Ahead of the June primary election, the Bay Area News Group compiled a list of questions to pose to the candidates for Contra Costa County assessor. You can find the full questionnaire below. Questionnaires may have been edited for spelling, grammar, length and clarity.
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Name: Kismat Kathrani
Current job title: President and CEO of Info Way Solutions
Date of birth: October 18, 1973
Political party affiliation: N/A
Other political positions held: None
City where you reside: San Ramon
What are the top three problems you’re seeking to solve if elected assessor?
- Outdated systems and inefficiency: The office needs modernization with better technology and data to ensure faster, more accurate assessments.
- Long appeals timelines: Reduce delays and create a faster, more efficient appeals process.
- Inconsistent assessments and customer service: Ensure fair, uniform, data-driven valuations across all properties and best-in-class service so residents and businesses get timely, helpful support.
Why are you uniquely qualified to address the three problems you’ve identified above?
Proven business leadership: I’ve built and managed organizations where accuracy, efficiency and accountability are critical — skills directly needed to modernize the assessor’s office.
Data-driven approach: I rely on technology and analytics to improve systems, reduce errors and ensure fair, consistent outcomes.
Operational expertise: I’ve led teams and streamlined processes, which will help reduce appeals timelines and improve overall efficiency.
Customer-first mindset: My experience working with clients has instilled a focus on responsiveness and service — bringing best-in-class support to taxpayers.
Fresh, independent perspective: I’m not a career politician, which allows me to focus on practical solutions, transparency and real results.
What differentiates you from your competitors for this seat?
Not a career politician: I bring a fresh, independent perspective focused on results, not politics as usual.
Proven business leadership: I’ve built and scaled organizations, managed budgets and delivered measurable outcomes.
Technology and modernization focus: I will bring data-driven systems to improve accuracy, reduce appeals time and increase transparency.
Customer-first approach: I’m committed to best-in-class service so every taxpayer is treated with respect and responsiveness.
Accountability and transparency: I will run this office with clear metrics, openness and a commitment to earning public trust.
What did Gus Kramer do right as assessor?
Gus Kramer has served the county for many years. He’s had a long tenure and understands the system well. Anyone serving that long brings experience and a deep understanding of the system.
What did Gus Kramer do wrong as assessor?
Kramer faced serious misconduct allegations. A Contra Costa County Civil Grand Jury filed a formal accusation against him for “willful or corrupt misconduct,” alleging he violated state law by creating a hostile work environment for multiple employees. The accusation cited unwanted sexual remarks to female employees (the comments to one of the victims was also ethnically disparaging) between 2013 and 2019 — the case ended in a mistrial. The county also paid $1 million in 2009 to settle a lawsuit with a female employee who alleged retaliation, and the Fair Political Practices Commission fined him $5,500 for campaign finance violations.
Who are the three biggest contributors to your campaign? Why are they donating to your campaign?
Self.
Please tell us anything about you that would help inform our judgment of your candidacy.
Entrepreneur who built a business from the ground up, creating jobs and driving economic growth. Over 18 years of leadership experience managing teams, budgets and complex operations. Deep understanding of accountability, financial discipline and delivering measurable results. Active involvement in community and professional organizations supporting workforce development. Committed to bringing transparency, efficiency and a customer-first approach to public service.
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