Hermy Almonte - Your Candidate for San Leandro Council District 6

Dear San Leandrans,

I would like to tell you about myself and my values as I believe these factors are as important as a candidate’s stand on the issues in deciding whom to vote for.

I was born and raised in the Philippines by poor and hardworking parents.   My father was a carpenter and my mother took care of myself and my eight brothers and sisters.  We spoke Tagalog at home and I learned English in school.  From my parents, I learned the values of hard work, honesty, and integrity. 

I worked with my father performing manual labor while attending school.  He and my mother sacrificed greatly so they could send me and my siblings to college.

I came to America legally in 1989 and one year later began my career managing affordable housing for seniors and working families.  Helping provide quality housing for seniors and those in need has been a rewarding career.  It has also given me the opportunity to work with, and learn from, peoples of diverse and varied backgrounds. 

In 1994, I became an American citizen.  My wife Maria and I have raised two children, Mia and Mathew.  Both graduated from San Leandro High School and are attending college.  I am proud that Mia will be graduating this school year from California State University - East Bay in Hayward.  Matthew is a junior at the University of Pacific in Stockton.

America and San Leandro have given so much to me and my family.  I wanted to give back to our community.  In 2008, I ran for the San Leandro School Board and won.  With the state budget crisis negatively impacting all school districts, it has been a challenging period.  We have made hard, but necessary, decisions and kept the district’s budget balanced. 

I insisted on accountability at all levels, from the classroom to the Superintendent’s office.  I collaborated with the other trustees in making sure that the construction of the beautiful new performing arts theater and 9th grade campus that solved the overcrowding at the high school were completed on time and under budget.

Today, I wish to continue my service to the people of San Leandro as your next representative for Council District 6.

Please visit me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Almonte-for-San-Leandro-City-Council-2012/481866758493294 to learn more about my campaign and position on the issues.

Sincerely, 

Hermy Almonte