Letter: McPherson has experience to lead

EDITOR,
Several well-meaning individuals have expressed interest in running for 5th District county supervisor in the June 5 election, but only one, Bruce McPherson, has the respect, experience and contacts at the county, state and federal levels to serve its residents well from day one.
Given the tight financial conditions that face the county and our state, there will be strong competition among governing bodies to obtain and oversee limited financial resources. With McPherson as our supervisor, citizens of the 5th District will have someone who can hit the ground running without needing an introductory learning period. His intricate knowledge of state and federal government systems and direct personal relationships with people who run them will be a tremendous asset for Santa Cruz County.
That’s why I’m supporting our former state senator and California secretary of state. McPherson demonstrated a consistent commitment to the people of Santa Cruz County in elected office between 1993 and 2004. He has continued his leadership here with numerous public service agencies, from Cabrillo College and Second Harvest Food Bank to Land Trust of Santa Cruz County and California Forward.
Bruce McPherson is a dedicated public servant who has the integrity and experience to best serve Santa Cruz County as its 5th District supervisor.
Jack Bassett, retired chief of police, city of Santa Cruz