Poe enters race as a write-in

Bryan Poe Oak Park voters have another choice besides the candidates who will be listed on the Nov. 4 ballot for the Municipal Advisory Council.

Bryan Poe is running as a write-in candidate for the MAC, which means that people must write his name in the appropriate space on the ballot in order for him to receive votes.

Names already on the ballot are Alon Glickstein, Drew Fine and Derek Ross. Michael McReynolds' name will appear on the ballot, too, although he is no longer running due to injuries he suffered in the September Metrolink train crash.

There are two open seats being contested.

Poe didn't decide to run until Oct. 15, too late for the county to include his name on the ballot. He supports efforts to strengthen schools, improve the quality of life in the community, increase safety for children, and develop programs to keep children active and healthy.

"I believe that candidates for a non-partisan advisory position should not have personal agendas," Poe said. "If a candidate can start with an open mind, they will be more prepared to hear and act on the wishes of the community," said Poe, 45.

A California native, Poe has a bachelor's degree in industrial technology from Cal State Fresno. He is vice president of construction for Current Trend Contractors Inc. in Agoura Hills.

Poe and his wife, Connie, moved from Studio City to Oak Park in 2003 so his three children could attend Oak Park schools. Kendria is now 21. Lily, 15, is a student at Oak Park High School, and Alex, 11, attends Medea Creek Middle School.

"When I first came to Oak Park, it felt like returning home. It is my deep desire to help maintain the lovely sense of community in Oak Park so that others can garner a similar appreciation."

Poe has served as a volunteer coach and referee for local soccer and baseball teams. He has been involved in the Triunfo YMCA's Indian Guides and Trailblazer programs.

Oak Park resident Roger Gunn has seen Poe in action as a coach and feels that he is qualified to serve on the MAC.

"Many of my interactions with Bryan have been in the most intense arena imaginable for testing someone's patience, poise, and ability to handle pressure: coaching kids' sports," Gunn said.

"His interactions with parents, referees, players, and other coaches show his understanding of the right priorities . . . creating a nurturing, learning environment for our kids, not about who has the biggest trophy on the mantelpiece," said Gunn.