With a diverse career background and a perspective as a Southern California transplant, Chris Read arrived a decade ago to Lake County.
He maintains he will bring a community-centered approach to the current system of governance of the Board of Supervisors.
“Growing up in a prosperous area gave me a sense of vision for what Lake County can achieve by focusing on our assets, particularly the Lake. I have seen how strategic planning, investment, and community involvement can lead to prosperity, he said. “And I’m eager to bring these insights to the board.”
Read has served the community in various capacities, which endowed him with an understanding of its different facets. As an elementary school teacher, he was engaged in the education sector, an area he called critical to the future of Lake County.
“What I learned is the struggles parents have in this community,” he said. “Working at a CPA firm in Santa Barbara has given me a strong financial background, and experience in a variety of fields from campaigns to philanthropy. I delt with financial planning and resource allocation, which will be invaluable in managing the county’s budget. My experience working at the CPA firm for the Santa Barbara – Homeless Shelter taught me about social issues in our community and the importance of strategic, compassionate responses to these challenges.”
In his current role as a property manager for a senior community, he has met with many residents. “My experience has given me an understanding of the housing needs in our community, particularly among our senior population. We need more services for our seniors,” he said.
As a father of three boys and a stepfather to one more, he has insight into the challenges and rewards of raising a family in this area. “This experience deepens my understanding of issues and the quality of life of families in the area. I understand these issues and as a member of the BOS I would ensure that the needs of families are considered when making decisions shaping the future of Lake County,” he said.
Read aims to bring an original, community-focus to the BOS he notes. “It is one which no other candidate possesses,” he said. “The other candidates are all sidestepping within the current system of governance. I am committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of every community member, working closely with law enforcement, fire and community leaders. And I will advocate for comprehensive safety measures, improved emergency services, crime prevention initiatives and enhanced disaster preparedness plans.”
He added, “I will prioritize transparency by listening to resident concerns and provide updates on decisions taking place on their behalf. Together we can build a county government that represents the interests of its people.”
On the topic of prosperity, “I will work to attract new businesses, support existing ones, and tend to an environment conducive to innovation and job creation. The biggest asset in the county, is Clearlake he contends. “Clearlake water rights and clean water are what will lead to prosperity,” he said. “The county was once a destination for many, not just bass fishermen and I see a way to make this a reality again.”
Read grew up in Southern California. He previously worked as an elementary school teacher, yet currently works in the hospitality industry as well as a property manager.
Read says he wants to address every issue in the county, especially District 4, where roadways warrant attention. But a big issue is saving Lake Pillsbury. “It is a treasure of the county,” he said. “The lake is a resource to help fight forest fires, a habitat that must be protected, if the dams come down, Its loss would be a loss of property tax revenue in the immediate area around the lake. This effects all districts, and I wish more efforts were taking place within the BOS.”
He encourages readers to go to read4supervisor.com to find out more.
