E L E C T I O N 2 0 0 7 • TUESDAY, N O V E M B E R 6

PUT COMMUNITY FIRST!

is a Coastside Political Action Committee that supports candidates who believe that Coastsiders’ quality of life can be enhanced by continuous improvements to necessary infrastructure, environmental stewardship, development of our local economy, and transparent, responsive government.

PUT COMMUNITY FIRST! is proud to support the following candidates in the November 6 election:

COASTSIDE COUNTY WATER DISTRICT:
Experienced incumbents with an excellent track record

Ken Coverdell
Bob Feldman
Jim Larimer

HALF MOON BAY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT:
For a balanced board that will provide safe and efficient Emergency Services

Jerry Donovan (Incumbent)
Gregg Hosfeldt
Doug Mackintosh

POINT MONTARA FIRE DISTRICT:
Experienced, dedicated firefighter & long-time resident

Christopher Cilia

MONTARA WATER & SANITARY DISTRICT:
Will bring business experience and new ideas to a mismanaged board

Richard Bulan

MIDCOAST COMMUNITY COUNCIL:
Will revitalize this board

Neil Merrilees

Paid for by Put Community First!, PAC # 1286154



List of Candidates

Quick Links

Put Community First’s General Questions for 2007

Candidates for Their Written Responses

CHRISTOPHER CILIA

How long have you lived on the Coastside?

My wife, Tu-Anh and my sons Jared and Kyle moved to the coast 12 years ago, in 1995.  Tu-Anh and I were looking for a community to raise our family in.  We looked at homes in communities in Oregon, and Northern and Southern California. We narrowed our search down to the coast side between Pescadero and Montara, and we found a house in Montara that needed a lot of work that we could make our home.  My third son, Corey, was born in 1996.  My family and I view the coast side as a tight-knit community that has exceptional beauty with its location and geography.  We feel very fortunate to be part of this community.

In your background and experience, what has prepared you to serve on the Board for which you are a candidate?

I have a passion for the fire service.  Over the last 25 years, I have been employed in the fire service, first as a member of the San Bruno Fire Department for 2-1/2 years and then as a member of the City of San Mateo Fire Department for the last 23 years.  I am currently a Fire Captain/Paramedic.  I also act as Battalion Chief when needed.  I have successfully been incident command on many fire and emergency scenes.  I have sat on the Department’s Participative Management Committee, the Safety Committee, the Apparatus and Equipment Committee, the Fire Station Remodel Committee, the Physical Fitness Committee,  and the Strategic Planning Committee.  I am Chief Financial Officer of the San Mateo Firefighters Widows and Orphans Mutual Aid Fund, I am coordinator of the Department’s Smoke Detector Program, and I led and was instrumental in the purchase of the Department’s thermal imaging cameras. Throughout my career, I have been seeking more and more responsibility and have also prepared myself through formal education.  I have Bachelors and Masters Degrees in physical education from San Francisco State University.  I have an Associate of Science Degree in Fire Science from the College of San Mateo.  I am a California State Certified Paramedic (license #P16034).  I also am a California State Certified Fire Officer and a State Certified Chief Officer. My experience and education have given me a unique knowledge, understanding and appreciation for fire service management and operations.  I hope to bring my passion for the fire service to the Point Montara Fire District.

What are your most important issues in this campaign and why?

The most important issue in this campaign is for the Point Montara Fire District and the coast side community to retain local control of their fire and rescue services.  The residents of Montara and Moss Beach elect their Fire Board locally and they want their department managed and staffed locally.  The Point Montara and Half Moon Bay Firefighters are our community partners.   As a municipal Firefighter for the City of San Mateo for 23 years, I know the ins-and-outs of its fire and rescue problem.  I have an excellent understanding of its geography, target hazards, and fire problems.  I know many of the medical problems of the people who I serve.  I know the construction and layout of many buildings as well as the fire protection systems in these buildings. The current Point Montara and Half Moon Bay Firefighters are like me.  They know the ins-and-outs of the coast side’s fire and rescue problem because they are community partners. 

Contracting out fire service to the State would nullify an advantage that can be gained only through experience.  The State Firefighters are often transferred to different areas, and I do not see the coast side’s fire service ever regaining the advantage of experience. 

Personally, I do not believe that contracting to the State will save our community money. The fire service is extremely infrastructure intensive.  Our Fire Department has personnel, fire stations, fire apparatus and equipment, safety gear, a Fire Prevention Bureau, fire administration, fire operations, EMS, and training. Once we have given all of these responsibilities to another entity, we will no longer have control of our own fire department.   The fire boards are naïve if they think that they can direct the State Fire’s huge bureaucracy with much success.  We want the Fire District to be responsive to the community’s needs and fire and rescue problems.  We will prove the old axiom once again. You get what you pay for.

If elected, what goals would you set for this Board for the next five years?  10 years?

My first goal would be to keep Fire Department management local.  I would not approve of contracting out fire services to anyone.  Contracting out services is the wholesale abdication of the Fire Board’s responsibility which is to manage the Fire Department locally. 

My next goal is to remove management and labor relations from the cycle of one-upmanship that has been fought out in Fire Board Meetings, in the news media, and in the courts for at least the last 12 years.   I see the situation getting worse before it gets better, unless management makes a sincere effort to improve relations.  In any relationship between management and labor, management always has an advantage.  Management can unilaterally impose its policies on its labor force.  Firefighters are prohibited by State law from striking and our Firefighters are too professional and too committed to serving the community to impose a work slow down.  Because of this political landscape, the Fire Board and Management have a higher moral responsibility to care for its Firefighters and to make peace. 

I see the consolidation of fire services within San Mateo County as an obligation of all Fire Departments to the people they serve.  How many fiscal emergencies do we need before we learn our lesson?  After Proposition 13 and the last two economic downturns, the County Fire Departments were ripe for consolidation. Each time, Fire Departments and Fire Districts cut back programs, services and personnel, hoping to stave off the crisis because there was no political will to make real progress.   We talked insincerely about consolidation and now we are just waiting for the next inevitable fiscal crisis.  The County Fire Service has redundant infrastructure throughout.  The Labor Union, Local 2400, has estimated that a consolidated fire department could be managed with twenty-five percent less funding than it currently costs.   There would be fewer managers, fewer fire stations, less personnel, and economy of scale when purchasing apparatus and equipment.  Administration, prevention, operations, office of emergency services, and training divisions could all be consolidated.  The JPA was a good first step in this process but it has been ten years since real progress was made.

How would you go about accomplishing these goals?

I would maintain local control of the Fire District by voting against any contracting of services.  Also, since the Fire Board represents the citizens, I would vote to let the issue of local control go to the vote of the electorate. Over 2000 registered voters signed the petition for the referendum to determine how the Fire Districts should be managed.  The current Fire Boards have blocked the referendum in court based on technicalities.  I view this referendum as a mandate from the voters to decide for themselves the future of their fire and rescue services and I support the referendum.

I would improve Management/Labor relations by opening a sincere dialogue between Management and Labor.  I would seek to create an atmosphere of trust through this dialogue and to initiate a participative management body within the district.  Better decisions are made with greater input from all levels.

To accomplish or at least proceed with consolidation, I must be an agent for change.  I will use my position as a Point Montara Fire Board Member to lobby Fire Chiefs, City Managers, City Councils, and the County Board of Supervisors to achieve this important goal.  I don’t expect it to happen overnight, but I would like to create momentum towards this goal and I would be extremely gratified to see consolidation occur.

Why do you think you should be selected over other candidates?

I think that I should be selected over the other candidate(s) based on my knowledge, understanding and appreciation of, my commitment to, and my passion and vision for the fire service and the Point Montara Fire District and the Half Moon Bay Fire District in particular.  The Fire District’s product is service, and my number one priority is for us to be an all hazards fire department with superior service.  My second priority is fiscal responsibility.

Why are you seeking the endorsement of Put Community First?

I am seeking the endorsement of Put Community First because I hope and believe that we have the same goals.  My  goal as a member of the Point Montara Fire Board, as an individual, as a member of the community and as a Fire Captain and a Paramedic is to create and support the best possible fire and rescue services on the coast side.

Put Community First’s General Questions for 2007

Candidates for Their Written Responses

BOB FELDMAN

Candidate for Coastside County Water District (Incumbent)

I grew up on East Coast and obtained a BS in Civil Engineering from CCNY and a MS in Civil Engineering Systems from MIT. I spent the early part of my career on the eastern Seaboard, and the last 30 years in Saratoga, CA.

I have a broad career in Engineering, and have been an Information Technology Executive in Engineering, Information Services, Manufacturing and Healthcare Organizations. My most recent experience was with Santa Clara County as CIO of Santa Clara Valley Health and Hospital System. I am presently retired and was recently appointed to the CCWD Board of

Directors on August 16, 2006.  As a recent transplant, by choice, to the Coastside with my wife Joyce, I am committed to serving the community as a member of the CCWD Board of Directors. I believe the Coastside is a special place and I want to help enhance that.

I intend to perform my role with integrity and to exercise good judgment and common sense in meeting the needs of the residents of the Coastside. I bring a fresh and impartial viewpoint to the table. In addition to handling the key programs underway in an expeditious manner, my focus will be to add value to the communication process between CCWD and the community, which will result in improved timeliness and availability of information about CCWD and its programs.

Put Community First’s General Questions for 2007

Candidates for Their Written Responses

DOUG MACKINTOSH

Candidate for Half Moon Bay Fire Protection District

How long have you lived on the Coastside?

Since 1980 (27 years)

In your background and experience, what has prepared you to serve on the Board for which you are a candidate?

• President of county Paramedic JPA
• 16 years as Fire Board member (including most of that time as member of finance committee) which brings not only an understanding for HMBFPD but of the difference between Special - - - Districts and City/County government and finance
• Member of negotiating committee for county wide JPA for paramedic service on fire engines
• Number of years on the negotiating team for labor negotiations with the firefighters
• Member building committee for Main Street fire station
• 27 years running a business on the Coast
• MA in Secondary Schools Administration
• 2 years as Ambulance Tech (pre paramedic days)
• 6 years as Emergency Rooms, Neurosurgical ICU as an aide (college job)

What are your most important issues in this campaign and why?

Is there value in a high percentage of workers living on the coast or should we look to the outside for the lowest price for services?

I believe there is tremendous value in men and women who live and work in a community a dedication which goes far beyond the hours worked and the pay received.  Who drives our red trucks and responds in our times of greatest crisis goes far beyond a body in a uniform, and the decision to discard that goes far beyond short term economics.

I believe that a Board is elected by the voters to represent the voters and when the Board is petitioned by the voters for a say in what happens it is the Board’s responsibility to listen whether or not they are required to by law.  I believe it is the Board’s responsibility to maintain public accessible records of its actions and not have members of the public repeatedly remind them that written minutes are a requirement of good government.  I believe it is the Board’s responsibility to listen respectfully and RESPOND to questions raised by the public at meetings. 

If elected, what goals would you set for this Board for the next five years?  10 years?

• Reestablish the vision of community service above and beyond the job and the community’s perception of the fire service as a leader in Coastside government
• Develop a cadet program for high school students who are interested in serving their community.
• Reestablish a viable water rescue program
• Improve medical response in terms and training and available resources
• Reestablish necessary reserve accounts with realistic amounts
• Resegregate special funds (like weed abatement) so there is easily monitorable public accountability for their expenditure
• Improve the perception of the fire prevention bureau and the inspection activities of the firefighters by builders and the business community as a partnership in safety not as a club over their heads
• Closely work with the Coastside planning bodies (city & county) to understand their development plans so the fire service can economically meet the community’s needs

How would you go about accomplishing these goals?

• A number of these items were established during my previous years on the board and just require board action and careful monitoring.
• Others require carefully, respectful listening and dialog with the community, firefighters and the existing volunteer program.
• The most important requirement is to establish an atmosphere of mutual respect and responsibility.  The acceptance of personal responsibility for the success or failure is paramount and it has to start at the Board level.
• Emphasize team building over power politics both within the Board and the department as a whole (this will probably require some outside expertise)
• Insist that Board discussions take place in the public forum and that “special” meetings are a rarity and full open disclosure the norm.

Why do you think you should be selected over other candidates?

I feel I bring experience and history that is currently lacking on the Board and administration.  I have seen first-hand a department grow and what happens when it loses sight of its purpose. I have seen what happens when power takes precedence over service and having seen it have an improved capability of avoiding its reoccurrence.

Why are you seeking the endorsement of Put Community First?

My community and those who care about it are important to me.  I believe that Put Community First represents an important segment of our community and I seek the support of my community.  While some may assign a political mindset to your endorsement I believe that the fire service should transcend politics and be a common ground that all can endorse.  I feel that in many ways the Fire Service is looked on as the pinnacle of service and represents the heart of a community.

Put Community First’s General Questions for 2007

Candidates for Their Written Responses

GREGG HOSFELDT

Candidate for Half Moon Bay Fire Protection District

How long have you lived on the Coastside?

I moved to Half Moon Bay in 1989 and have been a resident of San Mateo County since 1987.

In your background and experience, what has prepared you to serve on the Board for which you are a candidate?

I believe a combination of fire experience, formal education and professional experience has given me a strong background for a position on the Board of Directors.  

I have been a member of the Half Moon Bay Volunteer Fire Department since 1989, serving as a captain since 2001, with certifications as a Medical First Responder and Hazardous Materials First Responder. 

My education includes a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems from Cal Poly Pomona and a Masters of Business Administration with a major in Finance from the University of Santa Clara. 

Supplementing my fire service experience and education is my professional experience as an Assistant Public Works Director.  I am currently responsible

for managing water, sewer and storm water system operation and maintenance programs, and have extensive experience managing budgets and capital projects

for a $30 million public works operation.  I have also managed operations and maintenance of vehicle, facilities and solid waste programs. 

My professional certifications are:

California Water Treatment Operator (Grade 2)

California Water Distribution Operator (Grade 2)

Wastewater Collection System Maintenance (Grade 1)

What are your most important issues in this campaign and why?

As a long-term volunteer firefighter I have seen the impact of organizational problems on the employees and the public’s perception of the department.  As a result of the current issues, my main concerns are the District’s financial stability, work environment and staffing, and are the basis for my major goals.

1. Re-establish and maintain a productive and appealing work environment to attract and retain new and experienced firefighters and administrators.  Many of the firefighters who left the department in recent years were new to the firefighting profession, including several people from the Coastside. These new firefighters attended area fire academies (and in many cases served the community as members of the volunteer fire department), became paramedics and evolved into experienced professionals, only to leave the Coastside for other local departments.  As a board member I will work to create an environment to retain the newest employees to ensure there are experienced firefighters as senior employees retire.
2. Provide cost-effective service while ensuring competitive salaries and benefits. District revenues exceeded expenses in FY 2006/07, and it is critical for the Board to balance potential savings generated by contracting services with the impacts on District employees.
3. Begin filling vacant firefighter jobs.  There are numerous firefighter and captain positions currently vacant, necessitating large amounts of overtime.  While many of these positions have been vacant for an extended period of time, the District has not hired firefighters since early 2006. Understaffing the District has required the employees to work substantial overtime, further impacting staff morale.

If elected, what goals would you set for this Board for the next five years? 10 years?

•          Re-establish communications between firefighters, administrators and the District Board. I believe many of the District's problems are due to a lack of dialog within the organization.

•          Provide a high level of financial management and oversight.

•          Ensure managers provide strong, effective, consistent and fair leadership.

•          Improve the public's perception of District operations, communication and ethics.

•          Improve public accessibility to information regarding District operations by ensuring staff reports, meeting minutes, budgets and financial reports are posted on the District's web site.

•          Provide opportunities for local individuals seeking a career in public safety to live and work on the Coastside. The community is strengthened by having services provided by people living nearby, especially in times of large-scale emergencies.

•          Maintain a strong, well-trained and active volunteer fire department. Volunteers have been dedicated to serving the community since the late 1800s and are a critical resource for a District geographically removed from larger cities.

How would you go about accomplishing these goals?

The new Board will need to actively monitor progress on the new goals by:

·         Establishing a management team aligned with and supportive of the Board’s priorities.

·         Working with District management and staff to ensure positive change.

·         Using consultants as needed to review the District’s financial and legal issues, and to begin the process of rebuilding an effective team.

Why do you think you should be selected over other candidates?

I believe that I will bring to the Board a strong combination of fire service experience and a background in finance and public works operations.  Additionally, as an Assistant Public Works Director I work extensively and cooperatively with represented employees, and have an appreciation and understanding of fire service professionals.  My sole motivation is to help return the District to a healthy operation, and as an active member of the department I will be able to see first-hand the impact of the changes.

Why are you seeking the endorsement of Put Community First? 

I am running for election to the Half Moon Bay Fire Protection District Board of Directors with the goal of returning the District to a healthy and productive operation. I believe the District can provide the highest level of service by maintaining a motivated and experienced local workforce, including managers, firefighters and volunteers, that is available to serve the isolated Coastside community during local and wide-scale emergencies.

Because Put Community First supports continuous improvement of local infrastructure, I believe my mission to rebuild a strong, community-based fire district meets the goals of your group.  I am hopeful that Put Community First will support my objectives and help facilitate the movement to ensure a cohesive public safety operation.

GREGG HOSFELDT

CANDIDATE FOR HALF MOON BAY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT

CAMPAIGN STATEMENT

Endorsed by:

Half Moon Bay Professional Firefighters

Put Community First (a Half Moon Bay political action committee)

Half Moon Bay Review (October 10, 2007 issue)

San Mateo County Labor Council

San Mateo County Firefighters Local 2400

I'll work to rebuild a strong, well-managed fire district that provides exceptional services and attracts and retains new and experienced firefighters and administrators.  My goals are to:        

~    Provide a full range of fire, medical and rescue services for the Coastside

~    Provide cost-effective services while ensuring competitive salaries

~    Re-establish communications between firefighters, administrators and directors

~    Develop an effective, consistent and fair management team

~    Improve the public's perception of District communication and ethics

~    Provide exceptional financial management and oversight

~    Provide opportunities for local individuals seeking a career in public safety

~    Post District reports and financial statements on the web site

~    Maintain a strong, well-trained and active volunteer fire department. 

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

18 years as a HMB Volunteer Firefighter  -  6 years as Captain

Medical First Responder / Hazardous Materials First Responder

Masters of Business Administration - major in Finance

University of Santa Clara

Assistant Public Works Director.   Experience managing:

~    A staff of 65 employees

~    A $30,000,000+ public works budget

~    Water, sewer and storm water systems

~    Vehicle and building maintenance programs

Professional certifications in water treatment, water distribution and wastewater collection.

Put Community First’s General Questions for 2007

Candidates for Their Written Responses

JERRY DONOVAN

Candidate for Half Moon Bay Fire Protection District

How long have you lived on the Coastside?  

It will be 31 years this December.

In your background and experience, what has prepared you to serve on the Board for which you are a candidate?

 I served two full terms on the HMB City Council 1993-2000, and I’m finishing my first term on the HMBFPD.

What are your most important issues in this campaign and why?

We must complete the consolidation of the two Fire Districts into one district for the entire Coastside.  And complete the contracting of fire services with CalFire.  Contracting will save the taxpayers close to a million dollars a year, so the Board can set aside reserves for scheduled fire truck purchases, set aside funds for Station 41 and Station 44 rebuilds.  Contracting will bring in new management, and provide a full service fire district. 

If elected, what goals would you set for this Board for the next five years?  10 years?  

As mentioned above, set the schedule for the replacement of the current rolling stock of fire vehicles, and plan the major rebuilds of the two older stations. If the financial picture is favorable or we can secure a grant, I love to see a training tower be built on our vacant lot at Station 40.

How would you go about accomplishing these goals? 

Continue to work together as a Board with the same vision of meeting the needs and expectations of the Coastside residents. Monitor the effectiveness of the CalFire contract, request changes in the services and staffing as the needs reflect any areas of service, education, inspection, or prevention that might be short of our expectations.

Why do you think you should be selected over other candidates?

I work for the taxpayers, the citizens on the Coast pay a lot taxes, fees, and assessments already, and I intend to work very hard to prevent any raises in the fire assessments.

Why are you seeking the endorsement of Put Community First?

I feel that I share most of the views the PCF group embraces for improving the infrastructure and services here on the Coast.  People with common sense, who can receive information from the public and evaluate all the information they compile, usually make the good decisions.  I feel I have done that in my public service.  I am facing a very tough battle from a labor union that does not want the CalFire contracting to occur.  The Union has stated they will put lots of money to defeating Bert Silva and myself.  I need your organization to help me get my message out, as to what the contract provides, and why we needed to enter into the contract. If I fail, and the labor candidates take a majority of the Board over, all the progress made the last four years will be reversed.

JERRY DONOVAN

Campaign Statement

In four years I have lead the Fire Board to consolidation of two districts that were locked in a bitter battle for years - something that was not even considered by previous Boards.  With the completed consolidation Coastsiders have a single Board of Directors overseeing the Districts operations. 

I also pressed for a contract with Cal-Fire to provide full fire services in the new District.  This maintains local control of the services contracted for, in the agreement.  This process is being fiercely opposed by candidates supported by a Union that apparently wants no controls whatsoever.  That Union has been funding many tens of thousands of dollars to unseat me.  I want to be reelected to keep your fire assessments at their current rates, or lower, for a long time to come.

Thank you for your vote.

Put Community First’s General Questions for 2007

Candidates for Their Written Responses

JIM LARIMER

Candidate for Coastside County Water District (Incumbent)

How long have you lived on the Coastside?

Twenty years this year. I moved here from Philadelphia in 1987 where I had been a university professor to work at the NASA Ames Research Center as a Senior Scientist in the area of information display.

List your background and experience; what has prepared you to serve on the Board for which you are a candidate?

I became involved in local issues working to pass Measure K, the building bond originally for a new middle school. Ken Jones, who served 12 years on the school board, convinced me to run for the water board. I am a scientist/engineer and understand the need for adequate water infrastructure. CCWD must be run as a business, but a business that does not have the option to fail. CCWD must always provide a safe and adequate water supply to service community needs.

What are your most important issues in this campaign and why?

After six years of recovery from attempts to regulate growth by under sizing and not repairing our water infrastructure the district is now back on a sound physical foundation. The next major issue facing the district is to plan for serving the community over the next 50 years. Our current water supply is only adequate to service the community for the next 15 to 20 years; we will need more capacity to service homes currently on wells, to accommodate future change in land use, and to provide adequate reserves for local businesses and industry. Planning for that expansion must occur now. The consequences otherwise will be dire, with home on failed wells abandoned, and no extra capacity to service the community during a drought year of in the event of a serious fire.

If elected, what goals would you set for this Board for the next five years?  10 years?

Planning for the future is the most important issue facing the water district today. These plans should investigate the potential of recycled water as a renewable resource. This might help contain out year cost increases, but it needs to be thoroughly researched before committing to this or any future plan for water. Recycling is good for the environment and with a customer for the recycled water could pay for itself.

How would you go about accomplishing these goals?

Planning based upon a thorough analysis of costs and alternatives.

Why do you think you should be selected over other candidates?

All three incumbents favor fiscally sound management and rational planning for the future. All three of us should be reelected; we have a proven record of accomplishments.

Why are you seeking the endorsement of Put Community First?

PCF is an organization committed to community excellence and improvement. I agree with those goals and desire to be associated with PCF for those reasons.

JIM LARIMER

Campaign Statement

Occupation: Engineer/Scientist/Incumbent

Education and Qualifications:

I am a full time consulting engineer in the electronics industry and a recently retired NASA scientist/engineer. Safe reliable water at the lowest possible price requires continuing the modernization of our aging infrastructure. Despite double-digit raw water rate increases imposed upon us by SFPUC, we have contained our water rate increases this year to less than 5%, a below average Bay Area rate increase.

Our local infrastructure can help to mitigate the excessive cost increases generated by the modernization of the Hetch Hetchy regional water system. Hetch Hetchy supplies over two thirds of our water, so keeping prices in check will require sound leadership. I am committed to meeting all the increasing State and Federal rules for water pressure and quality needed to achieve rigorous health and fire safety standards. I will work to accomplish these goals and to promote water conservation while maintaining low and reasonable water prices.

I am a 20 year resident of the Coastside, a former University Professor, and a former Program Director at the National Science Foundation. I live in Half Moon Bay with my wife and two daughters.

WHY I AM RUNNING FOR A THIRD TERM

I first ran for office in 2001 after the water district had been taken over in 1999 by three board members who appeared to believe that stultifying infrastructure would preserve our community’s unique life style without endangering it. They were wrong. After two years of controlling the district they had managed to sideline desperately needed infrastructural renewal that put the community at risk of catastrophic events such as inadequate water pressure to put out fires, road washouts when aging primary pipelines fail, and the potential for long term water outages.

Six years later the necessary renewal of infrastructure is back on schedule. The El Granada pipeline will be totally renewed by next summer; we have already replaced parts of it. We have already replaced the primary feed from the Nunnes Water Treatment plant, Carter Hill West, and ended 30 years of inadequate water pressure at HMBHS that posed an unacceptable fire risk there. We have replaced the Carter Hill East pipeline that had the potential to wash out HWY 92, all the water mains under the Main and 92 road improvements have been replaced ahead of schedule, and we have upgraded the technology in both water treatment plants. We created a new bond to pay for future work necessitated by more stringent requirements for water quality. The bond will balance the cost burden for these improvements between current and future users so that both groups share equitably in the costs. Our fiscal policies have put the district in an enviable position with adequate funding for required projects in the future and additionally we have managed to contain water rate increases at one of the lowest levels in the region despite double digit rate increases from SFPUC which supplies 70% of the raw water we process and sell.

I have enjoyed the associations I have made through public service with the many wonderful people in this community who contribute so much to the quality of life here. I hope to serve the community for another 4 years.

Put Community First’s General Questions for 2007

Candidates for Their Written Responses

KEN COVERDELL

Candidate for Coastside County Water District (Incumbent)

How long have you lived on the Coastside?

I have lived here since 1978.

In your background and experience, what has prepared you to serve on the Board for which you are a candidate?

I have served approximately 14 of the last 16 years. .I have an abundance of experience working with a variety of personalities and situations. I am very involved in water use in  landscape management. As a licensed landscape and general contractor as well as a licensed landscape architect in the state of California, I have extensive experience in contracting and contractor management as well as experience in design and construction of hydraulic systems..   Finally, I have a lot of friends and associates on the coast in all walks of life, especially in the nursery and farming industries who rely on our water being available at a reasonable cost.

What are your most important issues in this campaign and why?

I believe that assuring that the El Granada pipeline is completed ASAP to rely on gravity to feed water through our system and allow it to move more freely north to south is my most important issue.. This project has been permitted and under construction since 1985. I believe we also need to begin to address the arduous process of developing local water sources while protecting our access to existing water sources, especially with regard to SFPUC who allow us access to Crystal Springs and Hetch Hetchy water, reputed to be the freshest water in the world. Finally I believe that our best future local water source is re-cycled water and we must do whatever is necessary to distribute and utilize this source.

If elected, what goals would you set for this Board for the next five years?  10 years?

Continue frugal and responsible fiscal budgeting and management, re-build the organizational structure of the District and staffing, while securing more local water, help to complete a regional water management plan, and work to co-operate with our neighbors to the north to secure a more reliable water supply and distribution system.

How would you go about accomplishing these goals?

I would attempt to be more available and try to keep our meetings transparent. I would attempt to schedule as much committee time as necessary committing the required energy to work toward these ends.

Why do you think you should be selected over other candidates?

I do not think I should be selected over them but rather with my two colleagues Jim and Bob I believe I represent a diverse cross-section of coastal citizens and I believe I have the respect and support of a substantial number of my friends, associates and neighbors on the coast.

Why are you seeking the endorsement of Put Community First?

I believe my view of the future of the coast and its water needs is in line with the general direction of the PCF, certainly it is not at odds with what I believe to be PCF’s direction.  I plan to live and enjoy the coast the rest of my life.  My family would like to live and work here God willing.  I want a balanced community where wasteful practices of obstruction are put into check and the community can grow and prosper reasonably while addressing the growing pains. 

Biographical Highlights

• Occupation: Incumbent
• Bachelor of Arts with honors in political science.
• Coursework completed for masters in political science.
• Appointed twice to CCWD (water board).
• One term ran unopposed for CCWD.
• Served twice as president of CCWD.

Active in California Landscape Contractor's Assoc.

Top Priorities if Elected

• Keep CCWD on track to maintain and upgrade infrastructure
• Complete the Crystal Springs Pipeline project started in 1985
• Develop additional local water sources including re-cycled water

Key Endorsements

• Entire CCWD Board of Directors.
• Citizens from all walks of life on the coast. Not special interests
• Local farmers and nursery people.

Position Papers

Support Ken Coverdell for Member of the Board of Directors CCWD

Ken will continue to work fairly, openly and honestly to keep the CCWD delivering the best possible water at the best possible price through the best maintained system.

Please support Ken Coverdell for Water Board

I hope you will support me in my re-election this November 6, 2007. I have worked hard to keep the efficiently managed water district on the same positive course started over fifty years ago. This course is one of protecting the quality of the water delivered as well as the integrity, condition and safety of the delivery system.                                                                                                                 
 

Put Community First’s General Questions for 2007

Candidates for Their Written Responses

NEIL MERRILEES

Candidate for Mid-coast Community Council

22 years ago my wife and I fell in love with, and moved to, the coast.  Our area has unique resources: the beach and lots of protected open space with opportunities for surfing, fishing, sailing, kayaking, hiking and biking.  I realize it will take thoughtful planning to preserve and improve it for future generations.

I am a classroom volunteer at Farallone View Elementary and participate in Surfrider beach cleanups.  I served as Construction Captain during the Moss Beach Park build.  As a member of the Planning & Zoning committee, I helped develop a planning checklist to clarify the application process and minimize appeals. My experience has convinced me that the planning and permit process needs fixing.

The Midcoast Council is in need of a positive and creative direction.  If elected, I would work to:  Balance the interests of property owners and residents, with sensitivity to preserving the natural coastal beauty, develop incentives for smaller structures and affordable housing, work to improve public beach and harbor access, and better recreational opportunities.

I have a degree in Architecture from Berkeley.  I have worked in design and construction for 25 years.  I know that great results come from careful and creative planning.

Put Community First’s General Questions for 2007

Candidates for Their Written Responses

RICHARD BULAN

Candidate for Montara Water & Sanitary District

Montara Water & Sanitary District

How long have you lived on the Coastside?

I was born in San Francisco, raised in the South Bay, and have been a San Francisco resident for the previous 8 years. As a resident of the city, I believed that I was going to spend the rest of my life there. Then 2 years ago we found our dream home in Moss Beach. Our family plans to spend the rest of our lives here.

In your background and experience, what has prepared you to serve on the Board for which you are a candidate?

I work as a mortgage lender, so protecting my investment is something I excel at. My background is finance, which I believe is sorely needed at the Montara Water & Sanitary District (MWSD).  I am a businessman, accustomed to setting and meeting goals, to working toward accomplishing those goals within a budget, and on time.

Thus far I have spent many hours researching the issues at MWSD and I have a preliminary understanding of how things work there. I have collected hundreds of pages of financial documents and have spend hours with financial experts who have backgrounds in water districts. I have also met with the fire marshal and he has gone into great detail with me as to the short comings of MWSD. I have also sent water samples to independent labs in order to know exactly what is in our water. I believe I am very prepared to serve on the MWSD’s board of directors.

What are your most important issues in this campaign and why?

Financial Responsibility, fire safety, and clean water are my main concerns.

Financial responsibility is important to me. Our district has spent millions of dollars over the last four years and has nothing to show for it. We still have the same amount of water supply and capacity as we did before all the expenditures. In addition, we have taken millions in new debts in the form of bonds and loans. Where exactly is the money going?

Fire Safety is also a concern. I sat down with Fire Marshal Clayton Jolley to verify with him water numbers regarding what he needed to put out a fire. I had read news paper articles that stated that it took 1 million gallons of storage water to put out the Cunha fire in Half Moon Bay. I had also found out that MWSD only had 662,000 gallons of storage capacity. Not only did he verify that those numbers were correct, but he also informed me that the 662,000 gallons of capacity are maximum numbers. Our storage tanks are rarely full. If fact, our water capacity is at its lowest first thing in the morning when everyone is getting ready for the day so hope fires strike later in the day. His words to me were “The infrastructure in Montara and Moss Beach is woefully deficient for fire protection.  There is not enough storage, or production to meet California’s minimum fire protection requirements.”

At my house, the water stains my porcelain green. This is due to the acidity level of the water which leaches out the copper. I also know that there are issues with nitrates in the airport well water that can also pose a health hazard. If MWSD has a problem with keeping the books, watching out for the public’s health may not be a priority either.

If elected, what goals would you set for this Board for the next five years?  10 years?

The first priority, if elected, would be to do a full audit of MWSD.  We pay the second highest in California but yet there has been no improvement in water supply or capacity. We all deserve to know what our millions of dollars are being spent on. When MWSD is questioned regarding expenditures, we are presented with a labyrinth of documents none of which equal a complete financial statement. An audit would direct us on how to reduce debt loads or find efficiencies that may be an alternative to raising rates. 

How would you go about accomplishing these goals?

Work closely with George Irving and staff to understand and resolve the problems that have plagued the district without resolution since mid-1970.

Why do you think you should be selected over other candidates?

MWSD is being mismanaged. We have the second highest water rates in the state, we do not have the ability to put out a fire, and what little water sources we have are declining. If you disagree with me and believe that everything is fine, please endorse the incumbents. If you believe there are major problems at MWSD, I have the financial background and the track record to fix it. I am the candidate to identify, analyze and resolve these problems. Simply put, I get things done.

Why are you seeking the endorsement of Put Community First?

PCF is a respected organization with reputation for supporting the rights of citizens and the well-being of the community.  As a family man, and as a businessman who seeks to be successful in the community, having the support of organizations who share my values is important to me.

Who Am I?

Having enough of the city life, our family decided to move to the coast from San Francisco two years ago. My wife and I agreed that the small town feel, pristine environment, scenic views, and open spaces were the ideal place to raise our family.

The first sign that something was wrong with our newly remodel house was that the new porcelain was turning green. I learned that acidity was the culprit and that there is no filter was going to make the water safe to drink. I also found out that the not only was the water quality questionable, but our water district did not have the ability to put out a major fire. In addition, there were people who are forced to pay into the water system, but were not allowed to have water connection, which does not seem fair. Someone has to do something about our community’s situation.

I want to preserve the character and flavor that captivated my family, while ensuring the continued health and vitality of the community. As a finance professional, I believe in financial responsibility. Montara Water and Sanitary District (MWSD) focus should be to provide service to its owners (you and I) at a reasonable rate while meeting state and federal health and fire safety standards. My goal is to hold MWSD accountable to us by focusing MWSD on its responsibilities.

You might ask “Who are you and how can you accomplish this?” I am 37 years old. In the past 14 years I have founded and run two successful businesses. One being an artisan furniture business called Golden Gate Design & Furniture Company, and the other a mortgage lending company named Clock Tower Financial. My furniture company was an artistic outlet and is more of a hobby now. As a mortgage lender, I am very good at protecting my investments and I have the financial background and experience to protect our community’s investments.

What Are the Issues?

I have spent the better part of two months educating myself about this district. I have spoken with water officials, water experts, past water board candidates, fire personnel, county officials, and all of my neighbors.  I have attended multiple meetings in order to find out the status of our water district. I have assembled thousands of pages of information regarding the financials and the plans of MWSD.

Four years ago the incumbents issued a three year plan which promised their priorities as being water, storage, and infrastructure. Since that statement, there have been no additional water sources or storage capacity added to the system. Our infrastructure is deteriorating at such a rapid pace, 19% of our water is unaccounted for.

Due to insufficient pressure and/or capacity, the system does not provide adequate resource or reliability for responding to fire safety disasters; nor does it offer sufficient drought protection. Clayton Jolley, our Fire Marshal, has stated that “The infrastructure in Montara and Moss Beach is woefully deficient for fire protection.  There is not enough storage capacity or production to meet California’s minimum fire protection requirements.”

Currently, MWSD has spent $5.8 million in the past four years on capital improvements. Despite this, there have been no noticeable improvements in service nor have any new water sources been added. One would think that MWSD’s lack of service would translate into lower rates, but on the contrary, we pay among the highest rates in California. Moreover, the past two years have brought us three additional rate increases as high as 47%.

What I Would Do for You

I believe that we need to add NEW people to the Board who have fresh eyes, and are not beholden to the same political philosophies of the past. We need to focus on safety, first and foremost, rather than stalling on infrastructure projects. We need more water, more storage, and better infrastructure now and the future.

I promise to educate you, inform you about the financials, do better long-term financial and debt planning, work towards further efficiencies in operation and make our community a safer place to be.

For more information, visit www.RichardBulan.org    

Background:

• Born in San Francisco

• Lived in Bay Area all my life

• Been with wife for 17 years

• Son is in the Cabrillo Unified District

• Finance Professional

• BA in Finance

• Work as a Mortgage Banker

Memberships Include:

• Mortgage Bankers Association

• Pacifica Chamber of Commerce

• U.S. Green Builders Council 

• National Association of Realtors

• Pacifica Historical Society

• Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)

• Spanish Immersion Parent Association (SIPA)