When we made the initial decision on the election date we hadn't really thought about the extra cost and confusion.

It's affecting the morale of employees, hanging over their heads. We need to get it over with sooner rather than later. It's much better for employees and residents.

A lot is going to be determined by the market. We?re hoping to be a catalyst.

We've worked hard with every department to minimize cuts to services. But there's no way around it. These are major cuts, and they are going to be felt throughout the community.

That kind of leadership is what I was looking for in a chief.

We would like to have the event stay downtown if at all possible. It helps downtown merchants, and it does help people get to know Watsonville. But if it doesn't work out, we're willing to cooperate, and we're just thankful the event is able to carry on.