Meet Fremont City Council Candidate Yogi Chugh
FREMONT, CA — Fremont City Council candidate Yogi Chugh makes his case to voters in a Q&A with Patch:
Age (as of Election Day)
55
City of Residence
Fremont
Office Sought
City Council District 6
Party affiliation
Democrat
Family
Monika Chugh, Wife: 2 Children
Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
No
Education
BS, Sciences Delhi university, India; BA Management SJSU
Occupation
Small Business Owner
Campaign website
The single most pressing issue facing our city is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.
HOUSING. The truth is, infrastructure has not kept up pace with development. We built too much, too fast, and ironically enough we aren’t even addressing the affordability component of our housing crisis at all. I believe there is a place in Fremont for everyone — I want my children to grow up one day, find jobs, and afford to live and build their lives in Fremont like I was able to. We need to practice smart growth planning, and coordinate better with our school district to ensure we have the school infrastructure and physical infrastructure in place to support our growing population. I am not taking contributions from developers, because I think we need to push back harder on them for not offering more diverse housing profiles for low and missing middle income home buyers in their portfolios. And, I think the development that is currently being considered has to be more cognizant of maintaining the current character of the community. I think we strayed from these values for too long, and I will be a champion on these issues on the City Council.
What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
None of my opponents have the breadth of experience and involvement in our City as I have. I started my small business in Fremont, my wife started her medical practice here, and our children attend(ed ) Fremont public schools. Over 35 years, I have been involved in many of our most recognizable non profit organizations, and participated in some of the most distinguishable events and programs our City has to offer. I am supported by many local decision makers that we know and trust. And most importantly, my commitment to Fremont is unchallenged. I love our community, and I intend on putting politics aside, to make the best decisions and guide us forward.
Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform
COVID Recovery - Strong Partnerships between City Hall and our School District - Smarter Solutions for Safer Communities
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I've served our City in various capacities including as a Fremont Planning Commissioner, Board of Directors for local non-profits including the Fremont Education Foundation, 4th of July Committee, Drivers for Survivors and others, and most recently as an economic development commissioner for the city. These experiences have shown me the value of community driven decision making, and great perspective on the housing and economic challenges facing real families and residents of our City. My involvement in the community has been strong, and I intend to continue this commitment to our City for many more years.
If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office as a success?
It comes back to my platform: ensuring a bold economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic; stronger partnerships between City Hall and our School Districts that allow for greater infrastructure planning and resources to be allocated efficiently and effectively; reimagining the future of public safety as we enter into our new chapter of community policing; and building housing that makes sense, and that is truly affordable to keep future generations in Fremont here for the long run. We can achieve these accomplishments all together -- we are not limited to just one over others. I know we can deliver on these promises, because Fremont residents deserve it, and there is energy from our community to make a success out of it!
Why should voters trust you?
Voters can trust me, because of my record of service to the community, and my endorsements from the names we trust in elected office. State Controller Betty Yee, Senator Bob Wieckowski, Congressman Ro Khanna and others are supporting my campaign because they know of my involvement, and believe in our shared desires for our district including housing that makes sense, strong and safe neighborhoods, and a livable and vibrant business community. I have experience on many community non-profits and city commissions-- my commitment is to Fremont first, and to the residents we serve!
What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the use of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?
These are serious times, requiring serious action. “A rising tide lifts all boats.” On Council I will work with our schools and local organizations to help our most vulnerable residents, repair our social safety net, and expand essential services to help families struggling to make ends meet. We must also budget for recovery and beyond by maximizing efficiencies to direct funds to City programs that make the most impact quickly. By being mindful of spending, but investing smartly and wisely, we will really be able to make an impact for those that are hurting the most. I am a true believer in accountability and transparency in the budgeting process, and I will welcome new perspectives and decisions that will keep Fremont one of the most well run cities in the Country.
Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family?
No.
The best advice ever shared with me was ...
Listen. Listen to people, hear what they have to say. Reflect on their responses and input. You can really learn a lot, when you take the time to stop and listen.
What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I have earned the endorsements of many organizations such as the Democratic Party and elected officials including Congressmen Ro Khanna and Eric Swalwell, Senator Bob Wieckowski, Assemblyman Bill Quirk, Former Mayor Gus Morrison, Council members Teresa Keng, Rick Jones, Raj Salwan, FUSD Trustee Desrie Campbell and others across the City. But most importantly, I would be honored to earn YOUR vote in the upcoming election. Together, we really can bring bold solutions for our recovery!
This article originally appeared on the Fremont Patch
