Could a new day of political civility and consensus have dawned in Lake County? That was the happy possibility that leaped to mind on reading Randy Ridgel”s letter (“Irreplaceable if lost,” Readers” Views) in the Oct. 14 Record-Bee, because this time I found myself agreeing with him in nearly every particular.
Yes indeed, vigilance is necessary if our community is to avoid becoming a “sloppy, miniature Los Angeles.” Yes indeed, the friendly atmosphere and rural values that we enjoy are rare and precious assets, meriting strenuous efforts to preserve them. (Randy: I”m looking forward to hearing you support my comments on these subjects before the Board of Supervisors or Planning Commission.)
I also agree very strongly that reliance on out-of-county donations tends to warp the electoral process and shift control from the hands of our own citizenry — where it belongs — to outsiders whose concerns might not center on the well-being of Lake County.
Fortunately the election laws contain a powerful check on this hazard, by requiring frequent submission of detailed campaign finance information, and making that information available to the public so that ballots can be cast accordingly. The facts and figures for all local contests from School Board to Supervisor (current through Sept. 30) are on file at Registrar of Voters Diane Fridley”s office.
In at least one case a glance at these numbers reveals a striking contrast in funding sources between two candidates who have received approximately equal — and very large — amounts of money. For a graphic display of that contrast it”s not even necessary to make a trip to Lakeport: just visit www.lakelive.org/contributions.htm to see for yourself. Curious voters without computer access are welcome to give me a call at 994-1931 to hear the facts.
Victoria Brandon
Lower Lake
Sierra Club Lake Group Chair
