Why I’m Running

Water is the lifeblood of our community, connecting everyone from farmers in the fields to residents in their homes. As climate change and population growth put increasing pressure on this vital resource, I've decided to step up and run for the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District.

In all honesty, the choice to run was in response not to my opponent in Division 5, but to a sense of despair when looking at the state of the political field at large. I don't think it's fair to complain when one is not participating, so I threw my hat into the ring to participate in the one political issue that I think every Californian should be watching: water.

Some are concerned that I am a political opponent intent on disrupting the contingent behind Measure J and the efforts to buy out CalAm. I am not. I support the buyout and believe it is the best and only way to elevate ratepayer interests, mostly based on the sense that shareholder value and ratepayer value very often clash. As water gets scarce, it increases in value, and I would like to see a system designed to deliver that value to customers and the community first and foremost.

This candidacy is an exercise in participation and learning. My intention is to research, listen, and discuss some of the key water issues in the county -- and publish campaign blogs to bring you along with me. If we are lucky, perhaps I can debunk some myths along the way.

I may be a relative newcomer to water regulation, but I have been developing alliances and compromises for the entirety of my career. I am a quick learner and deeply committed to serving our community. I pledge to put in the time and effort necessary to make informed decisions that benefit all residents of the Monterey Peninsula.