Three other names will appear on the ballot: Ralph Farias Jr., who seems enthusiastic but has no relevant experience; Steve Oiwa, who’s invisible to my internet searches and who’s apparently done no campaigning; and Lawrence Fitzpatrick, whose bizarre proposal to install a toll booth on Foothill Blvd. demonstrates his incompetence for elected office.

A reporter for the Daily Review (Hayward’s local newspaper) has thus far written profiles of four candidates (Fitzpatrick, Farias, Salinas, and Lamnin), and promises two more. [Added: Mr. Peixoto's profile was published on Monday, May 24.]

Unfortunately, when I examine the campaign materials, web sites, and other information provided by the three serious candidates, I can’t identify any reasons why I might vote for one over another.

Ms. Lamnin, Mr. Peixato, and Mr. Salinas have all devoted considerable time to serving the local Hayward community, including service on local commissions (each having held positions appointed by the city council) and for local nonprofits. All three have long lists of endorsements from very credible local civic leaders and organizations (some are listed as having endorsed all three candidates!).

As is typical, all three candidates have web sites which summarize their community service experience, combined with many platitudes, and identification of some current “issues of concern” to Hayward residents.  All three seem to have a clear understanding of many complex local issues, and all seem sincere in their desire to serve the community.

But none of the three serious candidates offers any specific proposals or solutions.  And after reading through all these materials, I have no sense of what differences exist between the three candidates. I don’t know what they might do, or how they might vote, even on the issues they’ve discussed.

I’m looking forward to learning more about the three candidates, so I can make an informed, educated choice about which two of these folks to vote for.

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Added May 27: The Daily Review newspaper today published its endorsements for the Hayward City Council race. After dismissing Fitzpatrick, Oiwa, and Farias, and after briefly summarizing the other three candidate’s qualifications and experience, they wrote:

Peixto, Lamnin, and Salinas, are all well qualified to serve, but unfortunately, there are only two open seats.

“Peixto has seasoning as an elected official. The former budget analyst is also strong on fiscal issues that will be key moving forward. Lamnin has impressed us with her fresh perspective, energy and knowledge of the issues.

“We endorse Marvin Peixto and Sarah Lamnin for Hayward City Council.”

http://www.insidebayarea.com/ci_15167602

While I agree that Mr. Peixoto has more relevant experience, that doesn’t mean to me that he’s the best candidate.  The newspaper’s editorial board couldn’t articulate why they chose Ms. Lamnin over Mr. Salinas.

I’m still not aware of any clear differences between these three candidates that might help me make my own decision.