Culver City Chamber of Commerce Endorses Kimberley

The Culver City Chamber of Commerce has announced that it has endorsed Kimberley Griffin for Culver City Council.

“We recognize that some may ask why a chamber of commerce takes a position in local elections. The answer is that decisions made at City Hall have a direct and lasting impact on the businesses we represent,” the Chamber explained to its members. “In Culver City, more than 70% of the city’s operating budget comes directly from business activity. A thriving business community provides the resources needed for excellent city services, well-maintained public spaces, and a safe place to live, work and play.”

“I am proud to have earned the endorsement of the Chamber, which represents the businesses that are the lifeblood of our local economy,” Kimberley said.

In making its endorsement the Chamber said the following:

When the City manages its resources carefully and provides reliable services, businesses have the stability they need to hire, invest and grow. When finances are strained or services fall short, businesses and residents feel the effects through taxes and fees, changes to essential services, and challenges facing Downtown. We believe it is our responsibility to participate thoughtfully in the conversation about who will help lead our city. 

In considering candidates, we look for three important commitments: 

Support for local business. This means more than celebrating businesses at ribbon cuttings. It means a permitting process that works, policies developed with an understanding of what it takes to operate a business and make payroll, and recognition of the vital role small businesses play in Culver City’s character and vitality. 

Fiscal responsibility. Culver City, like many communities, faces a challenging financial environment. The City should carefully weigh new commitments against its long-term resources and priorities. Major investments, including the proposed $103 million real estate venture, deserve careful scrutiny, as do compensation increases and other commitments that could affect future budgets. Thoughtful budgeting helps ensure resources remain available for public safety, street maintenance, Downtown vitality and other services residents and businesses depend on. 

Transparency. We believe the best public decisions are made openly, with meaningful discussion and an opportunity for the community to understand what is being proposed. When significant matters are negotiated over extended periods or considered through processes that limit public discussion, residents and businesses may have fewer opportunities to ask questions and understand the implications before decisions are made. Businesses understand the importance of carefully reviewing significant commitments, and residents deserve the same opportunity when the City considers major financial or policy decisions. 

These principles are not partisan or focused on any single issue. They reflect our belief that a well-run city respects local businesses, carefully stewards public resources and remains committed to open government. 

Jeannine Wisnosky Stehlin and Kimberley Griffin have each publicly expressed support for local business, balanced budgeting and greater transparency in City government. Based on those commitments, the Culver City Chamber of Commerce is proud to endorse them for City Council.