Candidate Statement
I am running for District 2 Supervisor to provide balanced, effective leadership when we need it most.
Yolo County has a rich agricultural heritage, wonderful open space and wilderness, vibrant distinct communities, a world-class university and creative people.
Today, Yolo County faces unparalleled challenges in providing basic services. Our roads are in disrepair and law enforcement is stretched to the limits. Our safety net is failing our seniors, low-income families, and the most vulnerable among us. Unemployment rose to an alarming 14.8% this year. Outside county interests are threatening our water future and the stability of our agriculture industry. We have work to do together.
My priorities as County Supervisor will be to:
- Create jobs through economic development based on our county’s natural strengths.
- Leverage UC Davis talents for high-tech, bio-tech, and green jobs.
- Build on Yolo County’s reputation as a destination for agricultural tourism, winemaking and locally grown foods, and special events.
- Support and strengthen local agricultural production, processing and distribution.
- Protect Yolo County water and ensure flood protection.
- Strengthen partnerships with other public agencies, businesses and residents.
- Advocate for state-wide reforms that support healthy communities and vital services.
- Rebuild the safety net for seniors and vulnerable residents through efficient operations and stable funding.
- Launch a Yolo Volunteer Corps to engage our residents.
- Support open space, agriculture and sustainable communities through the County General Plan.
Over 35 years in public service, I have built a strong record of collaborative, effective leadership and management. My public service includes:
- Davis City Council, 2004-10. Mayor Pro Tem, 2008-10.
- Sacramento Area Council of Governments Director, 2008-10.
- Davis School Board, 1995 - 2003
- League of California Cities, multiple leadership roles, 2004 - 2010.
- Co-Founder, Saving California Communities, 2009-10.
- Fiscal analyst, non-partisan California Legislative Analyst Office, 1979-84;
- Director, $500 million in state capital outlay projects; statewide juvenile delinquency prevention and crime victim services programs; health care and education programs for incarcerated youth; strategic planning, facilities planning and administrative services for a department with 5000 employees and an annual budget of $400 million, 1984-2003.
- Master in Public Policy, LBJ School of Public Affairs, 1979.
- Local government positions in Massachusetts and Wyoming, 1975 - 78
Yolo County is a special place. We need balanced, civil and effective leadership to keep it that way. I respectfully ask for your vote on June 8. www.donsaylor.org