Support Measure U for equitable rates
We can all make a difference working together by voting “Yes” on Measure U for equitable rates in the San Lorenzo Valley Water District. Adopting the Measure U ordinance means the district can rebalance the rate structure and support water conservation by limiting sharply rising fixed charges while spreading the increase fairly across all water users.
SLV water customers have been duped by the same political machine that runs our district without any accountability nor concern for average earners and fixed income families who are now more vulnerable than ever while conserving and using the least amount of water.
We are being forced to pay among the highest water rates in Santa Cruz County’s history. It’s unbelievable that over 8,000 households blindly and gullibly endure continued excessive rate hikes and it’s happening again with increases exceeding 36% over the next five years—after having to absorb the previous 67%, five-year rate increase just six years ago.
These hikes are due to spending mismanagement and continued cost overruns. Political pressure by the County and regional water advocates to merge with a neighboring district and smaller water utilities without assistance brings further costs. Committing to too many large expensive projects all at once, with resulting delays, has doubled costs of infrastructure projects.
How our district collects and spends our money needs better management. Voting yes for innovative Measure U will finally end boards hatching new schemes for raising and adding multiple fixed charges that put our rate structure out of balance.
This November ballot puts a valuable tool at your fingertips. Vote “Yes” on Measure U for fair, equitable rates. Those who can afford to use more water pay more, while those who conserve can have affordable water. Read more about this and how you can help your neighbors at slvh2o.org.
MD Lee
Ben Lomond
Vote yes on Measure O
As a homeowner in Scotts Valley since 2003 with no children attending our unified school district, my perspective regarding Measure O may be of interest to voters who may be as yet undecided.
The American public education system has been a marvel of innovation, cooperation and success since the 19th century. In our time of high-tech innovation and international competition, education is more important than ever. Infrastructure repair is critical to the success of our schools’ mission.
The effects of our recent pandemic have resulted in an education gap, which requires consistent funding, dedicated community support and expert local guidance for amelioration. It’s up to us to do everything we can to prepare our children for their roles as leaders, caretakers and responsible citizens. And if not us, then who?
Keep our children reading and learning in the classroom environment they deserve. This is our time. Step up. Vote yes on Measure O.
Jeff Gallagher
Scotts Valley
Espinola is a proven advocate for our children
We’re writing to express our wholehearted support for Stephanie Espinola for Scotts Valley School Board. Stephanie has lived in our community for over 50 years. She was educated in our local schools. She has worked in our local schools. She has dedicated an incredible 30 years of volunteer service to our local schools, our children and our community.
This remarkable commitment is a testament to her unwavering passion for public education and the betterment of all our children. For Stephanie, children always come first. Stephanie has not only contributed countless hours to our children and our community, but she has also inspired our students, parents and educators.
Her leadership on Anti-Bullying programs, fundraising initiatives for our schools and Parent Teacher Associations at our schools, has significantly enriched our students, bettered our community and fostered a sense of unity within our community. This is the reason why the Teachers of Scotts Valley endorsed Stephanie Espinola for the Scotts Valley School Board.
As you consider the future direction of our school board, and the unique set of challenges it faces, it is crucial to elect someone who has the leadership qualities, real hands-on school experience and broad community involvement who can make a difference for all our children. Stephanie’s legacy of volunteer service to our community exemplifies all those qualities.
We ask you to join us in voting for Stephanie Espinola for Scotts Valley School Board to make a difference for all our children.
Trevor and Megan Laws
Scotts Valley
Bradford is the best choice for supervisor
I believe we have two solid candidates running for Fifth District supervisor, and I’ve appreciated the civil way they’ve both run their campaigns. After digging into the specifics, however, I’ve placed my support with Christopher Bradford.
He has lived and understands the hardships of those who lost homes in the 2020 fire and I believe will push to make the recovery and building process more logical and efficient. He cares about the issues related to home insurance, safety and our infrastructure.
I’m also happy to know he supports the SC County Rail and Trail. These two quotes speak highly of where his loyalties are: “I plan to support funding [for this] where it makes sense within the broader scope of the community’s needs” and “The people have made it very clear what they want; we should listen to them.”
Kanda Whaley
Felton
Don’t be fooled by Bradford’s outsider narrative
As Election Day approaches, it’s important for the residents of the Fifth District to have a clear understanding of the candidates for county supervisor.
Christopher Bradford has positioned himself as an “outsider,” claiming he isn’t relying on the political establishment to get elected. However, this narrative is misleading. Bradford actively sought the endorsement of established political entities, but they chose Monica Martinez instead. These endorsements are not handed out lightly. Each major organization holds forums or an application process where candidates present their vision and answer questions, followed by a vote of the members.
Both Monica Martinez and Christopher Bradford attended the forum for SEIU 521, and after considering both candidates, the members endorsed Monica. They attended the Monterey Bay Central Labor Council forum, and again, Monica received the endorsement. The same happened with the Democratic Central Committee and the North County Democratic Club—after hearing from both candidates, Monica was chosen.
Bradford also sought endorsements from other respected groups, including the Monterey/Santa Cruz Building and Construction Trades Council, Santa Cruz YIMBY, Scotts Valley Diversity Equity Inclusion and Allyship Community Group, and numerous elected officials. Each time, the response was the same: they endorsed Monica Martinez.
Despite seeking the endorsement of Democrats, when those organizations didn’t support him, Bradford found a new home—accepting the Republican endorsement. So much for being an “outsider.” It’s clear he’s not above seeking political support wherever he can get it.
Bradford isn’t shirking the political establishment—he simply doesn’t have the credentials or backing to earn broad-based support. The truth is, across the board, community leaders and organizations have weighed their options and chosen to endorse Monica because of her extensive experience, deep relationships with local and state leaders, and readiness to take on the complex challenges our community faces.
Don’t be fooled by Bradford’s narrative. The endorsements speak for themselves. Monica Martinez is the clear choice for Fifth District supervisor. Support Monica for her experience, leadership and commitment to delivering results for all of us.
Kara Kasteen
Ben Lomond
