Candidate Statements 2024

We are sharing the Candidate Statements in the order they were received by Clayton Watch.

Rich Enea, Sr - Candidate Statement 2024

Rich Enea, Sr

My name is Richard Enea.  My wife Beth and I raised our children here in Clayton.  I was a Clayton Police Sergeant for many years.  

My son currently works for the Clayton Police Department for over 

20 years.

I currently serve on the Planning Commission and was former chair.  

I serve on the Black Diamond HOA Board and am a member of the CBCA.

The City balanced the budget this year by using $250,000.00 from the reserve account, which still has a balance of $7.7 million in the account.

I will look for ways to attract new businesses to our city.  We have a new restaurant coming 

and a new UPS store.

Public Safety is a major issue for me.  We need another Police Officer that would be dedicated as a traffic officer and other policing as needed.  The safety of Clayton residents is a high priority for me.

I am an Independent thinker and always try to get a consensus among people.  We need to work together for the good of Clayton.  In my 30 years of Law Enforcement, I always tried to reach a fair outcome for all parties.

I ask for your vote.  Thank you.

If you have any questions, please call me: 707-218-5757

_______________________

Maria Shulman - Candidate Statement 2024

Maria Shulman

Who Is Maria Shulman?

I am a woman of common sense, not nonsense,

I am a wife, mother, friend, volunteer, nurse, and educator. 

I have served on the Clayton Planning Commission for two years, and in the last year, I served as Vice Chair of the committee. 

My background is in criminal justice, banking, nursing, teaching, and healthcare administration; I will strive to bring people together to solve problems through collaboration. 

I am willing to step up and step out so our community can step in and unite. I am ready to address your needs and issues facing our city head-on.

I would genuinely appreciate your support. Thank you.

________________________

Jim Diaz - Candidate Statement 2024

Jim Diaz

 

It is an honor and privilege to serve Clayton as Mayor and Councilmember since 2012. During that time, I utilize my experience as a Small BusinessOwner and Planning Commissioner to bring about change (when needed) and controlled growth to Clayton.

My community volunteerism includes: serving as the Producer of the Concerts In The Grove and the Classic Car Shows; Co-chaired several Clayton Festival events.

 

Positioning Clayton for Success: Priorities:

Public Safety - assuring Clayton remains a safe community,

Quality of Life - Improve quality of life through well-planned development, keeping Clsyton's charm and small town feel,

Good Listener - Making sure everyone’s voice is heard.

 

On the council, I have:

• Helped guide the pursuit of fiscal responsibility: Balanced Budget each year,

• Championed the Community Financial Sustainability Committee to review Clayton’s Financials, set priorities and direction,  

• Spearheaded the reopening of Fire Station No. 11,

• Advocated for Law Enforcement; support Clayton Police Department’s development and community involvement.

Moving forward, my priority: keep Clayton's charm and small town feel. Further, all citizens should know their rights and understand their responsibility to Clayton; be part of the solution.

Clayton is special; let’s keep it that way.

________________________

Holly Tillman

Holly Tillman - Candidate Statement 2024 

(She decided not to reply to our invitation.)

Holly has decided not to participate in this aspect of the political process. A look back at her website from four years ago compared to her latest website raises doubts about the credibility of her statements. While it may seem she has addressed all our concerns, one must question whether her previous alarming claims have simply disappeared or were never substantiated in the first place. In 2020, Holly made several bold and nefarious statements in her campaign materials that taint Clayton’s image, including: 

1. Clayton is a city plagued by racism. 

2. The Clayton police are involved in profiling. 

3. Residents feel unsafe when out at night. 

4. Clayton is a Sundowner town. 

There are more reasons to think about Holly as a candidate for Clayton: 

> The city experienced protests in downtown Clayton on two different occasions, leading to businesses being boarded up. 

> Local diners encountered harassment from protesters, and Holly has acknowledged her involvement in organizing these events.

Here are some screenshots from Holly's 2020 campaign website, along with some quotes from the Clayton Pioneer, that shed light on her true character. Perhaps this clarifies why she was hesitant to respond to our letter, and why her new website sounds like a completely different person.

As published in the Clayton Pioneer in 2020, Holly made following statements when asked the following questions by the Pioneer. Do you believe Clayton has a problem with racism that needs to be addressed? “Yes, it exists everywhere. My family has experienced racism numerous times in Clayton, and there are residents (and your neighbors) hiding in their homes because they said they do not feel welcome in town.” What is your vision for Clayton in the next four years? Long term? “In four years, I envision traffic safety fully implemented, our police department fully staffed and landscaping being a priority. I also envision a more collaborative community working together to ensure we are not known as a racist town. Long term, I would like to see some type of recreation for children in addition to the parks.”

Unfortunately, supporting Holly will lead to more disruptive, dividing, unruly, contentious, and inflammatory council meetings. Clayton needs new leadership that emphasizes stability and common sense over progressive agendas.