Have you noticed the prominent use of the word "reform" in the slogans of my opponent for election for Director of Fair Oaks Water District?

Unfortunately, the word "reform" today is too often used to mask personal agendas that have little to do with making things better for the target of the reform.

My first campaign for a seat on the Fair Oaks Water District Board was a reform campaign that emphasized many actions that needed to be made to the district to bring it into the modern era.  At that time there were virtually no significant policies, procedures or plans for running the district and Board perks were the order of the day.

With the help of another new board member, my efforts at reform over the next several years resulted in the removal of all perks for directors; the establishment of clear, comprehensive policies and procedures that got the district back into a business operating mode; the establishment of the district's first master plan for capital improvements along with a financial plan to insure long-term, dependable, cost-effective service; and improved customer service.

In addition, in the past several years I have been a strong proponent for establishing and/or actively participating with neighboring and regional water entities to enhance our own capabilities and to insure the region's collective ability to respond to droughts and emergencies.  The "new" reformers to date have focused on merging with the recreation and park district, then incorporation and now no rate increases on a year-to-year basis. 

This changing focus by the reformers has demonstrated little interest in the large menu of issues that must be addressed by water districts today to insure timely and knowledgeable solutions to the many regulatory and financial obstacles that confront them daily. What our community water supply system needs is smart, straightforward planning and management not buzzwords and political rhetoric. I'll appreciate your vote on November 7th!