A Word from ‘Mr.’ Hartmann

Many letters have supported Joan Hartmann, candidate for 3rd District Supervisor. As her husband, it’s my turn.

Joan’s life has been marked by hard work, selfless service, and innovation. Professionally, she helped found the Public Policy Institute at Claremont Graduate School and established Oberlin College’s Environmental Studies Program. Editing her law school journal, she introduced computers and added the Ninth Circuit Review. Working for the federal government, Joan created “rulemaking by stakeholders,” which lowered pollution from offshore oil rigs. She also invented a method to protect public health while reducing industry clean-up costs. Joan founded the Wetlands Recovery Project, which raised over $650M to restore Southern California rivers and wetlands.

Locally, when the City Council proposed expanding Buellton six-fold, Joan inspired Buellton’s Urban Growth Boundary Measure, which passed by 70 percent. Now Buellton voters determine its size. Joan has served the last three years as planning commissioner, consistently voting to preserve the character of our beautiful county.

In her personal life, she has been a wonderful mother and wife, won a marathon, ridden endurance races, cared for a bevy of dogs, cats, and horses, and advocated for abused and neglected foster children.

I admit my endorsement is biased, but “if it’s true, it ain’t bragging.” Joan’s 100 percent commitment as supervisor will mean I see her less and fend for myself and the animals more. But knowing the experience and energy she will bring as supervisor, I’m voting for Joan. If you knew her as I do, I believe you would, too.