Candidate for
Board Member; Goleta Water District; 2 Year Term

EMERGING ISSUES:

There are emerging water issues, statewide. There are new contaminants, climatic changes, stricter security mandates, and extreme federal budget constraints - and there are issues with the reliability of State Water Project deliveries. There is tremendous competition for State Water. It is projected that California's population will grow by 18 million in the next 20 years. The competition for "foreign" water sources will intensify.

It's time to start thinking creatively about alternative water sources, and innovative water management approaches. We can no longer take water for granted, and we cannot manage for the future with tried and true thinking of the past. We need more local independence with respect to water.

IMPARTIALITY:

When making decisions about water rights and water sources for both the short-term and the long-term Goleta Water Board representatives must represent all water users fairly and equitably. Our District decisions and policies must be based on what's right for the rate payers and the District. For this reason I have declined to accept campaign contributions. I represent all of the people fairly and equitably. My decisions will be based on facts, needs, and sound business principles. I will not be influenced by "backers".

COLLABORATION:

I'm proud of my approach to breaking down institutional barriers between governmental agencies. I initiated a datasharing program between the County and the cities and special districts of Santa Barbara County; saving taxpayers tens of thousands of dollars, eliminating redundant practices, and giving a jumpstart on technology programs of these agencies. Cities and special districts in other counties, such as Ventura County, have sought my advice and are attempting to model similar programs in their counties.