Ahead of the November general election, the Southern California News Group compiled a list of questions to pose to the candidates who wish to represent you. You can find the full questionnaire below. Questionnaires may have been edited for spelling, grammar, length and, in some instances, to remove hate speech and offensive language.
MORE: Read all the candidate responses in our Voter Guide
Name: Kim Knaus
Current job title: Chief Operating Officer
Incumbent: No
Other political positions held: None
City where you reside: San Bernardino
Campaign website or social media: www.votekimknaus.com, www.instagram.com/votekimknaus
How can the city best meet the demand and mandates for more housing, including at lower prices, while also preserving the quality of life for existing neighborhoods and residents?
I believe the city can best meet the demands with smart development and zoning reforms. We need to encourage the development of affordable housing in areas where it makes the most sense, such as underutilized or vacant lots, and through mixed-use zoning that integrates housing with retail and services. We should update our zoning codes to support higher density housing in areas close to transit and job centers, but with clear guidelines to ensure that these developments align with the character of our neighborhoods. It is imperative that we also streamline the permitting and approval processes for housing developments to help meet the demand more efficiently.
How should the city balance paying off debts, such as pension liabilities, and building reserves all while meeting residents’ needs? Should a solution involve finding new revenue, trimming the budget, or something else entirely? (Max 200 words.)
San Bernardino must balance paying off debts, including pension liabilities, with building reserves and meeting residents’ needs through a multi-pronged approach:1. Fiscal discipline: We should prioritize trimming wasteful spending while protecting essential services like public safety and infrastructure maintenance. This will require a comprehensive audit to eliminate inefficiencies.2. New revenue streams: Rather than burdening residents with higher taxes, we should focus on sustainable revenue by encouraging business growth, streamlining permitting and creating public-private partnerships. Revitalizing underutilized commercial spaces will boost revenue naturally through a stronger local economy.3. Pension updates: Collaborating with unions and stakeholders, we can explore pension updates that ensure fair benefits while addressing long-term financial obligations. Additionally, we should seek opportunities to refinance debt at favorable rates. The feds just cut the rates today, Sept. 18.4. Building reserves gradually: Savings from efficiency improvements and modest surpluses should be used to gradually build reserves, providing financial stability in future downturns.
In your opinion, what is the biggest need your city faces, and how would you address it?
Our biggest need is improved public safety. San Bernardino has consistently ranked in the top 10 most dangerous cities in the nation. Our city has been plagued by gang violence and high crime for far too long. This is not acceptable. Our residents and businesses deserve better. I am committed to partnering with San Bernardino County agencies, public safety, and community partners by advocating for policies and funding that protect and expand our ability to provide the necessary resources to ensure our safety and well-being. It is important to make sure we are addressing the root causes of many issues, such as mental health, addiction and socioeconomic factors. To do so, it will take a collaborative effort. Additionally, we must focus on economic revitalization. Decades of economic challenges have resulted in higher than average unemployment, limited job opportunities, and a strained city budget, impacting the quality of life for us residents. Addressing this requires a comprehensive strategy focused on job creation, business growth and workforce development. To revitalize the economy, we need to attract new businesses while supporting existing ones.
Why would you make a good leader, and how would you represent the diverse communities of your city?
I have been a dedicated community leader with strong roots in San Bernardino, committed to my hometown from my early education to my professional career. I attended local elementary, middle and high school, and attended Cal State San Bernardino. I’ve spearheaded transformative initiatives, such as preserving the Verdemont Community Center, revitalizing movie nights in the park, and establishing SB Foodfest, a monthly food festival to support small businesses. As the former senior field representative for our district’s county supervisor, I understand the intricacies of municipal governance and the importance of collaborating effectively with diverse agencies. Currently, as chief operating officer for Youth Action Project, I lead programs that empower our youth and strengthen our community. My leadership is rooted in deep community involvement, practical experience, and a passion for San Bernardino’s future. As a devoted wife and mother raising two children here, I’m committed to ensuring San Bernardino becomes a great place to live and work. My proven ability to lead initiatives, build partnerships, and navigate complex challenges makes me the leader our city needs to thrive.
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