Jeff Blakeley tells council he would bring construction, board and fiscal experience; raises wildfire, internet concerns

Jeff Blakeley was interviewed on April 14 for the vacant Council seat #4, citing a lifetime in the construction industry, service on multiple boards and financial oversight roles as reasons he could contribute to the council. The council asked each candidate the same set of questions; Blakeley emphasized practical experience and community service.

Blakeley said he had ‘‘a lot to offer the City’’ through leadership roles on boards, service as a union auditor and work on a school finance committee. He described himself as a fiscal conservative and pointed to public-safety concerns, saying he started "a fundraiser through his Union to help the Fire Department" after a mild winter increased wildfire worry. He also raised concerns about the capacity of the Sheriff’s Department’s Search and Rescue program and criticized a pending legislative bill regarding sheriffs, saying the measure "would hinder the rights of voters" and urging community engagement if the bill is not overturned.

Blakeley told the council he was working on a proposal to address the city’s failing internet service and planned to pursue the project whether or not he is appointed. Councilmember Margie Lee confirmed there is community interest in addressing local broadband problems. The council took no vote at the meeting; staffing clarified that seat #4 must be filled before the council proceeds to appoint to seat #5 and that additional interviews are scheduled for April 28, 2026.