It's (almost) OFFICIAL!

[Michael Kovac]

So the signatures have been gathered, the forms have been filled, and the statements have been written. Barring any last minute issues with signature validation (I've collect ample signatures - just in case!) I should be a full fledged candidate for the City Council of Santa Monica.

I've committed to making this campaign as transparent as possible - sharing my trials and tribulations with anyone who's interested - in the hope of truly learning from - and representing the people who make Santa Monica such a phenomenal place to call home.

With that in mind, gathering the required 100 signatures was the first step to getting this campaign kicked off. Initially, a close friend, somewhat in jest, suggested calling 100 of my closest friends to get them to sign my nomination form. While it sounded tempting (truthfully, finding 100 friends might be a bit challenging) I knew that there would be no better way to gather peoples' ideas and concerns than speaking with them as I worked to earn their 'vote of confidence.'

So you may have seen me around town - talking to people in parking lots like the one at Bob's Market on Ocean Park - about what they really cared about and wanted from their Council. It's both a humbling and entertaining experience to be 'that person' trying to get peoples attention to hear you out - on why they should sign your form. I met the full spectrum of citizens - from those who are interested that I'm running to those who though I must be out of my mind for wanting to get involved. The one thing everyone had in common was a strong opinion on the specific issues that they care deeply about... We really are a city of activists!

I learned a tremendous amount about what makes Santa Monicans tick - and what ticks off Santa Monicans. So my time was well spent - and from each of the hundreds of people I spoke to - I truly learned something that should prove helpful in the coming months and years.

To all those I met - and for those just joining me - thanks for your support, interest, words of encouragement and most importantly, for sharing your view of What Santa Monica Wants.

MK