LAKEPORT >> As the California primary election approaches on March 5, candidates for the District 4 Supervisor seat are already preparing candidate statements to inform Lake County residents of their positions regarding a number of issues they feel can be of importance to many voters.
Chief of Police Brad Rasmussen was the first candidate to file his candidacy in March. He noted that has worked in law enforcement for the past three decades and currently still serves as Lakeport chief of police.
“I have had the honor of serving as the chief of police for the past 13 years,” Rasmussen said. “Over the last 34 years, I’ve dedicated myself to being a peace officer, with a substantial 22 years of that period spent in supervisory, management and leadership roles.”
Chief Rasmussen currently resides in Lake County and noted he is proud to call Lake County home for the prior 34 years. With a history of over three decades of public service, Chief Rasmussen pointed out he has acquired extensive knowledge about the community, its people and the challenges the city has faced.
“Beyond my law enforcement role, I actively participate in the executive management team and the leadership of the city of Lakeport’s Emergency operations,” he said.
He has also served in leadership positions in two nonprofit community benefit organizations, designed to improve the lives of the city’s children and the community. “My aim is to bring this wealth of experience and community understanding to the Board of Supervisors to foster strong relationships and collaborate with all agencies, organizations and the community for the betterment of Lake County, he said.”
There are a number of critical issues facing Lake County he noted, yet he said his main objective is to focus on enhancing public safety, which includes law enforcement, fire prevention and emergency and disaster response. “I will concentrate on community and economic development, transparency and accountability,” he said. I am committed to engaging the public, actively listening to their concerns, and making decisions that prioritize the needs of our residents and the well-being of Lake County as a whole.”
Among the complex issues in District 4, he noted that the issues of homelessness, mental illness and addiction stand out. “This issue not only affects those directly involved but also impacts our entire community, businesses and the local economy,” Chief Rasmussen, said. “Drawing on my extensive knowledge, education and experience in addressing this issue, I will work diligently to seek community input and collaborate with agencies, organizations, to address this challenging problem.”
Rasmussen also singled out wildfires as a pressing concern for Lake County. “My number one campaign priority is public safety, which includes fire prevention and response,” he said. “Leveraging my extensive experience in public safety, I will work collaboratively with government entities, local agencies, organizations, but most importantly our community to mitigate and respond to the recurring effects of wildfires.”
He added that in his 34 year career in public safety he has been involved in many responses to fires. “I grew up in a family who served in wildland fire response and suppression and continue to have family members serving in this field which has given me institutional knowledge of the effects wildfires have on communities.”
Meanwhile, the issue of vacant government positions is a multifaceted challenge. “I’ve developed successful programs and partnerships to address this problem in my current role- and I will bring this experience to the board” he said. “My approach includes outreach to the community, partnering with local schools and colleges to create recruitment programs, and ensuring that appropriate pay and benefits are maintained to attract and retain talented individuals. To keep these jobs filled, we also need to have other strong community programs, activities and availability of housing.”
Yet another significant concern is improving outreach and engagement with the people of Lake County Rasmussen explained. “I plan to be easily accessible, reaching out to the community proactively, and making it convenient for them to provide input and navigate the government system. Caring for Clear Lake and improving infrastructure are also important issues.”
Rasmussen added, “I am committed to bringing a positive and approachable attitude to county government. With decades of experience in building relationships and resolving complex issues, my dedication and commitment to improving our community and the lives of our residents will remain unwavering.”
Chief Rasmussen’s campaign website is: www.bradforsupervisor.org and campaign Facebook Page is: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550776820937
