PD Editorial: Press Democrat recommendations for the Nov. 8 election
Here are our recommendations Tuesday’s election. Polls are open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. Results will be posted at pressdemocrat.com.
SANTA ROSA
City Council, District 2 — Mark Stapp
Mark Stapp is well-versed in Santa Rosa’s economic and housing needs, he’s committed to preserving the Bennett Valley Golf Course and careful stewardship of the Southeast Greenway, and we think he would be a good addition to the City Council.
City Council, District 4 — Terry Sanders
Terry Sanders’ home in Fountaingrove burned in the 2017 fire, giving him a personal connection to a section of District 4 still struggling to rebuild. He has active support in the downtown business community and among first responders.
City Council, District 6 — Jeff Okrepkie
Few first-time candidates have been as well prepared as Jeff Okrepie, founder of Coffey Strong, a volunteer organization that was instrumental to rebuilding after the 2017 fires.
To read The Press Democrat’s editorial, click here.
Measure H: public safety sales tax — Yes
The quarter-cent sales tax generates $10 million annually, with 80% of the money earmarked for police and fire protection and the other 20% dedicated to violence prevention efforts.
To read The Press Democrat’s editorial, click here.
Measure I — City charter, district elections — Yes
Measure I acknowledges that Santa Rosa switched from at-large elections to district elections for the City Council beginning in 2018.
Measure J — City charter, cleanup — Yes
Measure J clarifies some ambiguities and updates city charter language to reflect present practices.
To read The Press Democrat’s editorial, click here.
ROHNERT PARK
City Council, District 1 — Samantha Rodriguez
Samantha Rodriguez has worked diligently since her appointment, winning the support of her colleagues. Retaining her would continue a trend of younger, more diverse representation.
City Council, District 2 — Emily Sanborn
Emily Sanborn came to Rohnert Park for college 22 years ago and stayed. She works at Strauss Family Creamery, is active in a variety of organizations and has broad community support.
City Council, District 5 — Susan Hollingsworth Adams
Susan Hollingsworth Adams says a new shelter and camping law are a humane response, incorporating accountability and putting Rohnert Park ahead of other local cities.
To read The Press Democrat’s editorial, click here.
WINDSOR
Mayor — Rosa Reynoza
An advocate for public outreach, Rosa Reynoza wants the town to provide more information about finances on its website and promises to be available to constituents.
District 1 — Mike Wall
Mike Wall’s strong showing in a special election earlier this — 58% of the vote in a three-way contest — reflects growing support for neighborhood-oriented politics in Windsor.
District 2 — Maureen Merrill
Maureen Merrill, who served on the original Town Council, has remained an active presence in the business community and can help restore civility to the council.
District 4 — Kevin Gonyo
We were impressed by Kevin Gonyo’s volunteer efforts to distribute food and assist adults with disabilities in Windsor.
To read The Press Democrat’s editorial, click here.
SONOMA
City Council — Patricia Farrar-Rivas, Ron Wellander and John Gurney
City Hall is balancing in a precarious place, with no city manager, the police chief set to retire soon and other departures on the horizon. Refilling these linchpin positions will take dedication, creativity and, most importantly, experience — specifically knowledge of City Hall.
To read The Press Democrat’s editorial, click here.
CLOVERDALE
Measure K — End fireworks sales — Yes
Fireworks are fun. But in this era of fierce wildfires and punishing droughts, we can no longer afford to play with fire.
To read The Press Democrat’s editorial, click here.
SONOMA COUNTY
Superintendent of schools — Amie Carter
Carter has a doctorate in organizational leadership change, which aligns with the county superintendent’s role as adviser to district superintendents on academic and financial.
To read The Press Democrat’s editorial, click here.
FEDERAL
U.S. House, District 2 — Jared Huffman
Jared Huffman has worked to broker a compromise to maintain Russian River flows vital to residents of Mendocino and northern Sonoma counties while restoring historic fisheries on the Eel River.
U.S. House, District 4 — Mike Thompson
In an institution defined by seniority, Mike Thompson is a senior member, chairing the revenue subcommittee and working closely with Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
To read The Press Democrat’s editorial, click here.
CALIFORNIA
State Senate, District 2 — Mike McGuire
UPDATED: Please read and follow our commenting policy: