Endorsement Letter from Adriene Tissier, Kevin Mullin & Bob Grassilli

We would like to take this opportunity to tell you why we strongly believe that Joe Galligan is the best choice to fill the critical role of the next San Mateo County Tax Collector-Treasurer.

Joe is a Certified Public Accountant and has run his own successful tax practice for the past 30 years. He was one of the founding directors of the San Mateo County National Bank, where he served as a Bank Director. He sat on the Audit Committee and the Asset and Liability Committee which overlooked the investment policies and actual investment vehicles used by the bank. Their investments were stable and profitable.

During his eight years as a member of the Burlingame City Council, including two years as Mayor, he was instrumental in meticulously managing City funds to keep a balance between funding necessary City services and setting up large reserves for unanticipated future expenses and economic downturns. It is because of his foresight and leadership that the council is now able to draw upon those reserves today.

He played a key role in merging the Burlingame and Hillsborough Fire Departments to become the Central County Fire Department, resulting in saving the City of Burlingame and Town of Hillsborough $2 million a year - every year.

He was invaluable in the efforts in catching a Burlingame librarian who embezzled an unprecedented $400,000 from the City, working with Burlingame's Auditors. He was also able to work out a repayment plan where the City will receive back all of its losses.

Yet while his past is impressive, it's time we look toward the future. The loss of $155 million in tax payer money as a result of the Lehman Brothers bankruptcy was nothing short of tragic. The County is already facing ongoing budget deficits as a result of the economic crisis and this was a blow we simply could not afford.

The next Tax Collector/Treasurer will be responsible for investing and managing over $2.5 billion. These are funds entrusted from our local cities, schools, construction bonds and other municipal holdings. The earnings are used to help pay for our safety personnel, teachers, and all other costs to run local government. The safety and prosperity of these funds is vitally important for each and every one of the citizens of San Mateo County. And while it may sound simple, a crucial part of the job of Tax Collector and Treasurer is making sure there is enough cash in the bank to pay all of the bills. Given the perilous nature of the Federal and State governments with regards to their funds, this role is extremely significant and needs a leader who has the skills and experience necessary to get the job done.

Joe Galligan will bring new, strong leadership to the office the County Tax Collector/Treasurer. He will bring new ideas, positive change and the necessary skills to keep the County Treasury safe. Please join us in supporting and endorsing Joe Galligan for Tax Collector/Treasurer.

Adrienne Tissier    Kevin Mullin     Bob Grassilli

Endorsement

Joe continues to serve as a member of the Mercy High School Board of Directors and additionally he chairs the board's Finance, Building & Grounds Committee. Joe has been instrumental in ensuring that the financial stewardship responsibilities of the board are met. His expertise in assisting with the strategic financial plans for both operating and capital budgets has been invaluable to our school community. Underlying his dedication to the Mercy High School community is his commitment to the school's mission and philosophy of offering a quality, college preparatory program for young women.

Laura M. Held,Principal
Mercy High School
Burlingame, CA 94010