To my Lake County neighbors,
I would be honored to have your vote in the coming election for District 1 Supervisor.
I am passionate about helping our County and its people, and have the dedication, work ethic, knowledge and skills to lead our community to a successful future.
I have a proven track record for getting things done, and that's important when it comes to fighting for resources at the State and Federal levels.
I'm motivated by the highest principles of public service, and have the judgment to make decisions benefiting our community now and in the future.
Finally, I have a positive attitude and no personal interest at stake.
Susanne's Stand on Issues affecting District 1 and Lake County
| Agriculture | Climate Change | Environment |
| Growth | Ten Principles of Smart Growth | Health Care |
| Indian Gaming | In-Home Supportive Services | Jobs and Labor |
| Quagga Mussels | Tourism | Water |
Agriculture
Agriculture has always been a mainstay of Lake County life, and though farming and ranching are changing and evolving, they continue to be essential parts of our economy. Agriculture provides jobs and innovative tourism opportunities, and is central to maintaining our rural lifestyle.
Keeping ag healthy and thriving is absolutely vital to everyone – both those who farm and those who eat! But accomplishing this in the complex, competitive world of the 21st century is not always so simple. I believe we must work collaboratively to find innovative ways to help support our ag community, such as increasing consumer participation in farming. In addition, it's important that our land-use policies, zoning ordinances and County codes give farming families appropriate consideration. And as always, we must pay close attention to water and energy policies as they relate to farming and ranching.
My past activities demonstrate a concern for agriculture. I'm from a farming family and grew up understanding the values and sensibilities of people who make their living from the land. My grandfather was a Yolo County farm advisor and a founding member of CA Farm Bureau Federation; my father worked as a seed salesman in the Salinas Valley, and my cousin farms over 2,100 acres of wheat and rice in Sutter and Sacramento counties.
I worked for a large grower-owned farming and food processing cooperate in the Central Valley as manager of community relations and public affairs. In Lake County, I'm an associate member of the Lake County Farm Bureau and participate in the Lake County Sustainable Agriculture Forum.
It's difficult to earn a living by farming. So many issues to manage – water, weather, markets that are unpredictable and overhead costs that seem to go nowhere but up. It's not surprising that many farmers opt to sell their land because farming doesn't seem viable and their heirs don't see a future in farming.
As Supervisor, I will promote Farmers' Markets and other "community supported agriculture" to help nurture our cherished farming tradition and improve the local economy. I'd like to see stronger links between purchasers (stores, businesses, restaurants, schools) and farm producers so Lake County residents can buy fruits, vegetables and other items from local growers both large and small. By working together in this way, we'll all eat healthier food, reduce costs, and cut down on fuel use, traffic and emissions. I will support the community-based groups that are already working to strengthen the dialog between growers and consumers.
Besides connecting local farmers and consumers, I'd like to see Lake County aggressively promoted as an agritourism destination attracting local residents and regional visitors, as well as national and international travelers. Many European and Asian tourists express their interest in visiting working ranches, vineyards and farming operations in the American West, and Lake County has so much to offer them: spectacular scenery, country atmosphere, clean air and friendly population, plus many recreational opportunities on our wonderful Clear Lake.
As Supervisor, I will advocate strongly for production of a seasonal guide to Lake County farms similar to the Sonoma County Farm Trails promotion. We should also be hosting media tours and other public relations activities, along with Internet and traditional advertising, to encourage regional cultural and historical itineraries.
The county should staff a "Tourism Advisory Committee" with volunteer professionals who could take Lake County agriculture "on the road" to suburban schools and civic groups. Women in Agriculture, an outstanding group with positive ideas and energy, is a possible partner.top
Climate Change
Global climate change brings local responsibilities to reduce our carbon footprint. I strongly support the 2007 decision to participate in the Cool Counties initiative, and as Supervisor will work to carry out the obligations that Lake County assumed by signing on to this program.
First, I will work with staff to design a comprehensive assessment of the County’s own energy use, identify and implement ways to reduce consumption, then use my professional training to help publicize these achievements as broadly as possible, and to encourage businesses and private citizens to adopt similar measures.
Besides spotlighting our achievements to date such as solar power at the jail, animal shelter, and sewer plant, this public relations campaign could include ongoing and consistent communications about what citizens can do; organization of special events focused on climate change; participation in Earth Day; engaging youth through essay contests ("Why my county is cool") and art displays ("How my family stays 'cool' by saving energy.”)
In the meantime, we should continue to expand public transportation in Lake County, encourage carpooling, and extend our network of bike paths.top
Environment
Just like everyone who comes to Lake County, I'm struck with the beauty of our landscapes by day and a sky full of stars at night. I'm also aware of how vulnerable the soils, forests, streams, wildlife and especially Clear Lake are to the forces of human activity.
"The Environment" is a broad portfolio of subjects and I'm well aware of how important each one of them is to the citizens of Lake County. My intention as Supervisor is to energetically collaborate with the many good people who are already putting their time and expertise into addressing these issues. Everyone has a stake in a clean, healthy environment and everyone can be engaged and can contribute to long-term solutions.
I believe the best policy development and implementation takes place when the talents of everyone concerned are brought to bear. I will strive to bring together county employees, community leaders, and organizations such as the California Rural Water Association and the Farm Bureau, and government experts including the California State Water Resources Control Board and Bureau of Land Management to help preserve our environment.
What are the most urgent environmental issues on the table today? I have heard the opinions of people throughout the County, and agree with their list of concerns: protecting our precious ground water and air quality, managing waste water and storm runoff, preserving open space, and reducing the danger of wildfire.
As Supervisor, I look forward to applying my significant experience and knowledge of environmental issues to Lake County's benefit:
- As public affairs manager for the largest California grower-owned farming and food processing cooperative, I wrote the organization's environmental policy and promoted the co-op's environmental consciousness and activities via print, TV, videotape, and site visits.
- I partnered with PG&E to secure national network coverage of our manufacturing energy efficiency at S&W Fine Foods processing plant. Local media covered a 65,000-kilowatt cogeneration power plant that used peach and apricot pits, almond and walnut shells, and wood scraps to produce enough electricity and steam to run the plant. This project also received commendation from Stanislaus County Air Pollution Control.
- I partnered with the California Waterfowl Association to promote a tomato cannery waste-water project that irrigated grassland, enhancing existing habitats to benefit wildlife. The results included 312 acres of wetlands where pintail ducks found food and ground-nesting pheasants found shelter, and placement of wood duck nests on farmers' property. California Farm Bureau televised the wood duck nest program.
- Also while working for the farmer cooperative, I identified and promoted the organization's many efforts to protect and enhance the environment. I collaborated with several departments, from those responsible for crop production, pesticide use, and transportation, to the repair and re-use of wooden pallets.
- Additionally, I made presentations on the importance of "environmental communications" to plant managers and members of national and state councils of farmer cooperatives.
- At PG&E, I was the company's environmental spokesperson. I handled air and water quality issues, hazardous materials, facility licensing, transmission line siting, electrical network equipment failures, power plant explosion and pond overflows.
- I developed communications on removal of PCB-filled electric capacitors; alternative energy like wind and solar; protection of the Antioch Dunes to safeguard the Evening Primrose and the endangered Lange's Metalmark butterfly; importance of public transit; energy conservation; rubberized electric lines to protect Richardson Bay pelicans; and health effects of electromagnetic fields, etc. I was on the team that got the first water permit to operate Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant.
- I collaborated with all appropriate federal and state environmental agencies, and PG&E and consultant biologists, hydrologists, land and forest managers, and other experts.top
Growth
Growth is a natural part of life and a natural process for a community, but there is a big difference between free-for-all expansion and measured, carefully-planned growth. I don't think anyone in the County wants to see strip malls and the hopscotch, sprawl-type development that is so rampant in other areas of the state.
There will always be a tug of war between those who pursue profitable development opportunities and those who want to preserve the status quo. A sensible balance lies somewhere between the two points of view. And, fortunately, we have some powerful tools to help us find that balance. Our new General Plan, which is currently in the process of being finalized, will be a very effective guidepost for making decisions about growth. I respect the work that the County's Community Development Department has done to develop the new plan, using input from the community and the Planning Commission.
One of the key principles of the new plan is the concept of "smart growth" to provide guidelines for favorable outcomes. Smart Growth concepts focus on the design and form of development, rather than the quantity, and include creation of distinctive, walkable neighborhoods, preservation of natural and regional character, and direction of new development toward existing communities. These objectives are promoted by the Community Growth Boundaries incorporated in the new General Plan, and which I strongly support. Using these guidelines, we'll avoid unchecked sprawl and help our existing communities to develop as strong neighborhood centers with distinctive characters.
Along with smart growth, I feel one of the most important objectives in land use is the preservation of farmland and natural resources. I am committed to making sure we don't relinquish our precious farm and pastureland for development without following the proper procedures as outlined in the General Plan and Community Area Plans and implemented by the Zoning Ordinance. As Supervisor, I will support the work of the Community Planning Department and Planning Commission in abiding by these guidelines.top
Ten Principles of Smart Growth
Managing growth in a positive way includes smart growth principles, which I support. Here is a list of the ten principles of smart growth. They focus on the design and form of development, rather than the quantity. Most principles have been “best practices” for planners and developers for decades.
- Create a range of housing opportunities and choices
- Create walkable neighborhoods
- Encourage community and stakeholder collaboration
- Foster distinctive, attractive communities with a strong sense of place
- Make development decisions predictable, fair and cost effective
- Mix land uses
- Preserve open space, farmland, natural beauty and critical environmental areas
- Provide a variety of transportation choices
- Strengthen and direct development toward existing communities
- Take advantage of compact building design
Fulton, W. (2005). Guide to California Planning. Point Arena, CA: Solano Press.top
Health Care
Finding affordable, accessible health care is a major challenge facing families today. In talking with people in my district and throughout the County, I'm aware of how dire the situation can be. Some families are forced to decide between food and medicine, or are forced to only allow one family member at a time to receive dental care. I'm particularly concerned for the seniors and young people in our community who do not have adequate access to care at these critical times of their lives.
I am prepared to collaborate with community leaders and County staff to help find solutions. I have spent a major part of my corporate career in medical centers and health care industries, where I worked with patient groups, physicians, policy-makers and suppliers, and learned about health care from many perspectives. I will use my expertise to support rural healthcare, especially access to care, for the families of Lake County.
My community relations work at Alta Bates Hospital and Kaiser Permanente brought me face-to-face with the complexities of health care delivery and the needs of patients both at a local and national level. Part of my responsibility at the hospitals was to communicate with the media and help the general public understand complex, technical concepts.
At Roche Molecular Systems, I interfaced with biotechnology research and development professionals and supported the international distribution of viral load testing products for HIV, hepatitis C and other sexually transmitted diseases. Through my work as liaison with patient groups, I gained a profound knowledge of the difficulties faced by consumers. This was balanced by my work with advocates and elected officials in Sacramento, Washington, the European Union and beyond.top
Indian Gaming
Our County Administration has done a great job so far in cultivating a favorable relationship with our Tribal neighbors. I will do my best to continue that tradition, keeping an open mind to synergies that will benefit everyone in the area.
Besides helping our local Tribes stay strong and self-sufficient, Indian gaming provides an overall benefit to our local economy and County budget. The Tribes also contribute to many community programs and activities.
Casinos are major employers and are a keystone of the county's marketing program. They attract visitors from all over the State, and since much of our economy depends on tourism, casinos are a valuable addition to the mix of activities Lake County offers.
My hope is that people who initially come here to visit the casinos will be moved by the beauty and variety within Lake County and will decide to return to sample its other attractions.
Until this year, when the state budget eliminated the Indian Gaming Special Distribution Fund, our county received more than $500,000 annually. I promise to work with County staff, the other members of the Board of Supervisors, and our elected representatives in Sacramento to restore this funding. top
In-Home Supportive Services
Choosing someone to trust with your health is a very personal decision. Patients and their families need to do what's right for them. I believe that people are capable of making sensible decisions about who they want to care for them, and respect their personal choices in these matters. I do not support adding another layer of administrative oversight for background checks or drug testing for In-Home Support Service workers.top
Jobs and Labor
I respect the hard-working people of Lake County, whether Union or non-Union, blue-collar or white-collar, urban or agricultural. As Supervisor, I will use my extensive business experience and knowledge to benefit the employees and contractors of District 1 and all of Lake County.
My own union background includes a stint as labor press editor and staff member for International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 1245, Vacaville, and as a part-time business instructor at Yuba College’s Clearlake campus. I currently belong to the American Federation of Teachers, Local 4952, and I am proud that my campaign has received an endorsement from the Operating Engineers, Local 3.
I also recognize that individuals who start and run small businesses are doing more than living the American dream: they are also stoking the engine that drives our local economy, creating jobs, and improving our quality of life. Free or low-cost support for small business is available in Lake County, but businesses don’t always get the help they need to prosper. I’ll work to improve these connections.
Finally, I want to help create new opportunities for young Lake County entrepreneurs through a Junior Achievement Program that teaches business and economics to high school students. I will also facilitate the connection between the business community and young workers, including developing internships, work experience programs and job shadowing that prepares young people for the work world.top
Quagga Mussels
An invasion of quagga and zebra mussels into Clear Lake and other local waterways could be catastrophic, creating major and widespread economic impacts as well as wreaking ecological havoc. We don’t yet know whether our community was able to move fast enough to stop the spread of these invasive pests. I promise to work actively with the public-private coalition that has formed to address this threat.
I am very impressed with Water Resources Program Coordinator Carolyn Ruttan's efforts to educate the public about the mussels and consequences of their becoming established here, and applaud the quick and effective mobilization of our community against the mussel problem, with input from all sectors – State and County staff, the business community, the universities and many concerned individuals.
It's an example of how well we can work together when we align our efforts toward a common goal. I will encourage and support this team approach wholeheartedly as we fight this major threat.top
Tourism
Lake County has long been known as a wonderful vacation destination; the treasured summer memories of generations of people have been forged here. Tourism has evolved throughout the years and of course has had its ups and downs. As we progress into the 21st Century, I see us growing our tourism base with a new vision in mind: one that showcases our County's core assets and expands on the traditional definition of a tourist destination. I understand the link between tourism and the long-term strength of our economy, and will fight to enhance and improve our tourism sector. I will make sure we explore the many avenues open to us, and there are many:
- The appeal of agritourism is widespread throughout the world and growing every year. Lake County is the perfect spot to develop ranches and vineyards for tourism; I will support well-planned agritourism projects.
- People love the charming, old-time feel of our downtown areas. I will advocate for the continued careful restoration of our centers for shopping, dining and strolling.
- A sparkling clean lake and the serene beauty of Mount Konocti and surrounding mountains are truly unique Lake County features. I will work tirelessly to help ensure they remain healthy and accessible. I strongly support the efforts of the public-private coalition led by Public Services Director Kim Clymire to finalize the acquisition of major acreage on Mt. Konocti for the public's use.
- I support the development and specific marketing of "Gateway South," spotlighting historical, cultural and agricultural tourism from Robert Louis Stevenson State Park and Middletown in the south to Anderson Marsh State Historic Park and Clear Lake in the north. Besides promoting the Lake County tourist economy as a whole, this approach offers particular benefits to District 1, which has tended to lag behind the rest of the County. At a recent regional tourism workshop, cosponsored by North Coast Tourism Council, California Cultural and Heritage Tourism Council, and Lake County Marketing Program, I presented a District 1 driving itinerary focused on historical, cultural, and agriculture destinations.
I also support the proposed Berryessa Snow Mountain National Conservation Area, which would establish collaborative management policies and structures over federal lands in the eastern part of Lake County and thereby enhance environmental safeguards and recreational potential while benefiting the tourist economies of “gateway communities” from Middletown to Upper Lake.top
Water
Practically nothing is as important to any Westerner as water. In my professional life, I focused extensively on water issues, and the study of California water – its management, quality and accessibility – has always been one of my greatest concerns. In addition to being involved with local watershed stewardship groups and attending California Rural Water Association conferences, I have considerable hands-on water education and experience. As Supervisor, I will use my expertise to protect Lake County's natural resources, especially water, now and in the future.
Our zoning ordinance and new General Plan contain strong provisions designed to protect our water resources for the benefit of people as well as the environment. I will support the Community Development Department and the Planning Commission in their efforts to enforce conscientious, careful water management.
My water-related professional experience is very extensive. As communications director for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 1245, I covered water industry issues impacting Modesto and Turlock Irrigation districts. During my ten years with PG&E, I participated in a technical working group responsible for the utility's water quality and availability. Working extensively with hydrologists, biologists, land/forest managers, government agencies and attorneys, I did the following:
- Created public participation program at Bass Lake for relicensing of Crane Valley Hydroelectric Plant.
- Communicated technical information to the media and general public during nine months of hearings with the Regional Water Quality Control Board in San Luis Obispo to obtain Diablo Nuclear Power Plant's first operating water permit.
- Served as liaison with fishing groups and media on Delta fish losses at Pittsburg Power Plant and PG&E's release of Striped Bass yearlings into the Delta.
- As public affairs manager for California's largest grower-owned agricultural cooperative, I promoted 312-acres of wildlife habitat and wetlands enhanced by recycled water at a tomato cannery in Los Banos. I also provided communications for a water board hearing when an olive plant wastewater system in Madera failed, contaminating private wells.
Campaign Literature about Susanne
Susanne La Faver for Supervisor on November 4, 2008 (English, Spanish)