Woerner Appointed to City Council

The city council on Monday found its final member by unanimously appointing Bob Woerner.

Woerner, who will vacate his seat on the planning commision to take the new post, was praised by council members for what he will bring to the table: a fresh perspective coupled with a strong budget and finance background.

"I'm really pleased with the comments made and I'm going to do my best to live up to them," Woerner said in an interview with reporters after his appointment. "It is a big job and I want to do it well."

While council members acknowledge he does not have the deep city government experience possess, it was Woerner's strong business background that gave him an edge.

He understands the importance of considering the emotional aspect of financial decisions, Councilmember Laureen Turner said.

During his interview with council members, Woerner said the city's Urban Growth Boundary and open space is vital to preserving the character of Livermore — a statement that impressed Vice Mayor Doug Horner.

"I absolutely value open space and the views that are there," Woerner said. "It is a very unique situation here and I think it should be preserved."

Woerner is a more than 35-year resident of Livermore. His appointment to the council fills a vacancy made by . Woerner's council seat is set to expire in November 2013.

He currently works as a senior director for customer service at Pacific Gas and Electric.

"At this stage of my life I would like to give back to the community that has provided my family and friends such a wonderful place to live," Woerner wrote in his application for the council's open seat. "I appreciate having been able to contribute as a member of the planning commission and would welcome the opportunity to do even more as a member of the city council."