Q & A with Andy Cohen

Rose Jacobs Gibson will vacate her seat on the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors this year. 

Six people want her job, which is to represent the interests of District 4. The district encompasses Redwood City, Menlo Park, East Palo Alto and houses about 150,000 people, according to the latest census data. 

Patch sent all of them a list of questions about their candidacy, so that you could become more familiar with them in advance of the June 5 election.

1) Talk to me about why you’re the best candidate to represent District 4.

I am willing to speak up for the underrepresented on all issues, and will speak truth to power.  

2) What would you prioritize if you got voted in?

Housing and transportation within a sustainanable, fiscally balanced budget overall. 

3) Who are your primary supporters?

Over 8 years I have consistently earned the support of political and non profit leaders by my open inclusion and transparent conduct. 

4) What issue in the county is the most important in your eyes and what’s your position on it?

Housing is the one issue that cities will no longer champion without redevelopment services. The county must do so. 

5) What is one line item that you think could be eliminated from the county budget?

The new county jail. 

6) Tell me about a way that you would raise revenue for the county.

The hotel occupancy and parking garages. 

7) What’s your background?

Attorney 20 years, workers compensation judge 14 years, Dartmouth College 1961, BA Economics with Honors, Stanford Law 1968 JD, Lt. USN, Ret. 

8) What is one thing that most constituents don’t know about you?

I have painted for 30 years, oils, water color, mixed media.  

9) Do you speak any other languages, besides English?

French poorly.  

10) If someone wants to contact you, what is the best way for them to do so?

650-327-5332, andymcohen@me.com