An Open Letter

By Lance Monosoff

First Stage of Campaign

It's time to solve our water problems.

I am running for election this November to the Board of Directors of the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District, to represent the Carmel and Carmel Valley areas.

As a local, I lived through the drought of 1975 when each of us was rationed 50 gallons of water per day. Seventeen years ago, I moved next to the Carmel River. Each summer I watch as the River is over pumped and transforms from a living and vibrant river into a barren dry riverbed.

Cal-Am Water Company continues to pump water illegally from the Carmel River each year. The State of California has ordered Cal-Am to stop this over pumping or face severe financial penalties. We the consumers will pay for these penalties through higher water bills.

It is time we move forward with a solution to provide new legal water. After much discussion and analysis, a solution has come forward: a small desalination plant sized to meet the needs of our residents and to protect the Carmel River. If elected, I will use my experience in working with a wide variety of residents and people in the business and environmental communities to bring us together and build a viable new water source.

As a business owner for twenty-four years, I understand the pressures and responsibilities of running a successful business. I am also aware of environmental and political issues from my service as chair of the Political Committee and as a member of the Board of Directors of our local Sierra Club, Ventana Chapter. I currently serve on the Sierra Club's State of California Political Committee and recognize that our local water issues are a microcosm of statewide issues.

I need your help. Grass-roots campaigns run on endorsements, volunteers and money for printing and mailings. Can I count on you? I'll be doing my part with my own limited money and by walking precincts. You can do yours by lending me your name and giving me your vote and whatever contribution feels comfortable.

Questions? Contact me at 626-3550 or at lance_water_board@yahoo.com.