Sac Bee endorsements

By Matt Kelly

Editorial Board slams candidates supported by Fire Fighters. Candidates labeled as "Lap Dogs"

As a candidate for the Division 7 position on the Sacramento Metro Fire Board, I have followed with great interest the series of "editorials" and endorsements made by the Bee for the elected board positions.

I take great exception to being characterized as a "lap dog" candidate in the most recent editorial printed October 27th, The entire tone of the recent commentary leads me to wonder if, in this case, the Bee has an agenda rather than the public interest in mind.

None of the articles have explored the community service background, capabilities or qualifications of the candidates, only questioned a perceived relationship between candidates and Firefighters 522. This is not responsible or accurate commentary.

I decided to become a candidate for the District 7 position because I felt that my background and experience might bring some stability and insight to a position with a huge responsibility for the public safety of our community. I have not been, nor will I ever become a "lap dog" for any individual or organization. If elected, each of my decisions will be carefully considered with community interest and effective emergency services in mind.

While I respect the right of the Bee to endorse candidates as it sees fit, the Bee has endorsed based on their seething dislike for public safety Unions. My thought is that they should endorse based on a candidates experience managing and leading.

My involvement with a variety of community organizations over a number of years has given me a wealth of experience and significant awareness of neighborhood issues that is the basis of my candidacy.

They include; Board Member for WEAVE (Women Escaping A Violent Environment). Prior to and while serving on the board, volunteered many hours to fund raising and the construction of the headquarters building.

Rebuilding Together, A volunteer community group working to repair distressed homes in the Del Paso Heights and Oak Park areas for low income (many elderly) homeowners.

LEED (Linking Education and Economic Development), A volunteer group of community business, education and labor leaders providing educational and solid employment and school to career opportunities for young persons in our community.

Board Member for Roberts Family Development Center, A non-profit organization serving Del Paso with childcare, after school services and parenting classes and other community assistance efforts, I've dedicated many hours to organizing volunteers and re-building the neighborhood service center.

California Contractors State License Board, Chairman of the Enforcement Committee, dedicated to assuring quality construction services throughout California and providing consumer protection in a diverse and far-reaching industry.

I am committed to actively serving the residents of District 7 on the Sacramento Metro Fire Board to provide the highest quality emergency services possible with a fiscally responsible approach, I will not be any ones "lap dog".

Matt Kelly District 7 Board Member Sacramento Metro Fire Board