Considering the Candidates
I appreciated the opportunity to hear both candidates for District 5 Supervisor at the candidates' forum held at Kelseyville High School. The process included questions that were provided to candidates beforehand as well as written questions from those who were in the audience, allowing for more spontaneous responses. During the two-hour process, both candidates were given the opportunity to clarify their individual approaches to resolving challenges, acquiring resources, and honoring the boundaries that govern the roles of and interactions between county employees and elected officials. They also had ample opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge about a broad array of Lake County and specific District 5 issues. This process allowed me to consider the knowledge, strengths and abilities of both candidates.
Candidate Daniel Boone Bridges answered many of the questions from the viewpoint of a local, long-term resident, building contractor, property owner and proud family man with involvement in church and his immediate community. His answers often reflected his frustration with the local planning department and concerns about local fire and law enforcement staffing shortages.
When water resources were being discussed, Bridges stated that he was not aware of the critically important Middle Creek Restoration Project. He also incorrectly stated that the Board of Supervisors had declared the Hitch an endangered species. His remarks indicated that an issue on which he is strongly focused is the possibility that the name “Kelseyville” could be changed. Based on increased crowd reaction, it is clear that this is a complex issue that is not able to be resolved by any individual district supervisor. He did not verbally acknowledge that there is a mandated process in place to make that decision and that no one elected official could make that change or stop that change.
A lasting impression is that Bridges has a narrow understanding of District 5 issues, strongly discounts the time required to be an elected official and effective supervisor and has insufficient knowledge about the functions and multiple roles of supervisors within county government.
Incumbent Jessica Pyska answered questions with the viewpoint of someone who loves Lake County, is raising her family here, values the beauty and potential of Lake County and recognizes a myriad of complex challenges and needs among a diverse constituency. Her answers to complex questions were specific, based on factual knowledge of the issue and knowledge of protocol and policy in which a supervisor must perform.
Pyska's answers demonstrated a broad base of knowledge about the many issues facing our residents. She was able to name specific resources and strategies that are successfully being utilized for the benefit of the county.
Pyska's demeanor when listening to responses from her opponent was respectful. Her work ethic has helped to put District 5 and Lake County in a position to acquire important resources and resolve challenges. A lasting impression is that she has a positive, hope filled, and long-term vision for Lake County and has consistently demonstrated that she is capable of success and willing to work more than full time to realize that vision.
—Mary Borjon, Kelseyville