On Friday, March 9, E.J. Crandell firmed up his decision to run for Lake County Supervisor, District 3.
In a press release, E.J. Crandell said, “With the news that Supervisor Jim Steele will not seek re-election, I respectfully ask the people of Lake County’s 3rd District to consider my qualifications and background to serve as their next representative on the County Board of Supervisors.”
Known as “E.J.,” Crandell is a long-time resident of District 3. He attended Lucerne Elementary and Upper Lake High, where his son is currently enrolled, playing high school football and baseball.
After graduating high school Crandell served in the United States Army as a phase team sergeant. He was deployed to Qayyarah West, Iraq, in Operation Iraqi Freedom with the “Screaming Eagles” of the 101st Aviation Airborne Division. He served eight years and was honorably discharged in 2006.
There are five distinct towns — Upper Lake, Nice, Lucerne, Glen Haven and Clearlake Oaks — that line the North Shore, as well as the three off-highway communities of Spring Valley, Lake Pillsbury and Blue Lakes.
“It’s a big job, something I’ve come to more fully appreciate while serving as Lake County’s Planning Commissioner for District 3,” Crandell said. “I have a sound grasp of the land use issues that are such an important part of our future. There’s so much to consider — from the management of cannabis, to zoning requirements that impact our ancient and beautiful lake, to the neighborhood protections so vital to our children and the elderly — proper land use decisions are imperative to our quality of life.”
As Tribal Chair of the Robinson Band of Pomo Indians, Crandell brings a unique experience and skill set to the table. He’s had the rare experience of observing and working in both tribal and local governments.
“There are differences and nuances to consider. Most importantly, it is through positive working relationships that the tough work gets done. If I am elected, my relationships with local leaders will serve the community well. Working closely with County leaders on inter-governmental relations, I have supported activities that benefit the broader community. My leadership approach is inclusive, every voice matters and no effort is too small,” he said.
Under Crandell’s leadership, the Robinson Rancheria tribe paid $4,158,265 in debt due to prior mismanagement. Currently, Crandell supervises a workforce of 355 employees, a mix of tribal and non-tribal members.
“The need for jobs in our impoverished communities is great and I am proud we can provide opportunities,” he said.
Crandell said believes the unused buildings and ample natural resources along the heavily traveled north shore highway are the path to more vibrant and healthy communities.
“One of my priorities will be to work towards friendlier leasing and building terms to open the door to more businesses and tap the entrepreneurial spirit of our communities,” he said. “Revitalizing Lake County as a destination economy is key to our success.”
He pointed out that Clear Lake will be a focus. As a longtime resident of the County and Pomo native, the lake has a unique value to him.
“With sadness I have watched neglectful land practices that have harmed our lake and ultimately factored heavily in our economic instability,” he said. “We can’t afford to dismiss the importance of the lake to our economic recovery. Thanks to the recent efforts of Supervisor Steele and other leaders there is hope. I will monitor carefully the promise of new money that has been made by our legislators and State Agency representatives as well as the implementation of management practices so vital to the lake’s recovery.”
Crandell earned an AA degree in 2004 from American Intercontinental University. He is a few units shy of achieving a BA degree and plans to squeeze in the time to complete his degree.
To help launch his campaign, Crandell has scheduled a campaign kick-off event is scheduled for April 8. In the meantime the community is invited to meet the candidate at the Elders Native Craft Fair on Saturday, March 17, 9 a.m. — 6 p.m. at the Robinson Rancheria Conference Center, 1545 E. Hwy 20, in Nice.
“There is much work to be done and I welcome your ideas and support,” Crandell said. “Drop by on Saturday, if you can, I’d love to meet you.”
The Primary Election is June 5.
