A Supervisor Who Unites

On November 8, Santa Barbara County voters will have the opportunity to vote for the candidates who will lead our nation, state, and county. It is amazing to see what passes for qualifications in the race for President of the United States. Although the presidential race attracts our attention, the choice for county supervisor, who will also serve for four years, is very important.

Fortunately a very well qualified candidate is running for county supervisor — Joan Hartmann. As a former county planning commissioner who has known Joan for many years, and seen her in action as the chair of the commission, I know she has the skills, experience, and judgment to make an excellent supervisor. She listens to all sides and supports well-informed practical solutions to complex problems.

Joan has many years of public policy and budgetary experience, and she has worked to improve the lives of citizen at many different levels of government. She understands the importance of coordinating county efforts with the resources and constraints of state and federal agencies to achieve important goals. She has been a strong advocate for government working creatively with the private and nonprofit sectors.

Joan recognizes the need for a healthy economy supported by necessary infrastructure and the importance of sustainable agriculture for the future of our county. She understands the issues that concern residents and business owners.

Joan believes that local citizens should be empowered to make important decisions that affect their quality of life. She was an early supporter of the Buellton Urban Growth Boundary initiative that requires a vote of the people for significant expansion of the city’s boundaries.

Third District residents may vote for different presidential candidates onNovember 8th, but Joan Hartmann will unquestionably be a county supervisor who represents all of us.