Candidate for
County Supervisor; Humboldt County; Supervisorial District 4

Dear Friends,

I am running for County Supervisor to ensure a vibrant future for Humboldt County. In the next four years, I plan to accomplish the tasks I've already set in motion, which will ensure the creation of jobs, affordable access for all citizens to quality healthcare, a cap on sprawl and protection of our environment.

All of these elements are contained within the County General Plan Update. This important policy document will outline the county's future for the next 20 years.

I am a candidate with an intimate, working knowledge of the ins and outs of the General Plan. We need to lay a plan of action in place now that will set the stage for the next several generations when growth may far exceed the levels we experience today.

I believe jobs and a healthy environment need not be mutually exclusive. I look forward to initiating and supporting the innovative jobs of the future. Already, the county has secured upward of $5 million to support the creation of new green jobs. Humboldt County has already taken a leadership role in the region by securing federal funds to help homeowners finance energy conservation and solar retrofits. This program alone is projected to create 150 new jobs over the next three years.

A healthy future also means ensuring affordable access for all citizens to quality healthcare -- a basic human right. I have already provided local solutions in this area, such as the Children's Health Initiative, which provides health coverage to 4,000 otherwise uninsured kids. I secured funding to bring telemedicine to St. Joseph Hospital and the Humboldt County Open Door Community Health Clinics. I also helped double dental coverage in our community by securing funds for the Burre Dental Clinic's new expansion.

Our quality of life here on the North Coast depends upon creating economic opportunities and living in balance with our beautiful, natural setting. Humboldt County has vast resources and a unique environment that are statewide and natural treasures. In the next four years, I will continue to fight for the preservation of our agricultural and timberlands for the future of our economy and for generations to come. In a not too distant future, I see forestland owners participating in carbon markets as carbon stores have the potential to be our area's greatest contribution to worldwide climate mitigation, as well as a major source of revenue.

I personally championed the addition of a Water Resources Element in the County General Plan so we can take charge of our fate when it comes to water supply and quality issues. I supported the inclusion of an energy element to address energy needs and climate change. I will also champion the adoption of a countywide Climate Action Plan to help us meet AB 32, the statewide Global Warming Solutions Act. I see short sea shipping as another progressive link to our future. This form of shipping would be a perfect fit for Humboldt Bay, and an easy, inexpensive way for local manufacturers to ship their products beyond our borders. Short sea shipping would promote and maintain our local businesses while creating new jobs. I will invest what it takes to spearhead our local efforts in this pioneering and scale appropriate use of Humboldt Bay.

My experience has given me the knowledge, insight and expertise as to how our local policy decisions can protect and enhance our quality of life, including jobs and healthcare, without raising taxes. The best outcomes result from cooperative efforts between state, federal and local jurisdictions. I have cultivated these personal relationships to ensure Humboldt County receives its fair share.

I am proud to have the endorsements of esteemed colleagues on the local, state and federal level. I am the only candidate who is endorsed by the Humboldt County Democratic Central Committee, the National Sierra Club and the Green Party of Humboldt County. It is also a true honor to have several labor unions on my side, knowing that they represent thousands of working families in our area.

On June 8th, please support my vision for a vibrant and sustainable future for Humboldt County. Thank you.