BURLINGAME VOTERS must decide Nov. 3 if they want to stick with the status quo or give a seat to a newcomer.

Mayor Ann Keighran, Vice Mayor Cathy Baylock and five-term Councilwoman Rosalie O'Mahony are running for re-election, and the only challenger is eight-year planning commissioner Michael Brownrigg.

Brownrigg, a venture capitalist and former U.S. diplomat, has the kind of business and financial skills that would help the city stay fiscally prudent and grow the business base to increase city revenues. His experience on the Planning Commission has given him expertise on city matters and he is well qualified to serve on the City Council.

However, the three incumbents have done an excellent job guiding the city and deserve to be re-elected so they can follow through on the work they began in previous terms on the council.

A prime example is a new Safeway to replace the old one on Howard Avenue. After years of wrangling, the new grocery store is slated to open in December 2010 with a design that addresses the concerns of nearby residents and business owners.

Keighran, Baylock and O'Mahony all have good ideas on how to improve the downtown area. They favor more diversity than just shops and restaurants and suggest that adding entertainment venues, such as a theater, would liven things up on Burlingame Avenue.

Keighran also suggests an Internet cafe, Baylock would like to see a boutique hotel open and O'Mahony wants more downtown parks.

All of the incumbents are longtime residents with a deep understanding of Burlingame issues and their previous experience on the City Council is invaluable. That experience is critical in order for the city to maintain the quality of services Burlingame is known for.

Brownrigg would be a good councilman, but we urge you to re-elect Keighran, Baylock and O'Mahony.