Tom was elected to the City of Galt City Council in 2002 and served a full term of 4 years. Prior to his election to public office Tom served 16 years on the City of Galt Planning Commission and 9 years on the Sacramento Environmental Commission At various times Tom also Chaired both Commissions. Tom was also Chairman of the Galt General Plan Committee in 1989 and served as the President of the Galt Area Historical Society.
During Tom's term as a Galt City Council Member he also represented the City on the League of California Cities Transportation, Communications and Public Works Policy Committee, Sacramento Green print, Galt Public Safety Committee, Rails to Trails Advisory Group, League General Resolutions Committee and an alternate member of SACOG.. Tom also completed advanced study requirements of Advanced Leadership at the League of California Mayors and Council Members Academy and Great Valley Leadership Institute supported by Harvard's John F. Kennedy School of Government.