Will this be the year that the man who, almost inarguably, contends that he comprehends and digests the inner/outer workings of the School District better than all others, will be rewarded with a prized seat on the School Board?
Two weeks before Election Day, on Nov. 3, Alan Elmont says that three months of campaigning have affirmed his convictions that “I have more experience, knowledge and understanding of the School District and of the role of the School Board than any of my competition.”
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Candidate Alan Elmont, right foreground, holding sign
How does he know this?
“I am auditory, so I hear it,” said the second-time contender.
“I have listened to some fellow candidates struggle with more intricate questions. They have an understanding of how they might inform voters, but all of them demonstrate the need to learn, to listen and to spend time in an apprenticeship.
“One of the key differences is I can hit the ground running on every key point that has come up in this campaign.”
Has he been able to capitalize on this perceived array of advantages?
“This is not about one-upsmanship,” Mr. Elmont said. “It’s about the ability to take new ideas or even discarded ones, invest them and lobby with at least two other Board members to set new policies.
“Here is the advantage of having that knowledge:
“Being able to go into the School Board and bring forth ideas that come from the community, from the students, then knowing where and how to apply them. I know how the District works to make (policies) apply.
Making the System Work
“You listen to what people want to happen. Then you discuss ways in which it can happen, or ways in which we can find work-arounds when those are needed.”
Two years ago, Mr. Elmont, best known for his perfect attendance record at School Board meetings, lost out to Scott Zeidman and Steve Gourley.
A big difference this time, he claims.
He is confident that he can win one of the three open seats because, unlike ’07, he has abandoned his long-wolf pose. He is underpinned and guided by a full-blown campaign organization.
“I tried to do everything by myself the first time,” said Mr. Elmont. “Having a campaign manager (Janet Chabola) show me what I have to do has made such a difference.
“I didn’t have help two years ago. And I didn’t ask for any. I didn’t realize what a challenge a campaign is. I didn’t realize how large the city is if you are walking it.
Wrong Assumption
“Small town and few voters — that was the way I thought. I can do this by myself. I was running without any money or support.
“This campaign is so different. I still am running it very lean. I don’t have the financial support a couple of candidates are able to come up with.
“I can’t afford the slick brochures. But that is okay. Creative printing has the same information. It’s just less expensive.”
Ms. Chabola, Mr. Elmont’s manager, knows the nuances and the players across Culver City, and they know her.
“Janet has lived in Culver City for a very long time,” Mr. Elmont said. “She has shown me that the community has a whole political character to it. I did not realize that when I ran before.
“Many people in this community look to see who is endorsing folks. They look to see who is behind you. They trust in the opinions of certain people.
“I was not aware this dynamic was in play. Not long ago, Laura Stuart, who is well-known, called to say she was endorsing me. Having someone like that support me is big.”
Mr. Elmont turned to one of his favorite questions.
“People ask why they should vote for me,” he said. “I am better prepared and I am more familiar with the issues facing our District than any of my competition.”
