meet-and-greets and can be spotted around town, but if you can’t make it to one of their events, these Q&As are a good starting point.
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(Editor’s note: We received responses from all candidates except for Sunny Bostrom as of Tuesday, Sept. 27. We will update the site when we receive her questionnaire.)
What is your age and how long have you lived in Piedmont?
I have lived in Piedmont since 1986.
(Editor’s note: We believe the age of candidates running for elected office is an important data point for voters to have and will update this article with that information when confirmed.)
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What you do for work, either in or out of your home?
I am an attorney; I work in the tax department at Jeffer Mangels Butler & Mitchell LLP. I was a partner in the firm until 2022 and beginning this year I am of counsel which will allow me to spend more time on civic and volunteer projects.
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Have you worked or volunteered in the Piedmont community (or elsewhere) previously? If so, in what capacity(ies)?
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Georgetown University Alumni Association Board; Audit & Finance Committee; Treasurer (2011-2020);
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Boy Scout Piedmont Council, Executive Board, Finance Committee (current);
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Order of Malta Clinic of Northern California, Executive Board, Finance Committee (current);
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USC Caruso Catholic Center, Advisory Board Member (current).
What inspires you to run for office?
I now have the time to devote to civic responsibilities. I was motivated to run for city council primarily because of the issues surrounding the Housing Element. I believe there are options available that will bring the community together. We must tackle the issue with transparency, present options and give the citizens the right to vote on those options, even if it means delaying submission of a draft plan.
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What are your qualifications to be on the City Council? Any special skills or experience the voters should know about?
I have spent many years working collaboratively with clients, financial advisors and accountants. I enjoy team work, planning and solving problems. In addition to a law degree I have a masters in taxation and have spent many years on audit and finance committees for non-profits. I am fiscally responsible and a problem solver.
What do you see as the most challenging issues currently facing the city?
I believe there are two challenging issues facing the city of Piedmont. First, the state mandated Housing Element has caused considerable anxiety in the city. There is no need for divisiveness; we need to clearly explain the options, the potential penalties if we delay, and give Piedmonters the right to vote. The second issue is the pressing need to renovate the downtown city structures, including City Hall and the police and fire departments. Both issues can be resolved with good communication and engagement with the community.
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What do you see as strengths of the Piedmont community?
The residents of Piedmont love their city, the schools and the recreation department. In general, we work together to accomplish common goals, such as the Aquatic Center. We can do it again with the Housing Element and needed renovations to the infrastructure. Piedmonters are loyal to their city and their community.
What will be your top priority if elected?
My top priority will be to bring the Piedmont community together and achieve consensus for the Housing Element.
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Do you see yourself being especially involved in any particular city issue or program, whether or not it’s your top priority?
I would like to be involved in the renovation of the public buildings in Piedmont. We can make our downtown beautiful as well as increase the safety of those buildings. Improving the city infrastructure will benefit our public service personnel and our community.
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Talk about any leadership roles you’ve held and what you learned from them.
I have been the managing partner of a law firm and served on local and national non-profit boards primarily on audit and finance committees. I have been treasurer of a national nonprofit organization. I have learned to work with people collaboratively, to define goals and achieve those goals for the constituents.
Share an example of your decision-making style.
In my practice I work with clients with competing business interests. I listen to all sides and work to find common grounds for moving forward so all parties benefit.
What project have you worked on that you are especially proud of?
I have worked on the Executive Board of a free medical clinic in downtown Oakland for several years. This past week the clinic achieved the milestone of treating patient number 45,000, all without charge to a single patient. The clinic provides medical care to the uninsured throughout Northern California and receives no government funds.
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City Council members must navigate a wide range of community opinions and demands. How will you handle those pressures?
As I have in my practice, I will listen to all opinions and strive to reach a consensus that is beneficial to Piedmont.
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What should the city’s priorities be when it comes to upgrading city infrastructure?
As stated before, the city’s priority should be the renovation of City Hall and the police and fire stations. Veterans Hall and the police station need extensive remodeling and/or total reconstruction to make the buildings safe and increase services. A remodeled Veterans Hall and Community Center could bring in more rental revenue for the city. An upgraded police and fire station would allow our public service personnel to provide better services and, hopefully, encourage more applicants to work in Piedmont.
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Piedmont is required by the state to meet new affordable housing goals. What is your view on the approach the city has taken so far to comply with the law?
I believe that most Piedmont residents were not aware or focused on the Housing Element until the City Council presented a draft plan that included portions of downtown Piedmont. At that point, the Housing Element became an issue for many. The city has spent a considerable amount of money on consultants when the city should have first educated the residents, presented options and most importantly included the community in the decisions. Multi-family units are authorized in Zone C. The draft plan allocates multi-family units in Zone B which therefore requires a vote pursuant to Section 9.02 of the City Charter.
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What would you do to promote diversity in Piedmont, including among City staff?
Piedmont should hire the most qualified individuals to serve the city while being mindful that our community is improved through diversity and inclusion.
Piedmont has recently received an award for its sustainability accomplishments and goals. What would you do to further Piedmont’s Climate Action Plan?
I would like to see more electric vehicles for the police and fire department. Installation of EV charging stations in Piedmont would benefit community and could be a revenue source for the city.
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What do you think about current recreational opportunities in Piedmont, and do you have other ideas for adding, subtracting or changing programs?
Piedmont’s recreational opportunities must be preserved and enhanced, not reduced. The Aquatic Center is an excellent example of the city coming together to improve recreation in Piedmont. It is critical that we provide our students and residents with as many recreational options as possible, including new ones such as pickleball. However, the city has limited land so we must protect all of it, including Blair Park.
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Is there anything else you’d like to share with voters about your candidacy?
N/A
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Do you have a website and email to share with voters? If so, please add below.
https://www.Bridgetforpiedmont.com | Bridgetforpiedmont@gmail.com
From the Piedmont Post -
September 28, 2022
Part 3 in a series (part 2 was for School Board)
In advance of the November 8 Municipal Election, six candidates have filed papers for three available seats on the Piedmont City Council. They were asked to answer the following two questions, which were sent to them on Thursday, September 22.
This marks week 3 of the Post’s election coverage. Next week the focus will return to the school board candidates. Beginning with the October 12 edition, the Post’s weekly coverage will include questions and answers from both City Council and School Board candidates until the election on November 8.
Week 3 QUESTIONS:
1. What do you consider as the City’s most pressing problems? How do you plan to address them?
2. If elected, how do you plan to make yourself available to residents?
BRIDGET HARRIS
1. Most pressing problem At this time I believe the City’s most pressing problem is the divisiveness of the Housing Element. I believe the discord originates from both the communication and the process. There is no need for rancor; we need to join together for a solution. Having been made aware of the Housing Element late in the development, I understand the need for more effective disclosure and inclusion by the residents of Piedmont. Increasing the population by approximately 10% and housing units by 15% is a substantial change for our small city. Broad public participation and true engagement by an election process will help unify the city and increase the likelihood of a fair and successful outcome. Delaying submission of a Housing Element Plan until all of Piedmont has the chance to understand the consequences and decide on options by a vote is not only necessary but legally required.
2. Availability This year I transitioned from partner to “of counsel” at my law firm which allows me to devote more time to civic and non-profit service. My years of legal and tax experience has prepared me to better serve the city of Piedmont. For decades I have reviewed and responded to daily emails and calls with clients who expect a prompt response. I will extend that same diligence and respect to the residents of Piedmont. Resident communication is of paramount importance to finding solutions. To that end, I intend to dialogue with individuals in the community through email, phone, social media channels, and with monthly “office hours” in a hybrid setting. Finally, I expect to use door knocking when necessary to educate residents and solicit their participation on important issues. There should be no surprises.
From Piedmont Connect -
October 18, 2022
Hello Candidates,
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Thank you for offering to run for Piedmont City Council and School Board and to serve as a volunteer for our community.
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Piedmont Connect is a non-profit organization based in town that advocates for sustainability policies in city and PUSD operations as well as engages our community in sustainability awareness. To that end, we consider it especially important for city leaders to address certain key sustainability issues.
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The Connect Board and its membership would be interested in your answers to the following questions.
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Thank you for your commitment to Piedmont and we’d be happy to answer any questions you have. Piedmont Connect is a 501(c)3 organization and cannot endorse political candidates.
Piedmont Connect Board of Directors
Question 1: The City of Piedmont increasingly confronts sustainability issues in city operations and via international, national, state and local objectives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and/or to conserve water. Most East Bay and Peninsula cities already have working, permanent Sustainability and/or Climate Action committees, served by community volunteers, to address these issues in their communities.
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Would you support establishing a Piedmont Sustainability Commission in 2023?
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Answer:
Bridget Harris: Creating a volunteer Piedmont Sustainability Commission would be beneficial to the City of Piedmont and helpful to the City Council. A committee could advise on issues relating to air quality, water quality, energy and resource conservation. Selection of committee members could focus on both science and practical backgrounds to facilitate a successful committee. Enlisting volunteers would insure a commitment to the goals of a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and water conservation. A committee would also encourage input and participation from the community to create programs, and increase education and awareness. The committee could then provide objectives and status reports directly to the City Council which could then authorize action.
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Question 2: Piedmont’s municipal Reach codes currently apply to low-rise residential buildings which now encompasses much of the multi-family housing contemplated in the draft Housing Element. Revisions to the California Building Code, going into effect in Jan 2023, redefined low-rise residential as single-family housing, thereby eliminating multi-family housing from compliance with Piedmont’s Reach codes.
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Should the City implement more comprehensive Reach codes for building types other than single-family housing (multi-family, religious, commercial, municipal, et al.), so that all new construction of any kind must be all-electric, and renovations to any building-type must abide by the same energy-efficiency rules?
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Answer:
In 2021 the City of Piedmont adopted Reach Codes which affect new construction and certain renovations to existing residences. These changes are momentous, including the requirement of all electric appliances and prohibition of gas hook-ups for new construction. I would certainly encourage that any new multi-family unit construction comply with the Reach Codes; however the state Density Bonus law may override Piedmont's local regulations.
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Question 3: According to Piedmont’s most recent annual greenhouse gas inventory, residential energy use accounts for approximately half of Piedmont’s annual greenhouse gas emissions with virtually all of these emissions attributed to the use of natural gas in Piedmont homes.
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What ideas would you propose and support to incentivize or require installation of electrical appliances in Piedmont’s homes at time of the replacement or remodel?
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Answer:
Most Piedmont homes were built when electricity needs were low and gas was inexpensive, as such, they do not have enough electrical panels to upgrade to all-electric. To change from gas heaters, dryers, fireplaces, ranges, and water heaters may require additional electrical panels, which may be cost-prohibitive. Using incentives versus mandates to encourage the gradual replacement of gas appliances in a cost efficient manner is a better approach. We need to educate the community on the benefits of reducing greenhouse gas emissions as well as provide information on any tax credits associated with replacement. At all times, we have to be very aware that there are serious issues with supply (grid shut down). We can't place any demands on Piedmont residents who depend on energy for certain health needs.
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Question 4: Piedmont is known for its tree-lined streets, parks and historic homes, all of which support mature, healthy native tree specimens. Piedmont may be the only Bay Area municipality without a tree ordinance to preserve the important public-benefits these biological assets provide.
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Should the City adopt a tree ordinance that requires a permit and establishes reasonable criteria for the removal of healthy, mature native or non-invasive trees on municipal, PUSD, or private property?
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Answer:
Healthy trees in Piedmont are necessary to reduce air and noise pollution. Trees contribute to the image of our city. We should protect and improve these resources in a cohesive manner; both on city land and private land. There should be an overall community tree management program; possibly using a volunteer committee of arborists who can advise the city with respect to trees on public land and be a source that residents can use for help on private property. The city should systematically evaluate trees on municipal and PUSD land. Many trees have been routinely pruned to accommodate utility wires to the detriment of the health and structure of the tree. The city should first focus on its own biological assets. During the 35 years I have lived in Piedmont I have rarely seen clearcutting of trees by private property owners; instead owners that remove a tree usually replace it with a healthier or native tree. I would not impose more restrictions on homeowners.
IN THE NEWS
1 / Husband-wife team merge their firm |
By Marie-Anne Hogarth – Sep 9, 2007
When L. Randolph Harris and Bridget McInerney Harris decided to combine their 12-year-old Oakland firm into the 50-lawyer shop of Cooper, White & Cooper LLP, the husband and wife team didn't get too sentimental about no longer practicing in tandem....
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Bridget Harris, who will chair her new firm's estate planning and trust practice, is working out of Cooper's Walnut Creek office.
L. Randolph Harris, now leading Cooper's tax practice, is working in San Francisco, although he will frequently visit the East Bay.
The couple, with two of four children still living at home, reside in Piedmont.
2 / News
(news)
3 / News
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