Ukiah Valley Smart Growth Coalition | Questionnaire for Supervisorial Candidates

Paula Deeter - I believe that the CEO's position should be more closely described as a CAO; in other words, I am more comfortable with the accountability of an officer that is answerable to the public and working staff (more so than what we currently have). I liked what John Ball had initially done by reviewing staff in different departments and combining overlaps in similar offices. I feel that we need to have a strong organizer that listens to all of the supervisors as well as the community.

Kendall Smith - The job of the CEO is to implement the decisions of the Board of Supervisors as determined in publicly noticed meetings. It is not the job of the CEO to preempt BOS decision making by supporting or opposing any general plan amendment, zoning change or proposed project prior to a BOS decision. It is the job of the CEO to direct staff and resources to implement BOS actions.

Estelle Clifton - The CEO plays an extremely important role in county government. Whoever holds that position presides over most aspects of county government and provides the leadership to the department's employees. The CEO must ensure that this leadership follows the will and direction of the board yet does not overstep any legal or ethical boundaries.

John McCowen - The balance of power should rest with the Board of Supervisors. It is the Board's responsibility to set policy for the County and to make sure the CEO implements that policy. It is the CEO's duty to present the Board with all relevant information and options so they can make decisions based on complete and factual information. The CEO should keep the Board fully informed of any significant initiatives or planned personnel changes. The CEO, Board and staff should work as a team with a clear understanding of each others roles and responsibilities.

Dolly Brown - I prefer the CAO approach since it leaves this non-elected official in the role of administrator carrying out the policy defined by elected officials. When he becomes the CEO, he takes on inappropriate functions. One of these is the restricting of public access to county departments and county officers without his prior approval and monitoring.

Carre Brown - The CEO works directly for the BOS, therefore, the power is held by the BOS unless specifically delegated to the CEO. The role of the County's CEO is to follow and carry out the policy as set forth by the Board of Supervisors. If there is a specific area void of policy or of policy lacking in clear direction for administration to follow, it is the duty of the CEO to bring the matter before the BOS for deliberation and resolution. The BOS evaluates the CEO yearly and as Supervisor I will hold the CEO accountable to this "balance of power".

Ukiah Morrison - My impression thus far is that the current position of C.E.O. is acting as more of an impediment to the democratic process. Someone that draws that salary from tax dollars, and wields that much control over the County should be an elected official if that position is to remain. The position has become a weapon instead of the tool it was intended to be. It also usurps responsibilities of the Representative form of government, by putting another layer of decision making in the hands of only one person, beholden only to the few who may have "special interests".

2. Please explain how you will balance being a district representative and the responsibility of being a county Supervisor.

Paula Deeter - Representing the area's constituents is a main reason for my interest in this campaign. As a union steward, I see time and again the lack of services and support that the 4TH DISTRICT is subjected to, and wish to change that. We have a valuable resource -- our people -- that is unlike any other in the County. From retired people to young adults with fresh new ideas, we have the backbone of a strong community. It takes a good supervisor to be able to tap into that resource, and I would like to be that supervisor.

Kendall Smith - I have done this continuously for three and one half years. As a Coastal supervisor, this means long hours of commuting and balancing time in Ukiah and my District. Since Ukiah as the County seat tends to dominate land use discussions, I have studied the UVAP and land use issues in the Ukiah Valley. I have constantly weighed budget priorities for both the equity concerns of the Coast and the fiscal value to the County as a whole.

Estelle Clifton - As the second district supervisor, I will naturally listen to and advocate for the concerns of my constituents first. I will however listen and decide on those issues beyond my own district with an open mind.

John McCowen - As a supervisor I will have a countywide perspective but I will also insure that the interests of the second district are well represented. A particular issue may primarily affect one district but it is the responsibility of the other supervisors to give each issue their full attention and to make decisions that are in the best interests of the county as a whole.

Dolly Brown - I represent the voice of my district - I report on the views of its constituents and inform the Board of impacts of their actions upon this district. However, my primary responsibility must be to the good of the entire County. I cannot be a narrow voice of only my district.

Carre Brown - An elected district representative must be willing to bring forth the critical issues impacting constituents within the district as well as to represent their views and concerns at a County level. A County Supervisor has the responsibility to fully evaluate all business before the board, participate in the discussion and vote on resolution, even if a matter is not of direct concern to their district.

Ukiah Morrison - Generally I will listen twice as much as I will speak. I will observe carefully that which I fix my attention on. I will follow in order to lead. I will recognize that I don't know everything, content in knowing that I am aware of the most important thing. I love communicating with people, especially persons who do not think the way I do. I will carefully consider any reasonable argument with the highest respect for diplomacy. I will also expect the same. I appreciate scrutiny.

Paula Deeter - I have noticed the influence that the Gualala Municipal Advisory Council has had in their area and am quite impressed. As a land use planner, it was a somewhat of a learning curve for all of us (the planning department as well as GMAC) and I think that the best way to describe the CAC is, as an ADVISORY council, with a special benefit to the planners since the members of the particular CAC live in the immediate area and are more aware of the infrastructure (or lack thereof) available, and the neighborhood impacts. While some property owners and developers may see a CAC as an obstacle, as long as the community good is the common goal, the neighborhood groups serve as a valuable resource while the development project is still in the early stages. I have seen some of the best compromises and creative land use solutions when neighbors have had meetings through the CACs or on their own. I understand that Westport also is getting a CAC together and look forward to those meetings.

Kendall Smith - CACs, Advisory Boards and MACs (Municipal Advisory Councils) are important in a county as large and diverse as Mendocino. We have a wealth of volunteers that can be an asset to county government.

Estelle Clifton - The Citizen's Advisory Committees have played an important role in county governance. Twenty-five years ago, CACs helped draft the county's original General Plan. Today I believe their use has been minimized in favor of formal public hearings and the occasional "workshop" that gathers only sufficient public input to meet legal requirements. CACs do add additional time to any process they are used for so, I would reserve them to work on this county's most important or contentious issues.

John McCowen - The Gualala and Laytonville Municipal Advisory Councils provide an opportunity for local residents to review and make recommendations on planning issues and applications. The Public Health Advisory Board, Mental Health Board, Homeless Services Planning Group and others provide an opportunity to review and make recommendations on issues relevant to their areas of concern. The formation of new advisory boards should be considered on a case by case basis.

Dolly Brown - Citizens Advisory Committees can be of benefit in a small and under-populated county such as Mendocino where it is not practical to hire professional advisors for each and every issue. The Grand Jury is poorly utilized and the BOS seems to delight in sneering at, and correcting their findings.

Carre Brown - Citizen Advisory Committees or Commissions provide the public with direct influence and oversight of government services and authority. I believe the County benefits through the various CACs by receiving knowledgeable and professional advice from citizen participation. CACs are valuable and effective tools for maintaining program priorities, providing long range planning and dealing with changing issues. I believe it is important for the County to have a Planning Commission with representation from each district to reflect the diversity of such a large County. It is equally important for certain County departments such as Public Health and Mental Health to receive guidance from professionals and individuals with expertise in that particular field. Through my many years of public service to non-profits and organizations, I have always found the best decisions are reached by an open and strong public process. As a supervisor I would want to periodically evaluate all CACs to determine if their continued service has value or is still needed. If members of any CAC determine that their work is being ignored, or underutilized, this opinion would surface and be addressed during the review.

Ukiah Morrison - I haven't asked anyone, but I suspect C.A.C.'s are referencing either Community Advisory Committee's or Citizen's Action Coalition's. Or something to the effect. I do encourage them as vital for concentrations of information that cannot be accessed through any other real world means. Even as a Representative, no one can be expected to cover all the bases. It is with this in mind that a government can grow to appreciate the mutual benefits of involving them in decision making processes. These groups actually reflect the purest form of democracy by giving voice and body to those who cannot for themselves as individuals find strength and wisdom in collecting the bargaining power of the unit. I will continue, as usual, to recommend the genesis and inclusion of "round-table" discussion groups.

Paula Deeter - My vision for the Ukiah Valley is one of sustainable resources (with green development and building encouraged over that of strip malls) as well as open space remaining. Cluster development should be looked into rather than sprawl, to ensure that the properties for development may be utilized, yet the agricultural uses retained for a well-rounded approach to land use. We need to balance property owner's rights/ developer's rights with sensible land use and retention of lower-impact development. I feel that this is possible through some compromise.

Kendall Smith - An environmentally sound and safe larger community with vibrant agriculture, affordable housing and clusters of walkable communities. Quality education, thriving arts with cultural pluralism enhances diverse economic opportunity.

Estelle Clifton - I envision a valley in which nearly all our urban development is concentrated in a redeveloped urban core with walking and biking trails and increased public transportation. A valley in which: oak woodlands and riparian areas (such as stream corridors and wetlands) are identified and enhanced. Were agricultural lands are increasingly supported by the immediate community through crop diversification, a buy local campaign, and increased manufacturing of in-county agricultural products.

John McCowen - My vision for the Ukiah Valley in 2020 is that we will have a thriving locally based economy that provides living wage jobs so that everyone who works in our community can afford to live here. The City of Ukiah and the County reached agreement on revenue sharing back in 2009 and since that time land use decisions have been made based on planning principles instead of economic competition. With regional planning in place, the City and County have been able to protect agriculture, prevent urban sprawl and focus new development in the urban core in order to create a business friendly and responsive environment without sacrificing our small town character and quality of life. The City and County routinely cooperate to provide improved and cost effective services to the public in a wide range of areas including housing, recreation, and improved public safety.

Dolly Brown - The valley is an organic thing, growing, adjusting and tolerating our mis-use. I envision fewer cars, more farming of our own food, total self-sufficiency in electric power generation, a growing number of carbon-neutral manufacturing enterprises, and self-sufficiency in the production of most building materials, meat, fish, poultry, vegetables, and fibers. A quieter, more socially integrated community with provision for low income housing, guaranteed health care, and assistance to those unable to sustain themselves. We can continue with our tradition of being on the leading edge in social consciousness and the application of humanism to our social problems.

Carre Brown - Here it is 2020, but we still live in such a special place with a strong sense of community all around us. Throughout the Valley attractive townships have blossomed up surrounded by the natural beauty of our hills and farmland. It is a place where community members, the city and county work extremely well together. The area's water entities are all working together in making the best use of this indispensable resource. We have robust business communities that provide good paying private sector jobs. Our residents have an attractive, high-quality place to live and work with sustainable and balanced land uses. There are suitable housing opportunities and choices that cover the broad scope of salary ranges of our citizens. We have compact, walkable neighborhoods where residents live near services and social opportunities. Such neighborhoods mean residents can drive less in their daily activities, which has helped to reduce air pollution from automobiles. Those living outside the Valley have also helped with reducing air pollution by taking advantage of the expanded regional transportation provided by MTA. We were blessed with this future because residents were given the opportunity to provide aid and support to elected officials and other leaders for Land Use Planning based on actual needs that created realistic blueprints for decades to come.

Ukiah Morrison - The vision that I share with many of the people in Mendocino County and the entire North Coast Region involves the second most controversial topic in this race: Masonite! What happens to Masonite will determine the future for a much wider area than just the immediate Ukiah Valley. Our vision is to focus on the future needs rather than contemporary wants. Our vision is to focus on the light industrial and agricultural zoning that already exists as a means of stimulating the economy. Our vision is that the environmental crisis will inevitably propel us into recognizing the importance of sustainable environmental practices. This in turn will require a perpetual need for education and hands-on learning. With this in mind I propose an educational / vocational center that shows the world that in Mendocino County we know what it means to "think global, act local". We wouldn't have to worry about cutting down too many trees, or catching up all the fish, or buying a farm to raise a cow that eats all the corn so vegetarians go hungry and can't fuel their VW. This would be an endeavor that is the "only activity" that at least steers us in the right direction.

5. What is your opinion of having most of the North & South State Street corridor of the Ukiah Valley in a redevelopment district? How will it be positive and/or negative?

Paula Deeter - Given the increase of large, "big-box" stores in the Ukiah valley, I believe that including both North and South State streets in a redevelopment area is a prudent thing to be doing. In order to support local small businesses and maximize their success, having that area available for grants and low cost loans is a positive thing to be doing by looking ahead.

Kendall Smith - Redevelopment needs to benefit the community, not government structures. The districts need to be as broad or as reduced as the value of their designation warrants. Businesses and residents must benefit.

Estelle Clifton - It is positive to review and make long-range plans for public benefit areas such as commercial and industrial sites. The design and patterns of growth that are put into place by our government directly influenced the health and security of Mendocino County. In general there are numerous development standards the county needs to create. We need additional policies that ensure redevelopment areas are built with energy and water conservation standards as well as riparian area setbacks and enhancements. Simply having these districts is not enough. It is imperative that both these redevelopment districts along with Calpella's are provided with sufficient board direction and staff leadership and support to actually create positive change for these areas.

John McCowen - The North and South State Street areas are appropriate for redevelopment because they need improvements to basic road and utility infrastructure to encourage private investment for housing and economic development. Like any other redevelopment area, the results will depend on whether or not the redevelopment money is spent for projects that are appropriate for the area and that fulfill the intention of encouraging private investment that adds to the tax base and creates jobs and housing.

Dolly Brown - Fully support the plan, but I need to become better informed of its details.

Carre Brown - I think it is positive step for the areas designated. Why? Under law the formation of a redevelopment agency has the specific goal of revitalizing a deteriorated area. Redevelopment encourages and attracts private sector investment that otherwise would not occur in blighted areas. Redevelopment in these areas can create jobs and expand business opportunities, provide affordable housing, and improve infrastructure. I believe this is an opportunity for our community. Redevelopment Agencies fund themselves when they make improvements within their selected areas. They stimulate increases in property values that otherwise would not have occurred. I do understand there is a clause in the ordinance that disallows condemnations. The negative side is that the authority over the Redevelopment Agency, the BOS, may allow land uses and/or rezones that would not happen otherwise. Also, the area being so big could promote urban sprawl instead of compact development.

Ukiah Morrison - Right now, I think it is biting off more than we can chew. I suspect that some of the residents in those areas are finding reasons to be for or against it. I think we should concentrate on one issue at a time, because otherwise it seems only a half-ass job will get done, if it gets done at all. Generally, changes of this variety are frowned upon by residents and expected by business. My interests are going to be with the residents. That being said, I am not a purist and will remain open minded. I am not afraid of changing my mind if the information to do so presents itself to me or I may find it on my own.

Paula Deeter - Again, by looking at cluster development, which will allow for non-ag use in a small portion of the property, balanced by the continuing open space use of the land. This will require rethinking land use within the confines of the current zoning code.

Kendall Smith - Maintaining ag land use designations in prime ag land areas. Once it's gone, it's gone.

Estelle Clifton - The county must be proactive in encouraging a diverse range of agricultural endeavors so that our farmers and this county are not dependent on the wellbeing of a single crop or product. I support efforts that would make farming a viable choice at any scale while improving food security for this community. I will never vote to re-designate agricultural land unless the voters of my district overwhelmingly support a specific project.

John McCowen - As a member of the County Planning Commission and the City Council I have consistently advocated and voted for the protection of agricultural land. I will push for a tax sharing agreement and regional planning that focuses development in the urban core and prevents urban sprawl and the loss of agricultural lands. I also support the right to farm ordinance that protects agricultural producers from complaints about normal farming operations.

Dolly Brown - Block its conversion to housing tracts such as that proposed for the vineyards along Lover's Lane.

Carre Brown - As a supervisor I will protect farmland in the Ukiah Valley by ensuring strong General Plan goals and policies for their protection along with measures that do not allow for urban sprawl into our agricultural corridors. The implementation measures can include many tools such as strengthening the Right To Farm Ordinance, urban growth boundaries, community separators, buffers and ag preserves. Clear General Plan language to protect farmland can keep corporate developers from purchasing these lands for rezoning to other uses. Another key to keep our farmland viable in the Valley is ensuring an adequate and affordable water supply. Food grows where water flows, therefore, as a community we cannot allow urban development to take place without first identifying an adequate water source that will not take water from our ag lands. In addition, we need to aggressively look for and attract industry that processes the raw ag product into a value added product for export. Other innovative ideas to keep our ag lands viable include programs for the sale of commodities locally and developing a carbon credit program for our orchard land.

Ukiah Morrison - Although I don't own my home I tend to it as though it were. I grew up on farms as a child and young adult and carry those experiences with me everyday. I think that farming is the very backbone of civilization. Our very existence depends on our cultivation of plants, animals, and the collective consciousness of humanity. I intend on keeping farmlands in farmers hands. I also would like to encourage them to further resist the push for GMO crops, and planting in rows. The option that I offer is Permaculture, and developing an interest in cultivating the soil itself as a means of enhancing its nutritional composition. Beyond Organic. I also don't want a continuation of antibiotics being administered only to be urinated into the water table. There are more reasonable ways of producing an income from a farm that doesn't take more than it gives. This is the future of Mendocino County!

7. What kind of economic growth would you like to see in the Ukiah Valley? How would you make this happen?

Paula Deeter - I would like to see a steady increase in the amount of jobs that pay a living wage in this county. It is difficult to find qualified people that are willing to pay the cost of living in this area, without the benefit of a competitive wage. In order to accomplish this, the county needs to be able to keep up with the latest trends in development ("green" or eco-tourism, etc) and make sure that our county is consistent with that thought -- by practicing what we preach. It doesn't make sense to encourage biodiversity and yet allow certain businesses to make a mess of the land. Regardless of the business, all should be held to the same standards as required by law. Violators of this must be made to pay for clean up, and site restoration. We also have a rich resource of volunteers that are locals. Grant-writing and research projects should not be out-sourced if we have locals that are willing to enrich their community, and if we can pay them at a comparable rate, so much the better. People that have a stake in their community will undoubtedly provide a much better product than someone who is just doing the job for a paycheck.

Kendall Smith - Economic growth needs to be considered countywide, not just in the Ukiah Valley. The growth should consider community values, environmental sustainability and benefits for the largest population base possible. Instituting land use planning that is insync with state trends towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as an example, is a start.

Estelle Clifton - As your supervisor one of my top priorities is the creation of a Comprehensive Economic Plan for the county's economic development arm; one that focuses on creating a more sustainable local economy that will best suit our local needs; giving a preference to locally owned businesses, whether it be for expansion or beginning entrepreneurs.

John McCowen - I would like to see locally based economic growth so that more of our dollars stay here and re-circulate in the community. For the same reason we also need more of our grapes, timber and other agricultural and natural resource products to be processed locally. The Mendocino Winegrape & Wine Commission has recently decided to develop an identity as the greenest wine region. Encouraging local alternative energy and green building industries is a natural compliment to that. As a member of the Board of Supervisors I will help create and support policies to implement these ideas. I will also encourage the continued cooperation of the Winegrape & Wine Commission, the Mendocino County Lodging Association, the Mendocino County Promotional Alliance, the Ukiah Chamber of Commerce, the Ukiah Main Street Program and others so that we can get the most value for our promotional efforts.

Dolly Brown - Improve the wage level of our lower income families first. Attract industrial projects that will provide year-round employment to those who want it. We will never become a major manufacturing hub - we are too far from population centers and our tax base is too small to support major infrastructure projects for major population growth. We must encourage the export of wine, specialty manufactured goods such as solar energy equipment, and wood products

Carre Brown - A high priority of County government must be to build our business community in order to provide good paying private sector jobs and provide tax revenues for the County coffers. Manufacturing and light industry can pay a living wage with benefits. Single-family businesses are the number one employer in the Nation and keep money locally rather than profits going to corporate headquarters elsewhere. This County can do more to entice small, independent businesses to the County and assist local entrepreneurs as well as working to keep the family businesses we have. I believe there is a lack of vision and will at the highest level of local government in relation to long-term planning toward economic growth. One way to make it happen is to establish a citizens' advisory committee made up of local business people who become the actual ambassadors to seek and welcome new business to the County. In addition we need to work with the Mendocino Promotional Alliance, the Lodging Association and the Wine Commission to assist with their efforts of promotion. We need to surface businesses who will utilize local resources and add to their value.

Ukiah Morrison - Besides those already mentioned, I would like to see the cities operate Medical Cannabis Dispensaries and draw the tax revenue unto themselves. This would then be redistributed through a third party that funds community programs and projects that the people decide on. Such as a Skate Park, or Low Income Housing Funds, the Food Bank, etc. I would also like to see inventive services become more commonplace, such as Bicycle couriers. Or light bulb recyclers. Compost specialist. Myco-remediation is a new occupation that has the ability remove toxins from a contamination site. We could start a school for that.

8. Should the county work with the cities to achieve the cities goals? If yes, how can the County help achieve these goals? If no, why?

Paula Deeter - This is a bit vague as a question, but lacking a specific instance, I would say yes. It has been far too long that the County and cities act independantly of each other, when a symbiotic relationship would potentially benefit both. The County can approach this in a manner of different ways; one solution would be to charge a development fee for in-city development that would be earmarked for larger community projects. It also could reduce redundancy in overlapping codes.

Kendall Smith - Yes. There needs to be more collaboration of city/county goals regarding infrastructure and finite resources. Community values and concerns as well.

Estelle Clifton - I support the cities goals within the Perkins Street Corridor and prefer the county courts and other county offices remain in the city core. The form based zoning as well as other aesthetic and traffic calming proposals will enhance our county seat (Ukiah). I believe the county was wrong to leave the city out of the UVAP. I want to see the county and city work as partners to plan and enhance our urban centers.

John McCowen - Yes, the county should work cooperatively with the cities to achieve the cities' goals. The County can best accomplish this by adopting a tax sharing agreement with the City of Ukiah followed by similar agreements with Willits and Fort Bragg. We will not have effective cooperation between the cities and the County as long as we are in competition for sales tax revenue. Without cooperation, development will continue to take place without logical planning; appropriate infrastructure won't get built; and traffic and other impacts won't be mitigated. Many citizens are not sure or don't care if they live in the city or County - they just want to see local government work together to provide appropriate services.

Carre Brown - The County and all cities within the County need to work together on behalf of all our citizens and on all issues, especially on planning matters. It is a two-way dialogue that must be promoted. HOWEVER, both the County and City must have leaders who have the ability to provide the leadership that is necessary in working to find long-term solutions. The First District needs a supervisor who can be inclusive and seek consensus among the diverse interests to benefit all county residents.

Ukiah Morrison - Yes, besides the Dispensary suggestion, we could do the same sort of arrangement with fuel. Particularly biomass fuels. Byproducts from other agricultural programs in the county could be producing ethanol or methane in a suitable location. This technology already exists and is being used in Canada. It does NOT depend on corn as its primary ingredient. We could eliminate the majority of the costs incurred from having to ship fuel from Iraq to Philo. Mendo -- to Go. I also think that we need to cooperate more on the water. I will encourage Rainwater Harvesting and Collection during my term if elected.

9. The Ukiah Valley Area Plan process has been going on for 18 years. At this point, do you think the Ukiah Valley Area Plan is needed? Why or why not? Please critique the process.

Paula Deeter I think that the UVAP has a valuable use -- if it can ever get written. A specific deadline and an outline for the basic information should be given by the CEO and Planning Director. If I had my choice, the Planning Team would be disbanded and the long-range planners returned to the Planning department. Again, outsourcing this project has proved to be a time and money-waster and should be in the hands of people that actually live in the area.

Estelle Clifton - The fact that UVAP has been an issue in this valley for almost two decades indicates that there are deep held beliefs that this area needs some sort of more specific guidance than the General Plan alone can bring. The problem is the UVAP has become a vehicle for private developers to advance their own projects or interests. The public participation and testimony could have been useful for the development of a specific area plan. But, unfortunately this was not reflected in the format the county chose to focus the UVAP on. The process has been very suspect, particularly workshops #2 and #3. At workshop #2 the public was told to lay out on maps, paper squares representing various zoning: residential, big box, industrial, mixed use, etc. in the nine mysteriously chosen change areas. They were then instructed to use all of the squares with no idea of how much would fit in any one place. Under the clock, the process and the limited change-area focus corralled the public. At workshop #3 the public was told to vote for various alternatives in the 9 change areas without a ballot mark given to maintaining the existing use. This process has been unfortunate, as this area would benefit from a more detailed land use and policy plan that reflects this area's characteristics. It would have been better for this plan to acknowledge the interests of the greater community as well. The UVAP that the board plans to adopt does not do this and I will work to change that as your supervisor.

John McCowen - In early 2006 the Board of Supervisors directed that the UVAP be revised to respond to citizen concerns. Since that time the process has gotten off track again and the concerns of the public and the City of Ukiah have been ignored. A Ukiah Valley Area Plan (UVAP) is needed now more than ever, but it must be a true collaborative process with meaningful citizen participation and City/ County cooperation. Otherwise, it will be another exercise in futility that will sit on the shelf gathering dust instead of being a blueprint for logical and sustainable patterns of growth and development.

Dolly Brown - Yes. Without a UVAP and a General Plan, developers, contractors, real estate hawks and large landholders will continue to view our county as their Crap Table - the place where they get the best odds and set the rules of the game.

Carre Brown - The UVAP process by the County of Mendocino began well after the City of Ukiah adopted the rewrite of their General Plan. I believe two problems surfaced immediately for the County: 1) the City of Ukiah never legally moved forward on changing their sphere of influence through LAFCO and; 2) the County General Plan was reaching its horizon of time for an update. I reasoned the two would have a major crash. The Board of Supervisors rejected those concerns at the time. I do believe the UVAP needs to be adopted by the County for the area covered by the City of Ukiah's planning area. My reason is neither the County or the City can separate the many interests they must share in providing for sound land use planning for the Ukiah Valley. Their interests are intertwined, therefore, mutual goals essential to good planning must be officially agreed upon.

Ukiah Morrison - As reference material, it still has some use. As a window to view our future, I don't think so. I have more confidence in some of the work done by groups such as G.U.L.P. and others. I would prefer to have more of that contemporary awareness in the decision making process.

10. As supervisor what value do you see in attending City Council meetings? How often will you attend?

Paula Deeter - As the 4TH DISTRICT is comprised of many small towns, with only one incorporated city, I feel that the Board should be attending at least quarterly City Council meetings throughout the county. The public meetings are a valuable opportunity to speak with concerned members of the area and get a better sense of important issues to each community.

Kendall Smith - There is value in attending. I attend Fort Bragg City Council meetings as often as I can. This is a challenge with frequent BOS meetings on Mondays and Tuesdays, these almost always held in Ukiah. The City of Fort Bragg and the County are meeting with increased frequency on topics of mutual concern such as wave energy. I am a regular participant in these meetings.

Estelle Clifton - There are definitely decisions the council will make that the county should way in on. When there are items before the council, such as resource and development items, water (POU, POD, etc.), or other matters that are interrelated, I will participate as an invited speaker and a member of the audience. The Mendocino County Supervisors and the City Councils must work in cooperation.

John McCowen - The second district encompasses the City of Ukiah and it is imperative that the second district supervisor be well informed about issues that the City is facing. I will attend as many City Council meetings as my schedule permits and meet frequently with City officials to identify opportunities to work together and to keep each other informed.

Dolly Brown - When I can learn something about the impacts of BOS decisions upon the Cities and when I can possibly point out to the Councils and the public how we can work together.

Carre Brown - I do see value in a supervisor attending city council meetings as often as possible. The First Supervisorial District boundaries run adjacent to the city limits of Ukiah. It is in the best interest of both governmental bodies to have good communication on all issues of mutual interest and benefit to its citizens.

Ukiah Morrison - I think that it is essential for an informed citizen become well informed by attending these crucial gatherings where our futures are often decided upon. Generally without our prior knowledge or consent. This is what spurred me into becoming an activist many years ago, and still drives me to run for public office today.

11. Would you prefer "design guidelines" or a "design code"? Why?

Paula Deeter - I feel that design guidelines, which are used in the historical town of Mendocino, have been extremely useful while still allowing for artistic expression and builder's interpretation. Should we have a design code, it will not be long before our community has the appearance of Sea Ranch

Kendall Smith Both could have their place. A design code would need to have enough flexibility as to be reasonably implemented.

Estelle Clifton - The UVAP should start with comprehensive design guidelines that set broad concepts for future growth. Pending the outcome of the City of Ukiah's Form-based Code project, the County should investigate whether such a process may make sense for the unincorporated areas as well (code modifications are substantially more involved -- and expensive -- than guidelines). I would like to see both design guidelines and design codes. We need some critical codes to increase passive solar design and LID (low impact development) site plans but can't expect all developers to shoulder ideal design expenses. To further increase cooperation with additional guidelines, incentives are appropriate.

John McCowen - A "design code" is preferable to "design guidelines" because a code offers a more efficient and specific process. A code provides greater assurance to the public about the final appearance of a project. A code also tells the applicant/developer in advance exactly what they need in order to build a project instead of going through a lengthy and expensive process and possibly being denied.

Dolly Brown - Design guidelines allows more flexibility in my opinion. Carre Brown

Ukiah Morrison - My observation is that design codes are often too stringent and sometimes not adhered to. A design guideline would offer more flexibility for the County and the builder. In the interests of low cost housing and sustainability, I would like to see guidelines that allow for projects to be built using techniques that are taught at the Solar Living Center. Rammed earth, adobe, straw-bale, mud brick, etc. I would also like to see guidelines that put the needs of the environment first. I would prefer that no tree ever be cut down again. I could explain just why I think you should agree, but it would take awhile.

12. Have you attended any Citizen U or Smart Growth Coalition events? Which ones? What did you think of them and why?

Paula Deeter - I have not attended these events, but would welcome the opportunity to do so.

Estelle Clifton - I attended the Citizen U housing discussion as well as the Michael Shuman discussion. I liked the Housing forum because it brought a diverse group of people together for a healthy dialogue. The Shuman forum while creating less community connection (due to the scale of attendance) was an extremely valuable presentation on local business' economic power. It was an ideal format to educate the public on price checking and conscious consumerism.

John McCowen - I attended all of the Citizen U meetings and the general meetings that have been called by Smart Growth. The Citizen U meetings provided excellent information on planning issues that are relevant to the UVAP. The general meetings were helpful in informing the public and providing information about the UVAP and other planning proposals.

Carre Brown - I have attended almost all of the BOS public hearings, workshops and focus groups involving the Ukiah Valley Area Plan and the update of the General Plan. I have not attended a DDR or Creekbridge Homes public presentation, but attended the last Citizen U event held at the Ukiah Civic Center. I do think it is important for people to become educated in planning concepts. I have read or viewed videos regarding these concepts - what has worked and what hasn't- through the last 20 years.

Ukiah Morrison - I haven't attended any of them, but not for lack of desire. I did listen to the coverage of one or more on the community radio. I heard the turn out was better than expected and am inspired to know that folks are involved. I was isolated in a remote location without transportation. Now I live closer, and can attend. When is the next one?

13. Do you see a need to strengthen the County Planning Commission's role for the county? If yes, how would you do that?

Paula Deeter - I see the need to bring the Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors into today's "cross-training" ability. For instance, when presenting a land use project of mine to both the Board of Supervisors and the Planning Commission, it was necessary to describe the Coastal Act and details of this to both groups, when really it should have been apparent prior to the hearings. Continuing education for both offices should be encouraged, if even as informal as visiting local County offices and speaking to the workers for a better sense of what they are regulating.

Kendall Smith - We need planning commissioners that are well informed on land use issues. We need planning commissioners that can speak candidly and definitively to the BOS on a host of topics.

Estelle Clifton - Personally, I don't see any need to restructure the commission. When the BOS overrides a PC decision based on political or personal viewpoints, no structural changes can fix that. I suspect the board did not send the UVAP through the Planning Commission because the plan would have received more thorough review by the commissioners and the public rendering the board's controversial votes in direct conflict with the populous.

John McCowen - Yes, I believe the role of the County Planning Commission should be strengthened with regard to major planning issues like UVAP and the General Plan update. For example, the Planning Commission should have been invited to make formal recommendations to the Board of Supervisors regarding the nine UVAP discussion areas. With over eight years as a Planning Commissioner, including three as chair, I will bring a planning perspective and extensive planning experience to the Board, as well as a greater respect for the decisions of the Planning Commission.

Dolly Brown - The Director of Planning can best serve by recruiting citizens to form study panels. Paid planning staff too often lack imagination, take the safe approach that satisfies their supervisors, and serves merely to enforce the regulations already on the books. The less planning staff the better.

Carre Brown - I believe the County Planning Commission is already a strong and knowledgeable body on planning issues, both judicial and legislative. Presently, the real issue for the Planning Commission is having adequate and experienced staff to prepare the work product needed on each planning item presented. The separation of the judicial process from the legislative process into two different departments has caused much confusion not only for the public, but the staff as well.

14. Do you believe the economic health of existing businesses and other government agencies should play a significant role in major planning decisions such as the Masonite rezoning?

Paula Deeter - Only to a certain point. When we are looking at an industrially zoned property with quite a bit of open space, I am assured of a few things: one, when the rezoning goes through, it will never return to an industrial zone; and two, does this give the message that money makes any project okay? While I do believe in property owner's rights, this is for the current zoning, not a speculative purchase. Community sentiment should count for quite a lot on this subject.

Estelle Clifton - Absolutely. The county will not benefit in the long run from a financially impoverished city or depressed local economy. Whatever short-term tax benefit the county will gain they will be more than outweighed by the increased costs elsewhere. We need to grow our tax base, not cannibalize it. Public Service is a sacred trust. As your supervisor, I will not approve this or any other designation change that would benefit one party at the expense of our community. Adding even more commercial land would threaten more jobs than it would create and only lead to blight in existing areas thus devaluing existing commercial parcels.

John McCowen - Yes, it serves a legitimate public interest (and is mandated by state law) to consider the economic impact on existing businesses and government agencies when considering major planning decisions.

Dolly Brown - Certainly. The health and well-being of existing commercial enterprises has been given very little consideration so far. Turning the planning process over to DDR was a stupid idea. They have absolutely no interest in the needs and desires of the public here. In fact they have shown that they merely wish to understand it only sufficiently to allow efficient manipulation of us. The BOS seems to think that a vastly successful shopping mall developer must know just what we need. Very strange logic there.

Carre Brown - Yes I do. The County needs to seriously evaluate: 1) whether their planning proposal for a rezone adversely impacts other governmental entities including special districts and; 2) if existing businesses are going to be put at a competitive disadvantage.

15. The front half of the Masonite property has been proposed for 700,000 square feet of "mixed-use" development. Tell us your vision for that project or property.

Paula Deeter - Cluster development, with residential structures atop low-impact retail or office uses, and the rest of the property retained as open space. Play areas for children, a skate/recreation area for older youths, and a community garden area could be incorporated into this for a true sense of sustainability.

Kendall Smith The County needs to complete the general plan update to see how it affects the Masonite reuse question. The Georgia Pacific Mill Site reuse planning process is unfolding in a very different way.

Estelle Clifton - There is significant local opposition to breaking up a large, viable industrial area for incompatible commercial purposes. No one single solution best fits this site. In my opinion the site would be best utilized for a mix of industrial uses that meet a variety of local economic needs. Given the current industrial designation and the location of near by industries and rail access, keeping the industrial designation remains the best choice for this area.

John McCowen - I do not support the proposed project. The "mixed-use Masonite" classification has not been defined, but is likely to include 500,000 to 700,000 square feet of retail development. My vision for the Masonite site is that it remain zoned industrial and that the City and County encourage alternative energy, green building, value added and other businesses that will enhance our local economy and provide living wage jobs.

Dolly Brown - Actually, the latest maps by Ruff and Associates show 500,000 of large big retailers at the south end of the site, not at the front end. The mixed use is the smaller two story retail, live-work sites, and parking located at the entry end - to the north. I will support a program to plan and attract small industrial enterprises to the site. These will have several possible rationales: First - to provide employment for our 7% unemployed, and our vast number of under-employed. Second: To produce goods and process food that we need here. That will cut the 15% freight off our daily necessities. Third: To produce export products that will bring money into our county

Carre Brown - It is a good idea, but one needs to look at Windsor to see if this model is working. It is not and there are numerous theories about its lack of success. One is location. My desire for that particular site is to surface businesses that have proven potential for growth. Areas of specialization that show opportunity on the North Coast and in rural areas are: Building and Systems Construction and Maintenance; Specialty Agriculture, Food, and Beverages; and Niche Manufacturing.

Ukiah Morrison - A principle emphasis of the project is that although it would seem to consume a substantial amount of natural resources, it will in fact consume less and produce more. Particularly when it comes to the water, the first most important subject of the human race. The project would blend the best practices center for Permaculture and Hydroponic or Aeroponics and other means for producing food and medicine in a concentrated area. It would feature Greenhouses that incorporate the latest advances in "renewable energy" and cultivation. It would equally serve as a natural water filtration system and could even produce its own energy through biomass. Then the project could eventually supply the local transportation needs without dependence on foreign wars, I mean oil. We could also acquire the equipment to begin light manufacturing of the Hemp and Bamboo stalks that will be arriving from all over the state. We could produce paving material from the cellulose, without all the environmental damage and repave our roads with material we can appreciate. Or we could make car parts like Henry Ford did in the original prototypes. Or better yet, we could make "ANYTHING YOU WANT" from it. My favorite is of course, low cost housing, but I am not the only one. Many of the products that we buy are shipped here from China. Instead of Home Depot, think Hemp Depot. The transportation costs are going to kill us if the Heparin doesn't first. I know many people in this area would love to work at a factory, close to home, that provides a living wage producing Hemp/Bamboo clothes, or building materials, or processing Seed oil for food or industry. I also could envision being a manufacturer of long life batteries, such as those found in submarines, but for solar panels and the electric cars. All of this could be done at the Masonite site and it would become the pleasant source of joy for the thousands of people it would employ and engage in business with. It would also serve as an educational learning center wherein tourists and travelers will see that versions of this could be incorporated into their communities and have the same positive effect.

16. Are you in favor of the Masonite project being rezoned so that it could become a retail mall? Do you think a majority of the general public wants that?

Paula Deeter - I personally do not agree with the proposed rezone for mall use. I see quite a bit of unused retail space that has yet to be filled up& why would we rezone an area for a speculative purchase, rather than thinking this through? Is there an industrial use, perhaps with better paying jobs than those at a retail store, willing to locate in the Ukiah area? Have we exhausted those possibilities, or is this a "quick fix"?

Kendall Smith - Specific large-scale projects should not drive land use planning or decision-making.

Estelle Clifton - I oppose the rezoning of the Masonite site from industrial to a classification that allows an unspecified mix of commercial and multifamily residential uses. The majority of the voting public does not want a "mall"; rather they want the board to focus on economic development planning that will encourage high wage industrial job creation. I have found that many who are in favor of a mall primarily want a Costco and a Trader Joes and are unaware of the abundance of commercially zoned properties available in the Ukiah Valley. There is sufficient commercial land to meet the entire County's 20-year anticipated commercial needs, just within the City of Ukiah.

John McCowen - No, I do not favor rezoning the Masonite property from industrial to retail because there is over one million square feet of land already zoned for retail within the UVAP planning area and also because Masonite is a proven industrial site. Let's build out the existing inventory of land zoned for retail before we consider rezoning one of our best industrial sites. Based on comments at public meetings and in talking with literally hundreds of citizens I am convinced that a solid majority of the public is opposed to the loss of industrial zoning at Masonite.

Dolly Brown - No. It is not in the public's interest. I can only guess what a poll of the public would produce and that would all depend upon how well-informed they were allowed to be.

Carre Brown - No, I am not in favor of a retail mall at this location. I have been given many different views by the public as to what should happen. Most people have a very strong opinion one way or another. The views extend from the need to grow our tax revenue base and the retail mall developer has been the only project that has come forward to those who believe mega shopping malls are bad. In the First District I believe the opinions on a retail mall at this location are about equal, pro and con. My stand has remained the same even though I have lost support as a result. A retail mall at this location IS NOT A LOGICAL EXTENTION WITHIN THIS INDUSTRIAL CORRIDOR.

Ukiah Morrison - NO! NO! I know some of the people who do want that, but they often don't realize the unintentional consequence of this line of non-reasoning.

17. How might the Masonite rezone affect the "character" of the valley?

Paula Deeter - I speak to many people that have relocated to the Ukiah area from a larger city. One of the biggest reasons I hear for their move is the beauty of the area. Not once have I heard someone say it was because of all the great strip malls. Although shopping opportunities are convenient, they do not need to be spread out throughout the city when retail stores sit empty right now for lack of a tenant.

Estelle Clifton - The full rezoning will alter the character of the valley by introducing a large shopping area that is out of character for this area while at the same time would lead to blight in existing commercial areas, helping to destroy any chance of building a better urban fabric within Ukiah itself.

John McCowen - If the Masonite rezone results in the development of 500,000 to 700,000 square feet of retail -the preferred alternative of the developer - it will create a situation where we have more retail development than we can support. The new development will do well, but it will come at the expense of existing businesses, create a traffic nightmare, and result in the loss of our small town character.

Dolly Brown - I seriously doubt DDR will go ahead in the next ten years with this retail mall. Disposable incomes are falling. Houses are sinking in value. We are likely to look at a barren concrete paved site for the foreseeable future unless we take it upon ourselves to initiate some industrial planning and promotion.

Carre Brown - The Masonite rezone will change the logical extension of how our Valley grows well into the future. Allowing the rezone at this location will allow for other rezones to take place based upon whoever comes to town with the money to make it happen - even against sound planning principles.

Ukiah Morrison - It will determine the fate of the region whether for the good or the bad. It is up to us to decide, not the next retail center to offer some flash in the pan.

18. Are you in favor or against a sales tax sharing agreement between the City of Ukiah and the County? Please explain?

Paula Deeter - I am in favor of it, IF the City of Ukiah is to pay their fair share to the County. It must be reciprocal!

Kendall Smith - In favor. The details need to be well thought out with both parties participating in a transparent process.

Estelle Clifton - Since I am not in favor of the county competing for sales tax project with the city I was originally not in favor of a tax sharing agreement but, after the North Coast Builders exchange, Chamber of Commerce, and Employers Council forum in which the audience was 95% in favor of a tax sharing agreement with the city I am open on this position. If the residence believe a sales tax agreement is needed to preemptively discourage competitive one party planning by the county or city I will support a sales tax sharing agreement not only with the city of Ukiah but ideally other cities in the county as well.

John McCowen - Yes, I am in favor of a tax sharing agreement and that will be one of my priorities if elected to the Board. A tax sharing agreement is the only way to break the 30 year impasse that has blocked regional planning and the development of traffic mitigations and other appropriate infrastructure. Once a tax sharing agreement is in place, the City and County will be able to collaborate in a variety of ways to provide improved and cost effective service to the public.

Carre Brown - I am in favor of revenue sharing agreements between the County and its cities. A property tax sharing agreement is required by law under the Cortese, Knox and Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act. A sales tax revenue sharing agreement is not, although it can be negotiated. I believe the County should negotiate and adopt a Master Property Tax Exchange Agreement with all the cities involved in the agreement as soon as possible.

Ukiah Morrison - I mentioned the tax sharing revolving around Dispensaries, and fuel, maybe another Bring Back the Greenback program could be initiated. The future of Cannabis is as a Commodity. Whether we like it or not, one day sooner rather than later, investment groups are going to see it for the untapped market it is an swoop down upon those unsuspecting the deals being made behind the close doors of corporate greed. The next thing you know Old Jeb could be a millionaire from the Green Gold, instead of the Texas Tea. Legitimately. After all, the Feds expect their portion, why shouldn't the State and County? Think about it, others are already are.

Paula Deeter - We truly need to apply low impact development guidelines to our current building standards, with respect to rainwater recapture, and the possibility of using graywater for irrigation not meant for consumption; i.e. flower gardens.

Estelle Clifton - The subject of water is vitally important to the county and should receive our full attention. I will pursue policies that will reduce Mendocino County's above-average rate of water consumption and comprehensively assess the County's water situation before recommending supply increases at significant economic or environmental cost to County residents. As your Supervisor, I will promote watershed supply studies, enhancement of ground water recharge, and conservation, so that available capacity can be properly allocated between agricultural, domestic, industrial, and commercial uses. If additional water supplies are necessary, I will advocate for smaller, decentralized, localized projects, which are more cost effective, feasible, and timely.

John McCowen - It is essential that Mendocino County develop a regional water policy in order to protect existing sources and develop new ones. The City, County, Flood Control District and Water Districts need to speak with one voice to effectively advocate for a reduction of the cut-back from the Potter Valley Project from the current 33% or more to the originally projected 15%. We also need to focus on water conservation, use of reclaimed water and changing the Army Corps of Engineers policy in order to permanently allow more spring storage in Lake Mendocino.

Dolly Brown - I don't know what new zoning designations specifically that you are referring to so I can't respond intelligently.

Carre Brown - Ignoring long-term water solutions is foolish policy. A necessity of life - there is barely enough water to meet the needs of the present population in a dry year. Conservation measures alone will not provide for an adequate water supply in the future. In most years, we have the cheapest water there is - from rainfall and run-off. The real problem we face is the lack of storage. Most of our Water Districts - not just inland, but throughout the County - cannot afford to move forward on their own project. However, we cannot repeat the mistakes of the past based on this argument. We need to go forward to select the best possible project(s) and then provide strong oversight to control the cost of development. This is a complicated issue that needs to be addressed at many levels. Water supply solutions are compounded by the difficulty of bringing together all the different interests, not only locally but also regionally. For people in the First District and the Russian River watershed the need to pay for new water projects is bittersweet. Lake Mendocino has had its inflow from the Eel River through the Potter Valley Project reduced due to a modeling mistake by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. This issue cannot be resolved without a regional alliance formed among all the interests. I contend that unless there is new thinking regionally to form an alliance among neighboring Counties, Tribes, Environmental groups, and our State and Federal elected representatives, outside interests will resolve "who gets the Eel River water" for us. I believe it is only a matter of time before other, wealthier areas of the State come here to take over our precious water resources as was attempted several decades ago.

Ukiah Morrison - Water is Life. I understand that plumbing water causes it to lose its vitality. It becomes lifeless. Technology exists to solve that problem, and it can be implemented on a small and large scale. One example is called the Nordic Living Water Revitalizer. The Ukiah Brewing Company and Restaurant have one. I also want to conserve our water in a manner that a cactus would envy. I have also seen demonstrations that many technologies also exist that can turn water into energy. I don't recall every detail of the science behind it, but I think it is referred to as an HHO power supply. I think one of the demonstrations used water as though it were a torch, to cut metal, but was harmless to the skin, and had water return as a byproduct of the process. I wonder how many other candidates know as much about water as I do?

20. The County is considering implementing new zoning in the UVAP. These new zoning designations do not currently exist in local or state law. Please comment.

Paula Deeter - I am unclear on how the County would enforce these if not currently echoed in any state or local law. This could result in litigation between the County and a developer.

Kendall Smith - I would only want to comment on the specifics. They are not delineated here. Clearly, the UVAP needs to be consistent with state law.

Estelle Clifton - I support the broad concept of mixed use. Other communities have utilized innovative designations to develop attractive, walkable and diverse neighborhoods. The City of Ukiah is working on creating its own mixed-use criteria. What I do not support is "free-for-all" zoning designation that makes it easier for developers to push their own projects through, mostly at county expense. We need to focus on building truly mixed-use community areas. Large development projects need to be considered apart from the UVAP process.

John McCowen - The County is considering adopting "mixed-use" zoning for specific areas, including the Masonite site, Lover's Lane, North State Street and the Brush Street triangle but has not defined specifically what those designations mean or just what will be allowed. When the revised UVAP and the draft UVAP EIR are made public the mixed use designations will need to be scrutinized to make sure they are not window dressing to allow inappropriate zoning changes that lack public support. For example, it is likely that "Mixed-use Masonite" will allow for 500,000 to 700,000 square feet of retail development along with smaller allowances for residential and light industrial, with no guarantee that anything other than retail will be built.

Dolly Brown - No. The STSC has offered to take on this task. The BOS shot it down.

Carre Brown - I believe the County can establish new zoning designations, or sub-classifications within traditional zones, even if the term doesn't exist currently in local or state law. The public will need to evaluate the standards for the allowed uses established in a new zoning designation prior to adoption. By law zoning ordinances must be reasonable and associated with public welfare, both local and regional.

Ukiah Morrison - I am in favor of changes so long as they adhere to the democratic process required of the proposed change. I am confident we can come to some compromises on the matter, but would like to reserve my opinion until I know more.

21. Do you believe state agencies have fully and properly investigated the toxics and contamination on the old Masonite site? Please explain.

Paula Deeter - The EIR comment phase did not seem to have the same response from the Valley constituents as the Coastal community seemed to have for the GP Mill Site EIR. With the information that has resurfaced in regard to RETECH, it seems that a slower pace to the investigation is prudent. I am concerned that all of the information in regard to toxic materials, both at Masonite and the GP Mill Site has not been fully disclosed to the public.

Kendall Smith - At the Georgia Pacific Mill Site in Fort Bragg the issue of toxics investigation is on-going

Estelle Clifton - No, demolition activities have not been sufficiently monitored for compliance with BMPs and public safety precautions as evidenced by the trucking of debris in open trucks past the elementary school. Currently Water Quality has not properly investigated undocumented contamination, nor have they tested all the zones for soil contamination. The county should request, the more qualified, Department of Toxic Substances Control take over as the lead to ensure appropriate safe remediation of this likely superfund site.

John McCowen - I believe more can and should be done to assure the public that toxic issues on the site have been properly investigated and resolved. As a member of the City Council I voted in favor of requesting that the State Department of Toxic Substances Control provide oversight for the Masonite clean-up because they have the expertise and would have done so at no cost to the County.

Carre Brown - I understand it has been investigated. I am not sure if these investigations are ongoing such as monitoring wells with periodic samplings. I know state agencies are responsible for the monitoring, but I have not seen any reports.

Ukiah Morrison - No. Not because I don't have the highest regard for the claims that all is well, but because I am a realist and know that "Clean Up" of Toxic Contamination usually goes to the lowest bidder and is often expedited to reduce cost of overtime and overhead. It wasn't an economic interest to do a complete clean up. Consensus is that if you tested in various locations throughout the property, you would eventually find stuff we wish hadn't been there in the first place. Not necessarily in mass quantities, but heavy metals don't need to be in large visible amounts.

22. What does the phrase, "How do we grow without wrecking the place", mean to you?

Paula Deeter- It means that we, as a community and an entire county, compromise between what land use allows and what is truly an intelligent use of the property. Encouraging well-done projects and publicizing them is already done. It is a step in the right direction, but we can do more by reviewing outdated requirements and having a voice when we know that our resources are limited.

Kendall Smith - Thoughtful decisions that consider the future drive the present.

Estelle Clifton - Our individual lifestyles affect our ability to sustain our local natural resources. Growth when done in a sustainable manner can benefit the place we live. When we are careless and do not sustain our local resources (ground water, air quality etc.) we are diminishing the quality of our local environment in which our lives depend.

John McCowen - We have always had a moderate level of growth, but we are at a crossroads where failure to properly plan for growth will result in sprawl, congestion and crime. To avoid "wrecking the place" we must have regional planning and City/County cooperation that avoids urban sprawl and protects agriculture while allowing for new housing and economic development that enhances, instead of diminishes, our current quality of life. We need to put planning first and identify the carrying capacity of the valley in terms of water, sewer, traffic circulation and infrastructure as well as the financial feasibility of constructing appropriate mitigations.

Dolly Brown - Growth is the bugaboo in that sentence. Why have we all assumed that growth is somehow the essential? We can economically improve our lot through efficiency, self-sufficiency and sustainability without having to grow in terms of number of housing starts, ag land cleared and shopping malls fleshed out.

Carre Brown - Choices we make now regarding land use will determine the quality of life in Mendocino County well into the future. We need to plan for the appropriate use of land for housing, agriculture, other industries, businesses and recreation. Individual citizens, businesses, elected leaders and government agencies must work together to ensure that our residents have an attractive, high-quality place to live and work. Without careful consideration of growth management strategies, taxpayers will be burdened with higher costs and the environment of our communities will degrade. The diverse groups within our community need to focus on how growth can happen and move forward in a manner that provides the greatest benefits for the County today and for future generations. Mendocino County needs to grow economically to survive. However, management of growth and where it is placed is essential in order not to exceed infrastructure capacity. Besides the critical shortage of water supply, other problems of our deficient infrastructure include limited sewer hook-ups, housing, and streets sufficient to handle increased traffic circulation. I am of the opinion that making land use decisions only on the basis of projected tax revenue rather than on the basis of planning principles is not good government or sound planning.

Ukiah Morrison - For me it means that we will enlighten up and realize that grape production for wine is threatening the very existence of every live being in the County. Just because some social ill has been inappropriately labeled "legal". Thousands of people die each year from alcohol related deaths, and we are responsible for a percentage of that number. The cattle industry wants to play the shell game on environmentalism by implicating the bio-fuel industry is responsible for making global warming worse. The argument doesn't hold but works as a distraction to those who can't think this through. The reality is that the cattle industry doesn't want to draw attention to its hypocrisy. They don't want us to come to conclude that the amount of corn and or hay produced to feed and bed these animals far outstripped the environment of the food for people and the land to grow it on. Does anyone know just how much corn or water it takes to feed and raise just one cow? How about one cow and calf that is nursing? Even more! How many acres of corn are required to feed one cow and one calf for one year? How much of the total mass of the plant used to produce that corn? The majority of the water used to grow the corn doesn't even get used in the food chain or industrial chain. It just gets used. Then figure how much total water is being wasted to feed the next downer cow. The one that was given all the antibiotics to fight off the infections of our lack of compassion for these magnificent creatures. We should be ashamed of ourselves. On top of that, corn sucks! It isn't really that good of a food source. Hemp however, is one of the most nutritious foods on the planet. Granted, we don't grow much corn here, but the point is the same. We need cooperation as opposed to competition. Thank you for asking.