Not a Letterman list and in no particular order, here are ten reasons I'll be casting my vote for Eric Hammer for the County Board of Supervisors for the 5th District:
1. He’s local. Eric lives in the San Lorenzo Valley. He was born and raised here, went to the local schools, played in the local parks. Now he’s raising his family here. He drives on our roads, shops in our stores, and enjoys and suffers all of the same things the rest of us in SLV enjoy and suffer. I like the fact that I see him all over the Valley, if I want to complain about something or share my opinion I can do it in person.
2. He’s a Democrat. Eric shares the predominant values of the community regarding the environment, human rights, and economic justice.
3. He has a work ethic. Eric is not afraid to roll up his sleeves and go to work. He doesn’t ask anyone to do anything he’s not willing and ready to do himself.
4. He’s realistic. Eric understands that you can’t just call Sacramento and expect someone else to solve a problem.
5. He’s transparent. You might not always agree with him but you can count on him to let you know how he feels and why.
6. He respects the past but represents the future. Eric knows how close SLV came to becoming overrun by developers, how fragile the watershed is and how much the river needs to be protected. He turns 44 on Saturday.
7. He’s respected by the community. Eric has stood for election twice and won both times with overwhelming support. His colleagues elected him chair and all support his election to Supervisor. State Assemblymembers Bill Monning and Luis Alejo have endorsed him. All five directors of the SLV Water District support him as does the Superintendent of Schools, a number of the current fire chiefs and district trustees as well as a host of other local community leaders. Check out the partial list of endorsers here:
http://www.hammerforsupervisor.com/?q=whos_with_us
8. He has a vision. As a builder, he understands the need to upgrade our existing housing stock to make it more environmentally sound.
9. He’s pragmatic. He knows you build from the ground up not the top down.
10. He’s collaborative. He understands that you have to bring people together in conversation in order to move forward and that not everyone, himself included, can always get exactly what they want.
Showing posts with label Eric Hammer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Eric Hammer. Show all posts
Monday, June 4, 2012
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Taking The Fifth: McPherson Sets Campaign Fundraising Record
Financial disclosure statements made public last week show that Bruce McPherson, candidate for County Supervisor, has amassed over $118,000 in campaign contributions, more than twice his nearest rival for the 5th District seat and more than all of the other candidates in the other two district races combined.
The former Sentinel editor has easily broken all spending records for a local Santa Cruz County campaign however little of the money raised seems to have come from voters in the 5th District. Less than $3,000 came from residents in the communities along the Hwy 9 corridor: Felton, Ben Lomond, Brookdale and Boulder Creek. Scotts Valley residents account for less than 5% of his total.
Eric Hammer’s campaign disclosed $47,023 raised through the filing deadline of May 17th. Zach Friend running in the 2nd District reported raising $49,223 and John Leopold in the 1st District had contributions totaling $21,173.
McPherson, the Pasatiempo Republican and former state legislator, is hoping to become the first Santa Cruz resident ever to represent the predominantly San Lorenzo Valley District. He would also be the first Republican elected since 1978 when Pat Liberty won the seat in a recall election with 35% of the vote.
Since entering politics in 1993, McPherson has competed in over a dozen races, raising close to $7 million in the process. In 2002, while serving in the State Senate he ran for and won the Republican primary for Lt Governor and despite raising $2.7 million he lost in the general election. In 2006, as the appointed, incumbent Secretary of State, he ran for and won the GOP’s primary but again, after raising over $2 million, he lost in the general election.
The Supervisors election will likely be decided on Tuesday. Although four candidates names will appear on the ballot it has become a two person race between McPherson and Hammer. Susan Weber never actively campaigned but withdrew too late for her name to be removed. Bill Smallman has been actively seeking support but seems to have gained little traction. To avoid a November runoff a candidate needs 50% plus one vote to become Supervisor.
The former Sentinel editor has easily broken all spending records for a local Santa Cruz County campaign however little of the money raised seems to have come from voters in the 5th District. Less than $3,000 came from residents in the communities along the Hwy 9 corridor: Felton, Ben Lomond, Brookdale and Boulder Creek. Scotts Valley residents account for less than 5% of his total.
Eric Hammer’s campaign disclosed $47,023 raised through the filing deadline of May 17th. Zach Friend running in the 2nd District reported raising $49,223 and John Leopold in the 1st District had contributions totaling $21,173.
McPherson, the Pasatiempo Republican and former state legislator, is hoping to become the first Santa Cruz resident ever to represent the predominantly San Lorenzo Valley District. He would also be the first Republican elected since 1978 when Pat Liberty won the seat in a recall election with 35% of the vote.
Since entering politics in 1993, McPherson has competed in over a dozen races, raising close to $7 million in the process. In 2002, while serving in the State Senate he ran for and won the Republican primary for Lt Governor and despite raising $2.7 million he lost in the general election. In 2006, as the appointed, incumbent Secretary of State, he ran for and won the GOP’s primary but again, after raising over $2 million, he lost in the general election.
The Supervisors election will likely be decided on Tuesday. Although four candidates names will appear on the ballot it has become a two person race between McPherson and Hammer. Susan Weber never actively campaigned but withdrew too late for her name to be removed. Bill Smallman has been actively seeking support but seems to have gained little traction. To avoid a November runoff a candidate needs 50% plus one vote to become Supervisor.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Big Turnout in SLV for Safe Bike Routes
It was a classic collection of Valley folks: elementary age kids, young professionals, school officials, community leaders and a smattering of the old guard, who showed up for a community meeting at San Lorenzo Valley Elementary School to discuss plans for safe routes for walking and biking to school.
About 70 were in attendance and organizers claimed over 300 had already signed petitions of support.
The meeting was put together by Bryan Largay a Felton parent and Tawn Kennedy of PeoplePower, the local bike rider advocacy group. The two spearheaded the formation of Safe Routes to School SLV, a coalition of of community members and local organizations.
Largay referenced past efforts including, the SLV Trails Committee, local groups that had offered support like the SLVUSD Board of Trustees, The Valley Women’s Club, People Power, the Sierra Club of Santa Cruz County and the SLV Chamber of Commerce and said this gathering was “another step on the journey”.
He suggested it would not be easy or quick, but he hoped that in five years his child could safely ride their bike to school.
Kennedy, spoke briefly about state and national initiatives that currently exist to promote healthier lifestyle choices for students - 16% walk or ride bikes to school today vs 42% in 1969; as well as efforts to reduce traffic congestion - 25% of morning commute traffic is attributed to parents taking children to school. He spoke of existing and potential coalitions and pledged to continue dedicate resources to see the project through.
Superior Court Judge Jeff Almquist, a Felton resident and former County Supervisor, spoke about his experience as an avid bike rider in the Valley. His concern for the safety of cyclists, particularly along Hwy 9 led him to spearhead a plan to develop a safe bike route from Santa Cruz to Boulder Creek. As a County Supervisor and a member of the Transportation Commission he spearheaded a process which eventually resulted in the publication of the SLV Trail Feasibility Study. (Almquist was appointed to the bench before the study was published in July 2006.)
Almquist pointed out that the existence of the finished study could at least provide the “predicate for future funding” and he noted that the transportation budget was separate from the State’s general fund and might not be as severely affected by the current state budget mess.
The three candidates for County Supervisor were in attendance and all pledged their support. Eric Hammer, (who has already earned the endorsement of PeoplePower) urged the group to use the “momentum you have clearly developed” to press for a meeting with John Presleigh, County Director of Public Works and “start a conversation” about what kinds of incremental improvements might be feasible in the short term. “Working as a community we can do this.” he said, adding that this is exactly the kind of project that describes the work he hopes to do as Supervisor.
Bruce McPherson was optimistic but listed three obstacles to overcome: “1. The topography of Hwy 9, 2. Money and 3. Property owners.” He decried the traffic congestion problems, saying “Highway 9 is a mess” and that something needs to be done “so we don’t have a parking lot twice a day.”
He mentioned the current tax property owners pay for road maintenance, suggesting that it was something that would have to be “looked at”.
“I don’t like tax and spend” he said “but we have to think about it.”
He thought the project would find favor with everyone from “highway people to health care.” As far as property owners he said only that “we have to deal with it.”
Bill Smallman said he was “100% in support” and then went on to explain and defend his opposition to the coastal rail purchase.
When the audience was invited to provide comments, many wanted to know what were the next steps. Mr Largay suggested no real action could occur before January because of the elections. It was at this point that Hammer suggested the level of support in the room deserved swifter action. Largay wasted no time in tapping the momentum by scheduling an organizational meeting for the following Monday, 7-8pm at SLE.
To get involved contact Tawn Kennedy at greenways@peoplepowersc.org
In the interest of proividing a complete account; one gentleman was curious about who would protect his property rights. He claims he has to watch misbehaving youth cutting across his land doing “all sorts of things; fighting, using drugs, screwing.”
About 70 were in attendance and organizers claimed over 300 had already signed petitions of support.
The meeting was put together by Bryan Largay a Felton parent and Tawn Kennedy of PeoplePower, the local bike rider advocacy group. The two spearheaded the formation of Safe Routes to School SLV, a coalition of of community members and local organizations.
Largay referenced past efforts including, the SLV Trails Committee, local groups that had offered support like the SLVUSD Board of Trustees, The Valley Women’s Club, People Power, the Sierra Club of Santa Cruz County and the SLV Chamber of Commerce and said this gathering was “another step on the journey”.
He suggested it would not be easy or quick, but he hoped that in five years his child could safely ride their bike to school.
Kennedy, spoke briefly about state and national initiatives that currently exist to promote healthier lifestyle choices for students - 16% walk or ride bikes to school today vs 42% in 1969; as well as efforts to reduce traffic congestion - 25% of morning commute traffic is attributed to parents taking children to school. He spoke of existing and potential coalitions and pledged to continue dedicate resources to see the project through.
Superior Court Judge Jeff Almquist, a Felton resident and former County Supervisor, spoke about his experience as an avid bike rider in the Valley. His concern for the safety of cyclists, particularly along Hwy 9 led him to spearhead a plan to develop a safe bike route from Santa Cruz to Boulder Creek. As a County Supervisor and a member of the Transportation Commission he spearheaded a process which eventually resulted in the publication of the SLV Trail Feasibility Study. (Almquist was appointed to the bench before the study was published in July 2006.)
Almquist pointed out that the existence of the finished study could at least provide the “predicate for future funding” and he noted that the transportation budget was separate from the State’s general fund and might not be as severely affected by the current state budget mess.
The three candidates for County Supervisor were in attendance and all pledged their support. Eric Hammer, (who has already earned the endorsement of PeoplePower) urged the group to use the “momentum you have clearly developed” to press for a meeting with John Presleigh, County Director of Public Works and “start a conversation” about what kinds of incremental improvements might be feasible in the short term. “Working as a community we can do this.” he said, adding that this is exactly the kind of project that describes the work he hopes to do as Supervisor.
Bruce McPherson was optimistic but listed three obstacles to overcome: “1. The topography of Hwy 9, 2. Money and 3. Property owners.” He decried the traffic congestion problems, saying “Highway 9 is a mess” and that something needs to be done “so we don’t have a parking lot twice a day.”
He mentioned the current tax property owners pay for road maintenance, suggesting that it was something that would have to be “looked at”.
“I don’t like tax and spend” he said “but we have to think about it.”
He thought the project would find favor with everyone from “highway people to health care.” As far as property owners he said only that “we have to deal with it.”
Bill Smallman said he was “100% in support” and then went on to explain and defend his opposition to the coastal rail purchase.
When the audience was invited to provide comments, many wanted to know what were the next steps. Mr Largay suggested no real action could occur before January because of the elections. It was at this point that Hammer suggested the level of support in the room deserved swifter action. Largay wasted no time in tapping the momentum by scheduling an organizational meeting for the following Monday, 7-8pm at SLE.
To get involved contact Tawn Kennedy at greenways@peoplepowersc.org
In the interest of proividing a complete account; one gentleman was curious about who would protect his property rights. He claims he has to watch misbehaving youth cutting across his land doing “all sorts of things; fighting, using drugs, screwing.”
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Taking The Fifth: Supe Candidates Face-Off in 1st Forum
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Thanks to Wendy Sigmund, publisher of the new Boulder Creek Bulletin, for allowing us to share this account by Valerie White of the Valley Women's Club/League of Women Voters Candidate Forum held last week. If you haven't yet seen the new print publication (the 4th issue is out now) you can find it at most BC merchants. It's chock full of news and info focused on the people and events in Boulder Creek. I was present at the forum and I think Ms White does a credible job of reporting on the event. It is obviously not a verbatim transcript but I think it fairly represents the questions and responses. The account is unedited and first appeared in the April 14th edition of the Boulder Creek Bulletin (Vol 1:4).
Update: Valerie White contacted me and provided her original story which contains a different version of one of Eric Hammer's responses regarding the proposed desal plant in Santa Cruz. The version which went to print could leave the impression that Hammer supports the Santa Cruz Water Dept proposal which is not the case. I've edited the text below to reflect her original account.
Three Candidates For County Supervisor Debate
By Valerie White
Last Wednesday evening, April 11, the three remaining candidates for the 5th District County Supervisor position held a debate at the SLV High School hosted by the Valley Women’s Club. The auditorium was packed and people were given cards to fill out for questions to ask the candidates. Bill Smallman began by saying that the wrong candidates are being elected and that they are sorely lacking goals. Mr. Smallman stated that his goal is to create a Board of Economic Development. Bruce Mc Pherson stated that he had been nominated by Arnold Schwarzenegger for Secretary of State and was voted in unanimously. He also told us that he has been married for 44 years, and that he was an editor and writer for the Sentinel for 26 years. Eric Hammer said that he is 43 years old and that he believes he has the skills to unite the three communities in this district. He interacts with the public on a daily basis and employs between one and two hundred people at his construction company.
There was a huge stack of questions and time did not allow for all of them to be asked.
Question #1: What issue do you feel is the most pressing and how will you address it?
Mc Pherson: My first priority is the economy. When I went door to door speaking with people in this community, many people told me they were in imminent danger of losing their homes. I am concerned that this county has no strategy for helping these people. Another priority is the protection of our natural resources. And finally, we need to provide more law enforcement and build and repair roads.
Hammer: Hammer: Renewable resources. We have a water shortage and the aquifers are being drained. Santa Cruz is talking about building a desalinization plant and we need to work together for a goal.
Smallman: Roads need to be fixed not by a tax increase but by better budgeting. We need to conserve water. I am against a desalinization plant. We need to restrict growth and sprawl.
Question #2: Would you support funding for a new library in Felton?
Hammer: Yes. I support the ten branch system. I do not think a Scott’s Valley library alone can fully serve our community.
Mc Pherson: Yes. I signed a 4 cent sales tax designed to be used indefinitely for libraries. I do not want to close any branches. If elected I would ask for the Felton Library to be built tomorrow.
Smallman: Yes. Libraries serve as a learning center for people who can’t afford computers. I want to have it built, maintained and supported.
Question#3: Will you support “safe route to school”?
Hammer: The route is already planned using People Power. It will go through downtown Felton and then through the back streets.
Smallman: I was unaware of this plan. I am in favor of giving access to bikes, but am concerned about other paths going through environmentally sensitive places.
Mc Pherson: Children deserve no less.
Question #4: What happened to the Bike and Hike plan from Boulder Creek to the San Lorenzo Park in Santa Cruz?
Smallman: We have to consider the cost. We need to spend money where it is most needed. Stick with the path to and from school, but not new recreational paths.
Mc Pherson: We can make it happen. It is a difficult task to take on when we need money for other things. People need to keep their supervisor informed of their top priorities.
Hammer: It wasn’t dropped completely. There were road blocks. Property owners didn’t want access on their properties. But there is such a thing as eminent domain.
Question #5: How do you envision use to sustain the environment?
Mc Pherson: We are a slow growth community. Most people live here because of that. I have always been very protective of our environmental resources. I am the vice chairman for the Marine Center in Santa Cruz. Environmental protection and jobs can work together, and they do. In 1902 my great-grandfather helped establish Big Basin as a state park. I am proud to be a Sempervirens member and intend to maintain Castle Rock as a state park.
Smallman: We need to have civil engineers and scientists creating pristine environments. The planning department has a big role in that.
Hammer: We have a spoken and unspoken slow growth mentality. We are at a point over the next four years that the general plan will be change. I would like to see those houses that were built in the thirties and forties in this valley repaired and renovated.
Question #6: Do you support water acquisition in Felton?
Hammer: Yes, Lompico is having issues and residents are reaching out to SLV for support for a merger. SLV wants to be sure there is consensus. We need to give Zayante and Lompico some help before there is a draught.
Smallman: Five hundred houses were built in Zayante and Lompico with poor planning. They built their own infrastructure and it eventually broke down.
Mc Pherson: There would have to be an agreement between San Lorenzo and Lompico. SLV directors seem to be willing to do that, they just don’t want to be left holding the bag.
Question #7: What is the first step to ensure an adequate water supply in the future?
Mc Pherson: The options are limited. We have a great aquifer, the most pristine water source. We have the best record of water conservation in the state. We may have to do it again. Another good option is to tie in with one another in a cooperative effort.
Hammer: Conservation, re-evaluating our building practices, making sacrifices. We need catchment systems on all buildings. We need pavement that allows water to soak down. We need to rip up parking lots and repave. We need to recharge aquifers.
Smallman: There is a new type of septic treatment tank, but they are expensive. The county is doing a bad job managing water pollution. We can build a reservoir in Scotts Valley.
Question #8: What can we do to improve the situation with the Brookdale Lodge?
Smallman: The owner needs to be forced to sell or have restrictions and time limits placed upon him to get him on a schedule and get the Brookdale Lodge back in business. We are starting to lose recognition.
Mc Pherson: We are dealing with private property rights, but the county needs to force the issue. We need improvements in county practices. The Brookdale Lodge is a critical element to tourism in the San Lorenzo Valley. County can press issues to force the owner into action or get him out of there.
Hammer: Someone suggested that it might be used for low cost senior housing. The county needs to be proactive. We need to talk to the county, start a conversation with the owner, real estate agents and county counsel and put together a team to attract a buyer.
Question #9: Are you in favor of supporting Planned Parenthood?
Smallman, McPherson, Hammer: Yes.
Question #10: Marijuana, how do we insure safe practices?
Smallman: Renegade pot farms are a real problem in many state parks. I have suggested that people be given passes to go into parks that are closed to look for them. Then rangers can be called when they are found.
Mc Pherson: Different levels of government levels are working against each other. There is a use for it, but how to make it work for all levels of law enforcement? It has to start from the top on down. We don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on something we are going to lose.
Hammer: We need to impose the same regulations on it as we do for any other thing, such as erosion control. It is a huge part of this community. We need to impose environmental protection and code enforcers and give them the resources.
Question #11: What is the most pressing issue and what would you do about it?
Smallman: Create a Board of Economic Development. Secondly, road maintenance
Mc Pherson: Provide more law enforcement safety. Be more accommodating to our local business community to attract and retain businesses.
Hammer: Better law enforcement and fire protection. Build a satellite police station in Ben Lomond.
Question #12: Women are underrepresented in the County. How would you change this?
Hammer: Support the Woman’s Commission adopted worldwide with the sole exception of the United States. We need to empower women in the community, motivate women leaders and make them feel safe.
Smallman: We don’t want to go backwards and be male dominated; we need to move forward.
Mc Pherson: We need to listen up, men. Listen to what the women have to say.
Question #13: What is your major point of difference from the other two candidates?
Mc Pherson: I have a proven track record of getting things done, experience that the other two don’t have. Experience, knowledge and personal contacts.
Hammer: My biggest strength is local knowledge of what works right here and right now. I am able to form partnerships. I am a multi-tasking project manager. I can listen, I am approachable and I always follow up on what I say I am going to do.
Smallman: Job development is the answer, the only realistic plan. I don’t want to make it confusing. I am here to work hard. I am not going on endorsements, I am going on message.
Last Wednesday evening, April 11, the three remaining candidates for the 5th District County Supervisor position held a debate at the SLV High School hosted by the Valley Women’s Club. The auditorium was packed and people were given cards to fill out for questions to ask the candidates. Bill Smallman began by saying that the wrong candidates are being elected and that they are sorely lacking goals. Mr. Smallman stated that his goal is to create a Board of Economic Development. Bruce Mc Pherson stated that he had been nominated by Arnold Schwarzenegger for Secretary of State and was voted in unanimously. He also told us that he has been married for 44 years, and that he was an editor and writer for the Sentinel for 26 years. Eric Hammer said that he is 43 years old and that he believes he has the skills to unite the three communities in this district. He interacts with the public on a daily basis and employs between one and two hundred people at his construction company.
There was a huge stack of questions and time did not allow for all of them to be asked.
Question #1: What issue do you feel is the most pressing and how will you address it?
Mc Pherson: My first priority is the economy. When I went door to door speaking with people in this community, many people told me they were in imminent danger of losing their homes. I am concerned that this county has no strategy for helping these people. Another priority is the protection of our natural resources. And finally, we need to provide more law enforcement and build and repair roads.
Hammer: Hammer: Renewable resources. We have a water shortage and the aquifers are being drained. Santa Cruz is talking about building a desalinization plant and we need to work together for a goal.
Smallman: Roads need to be fixed not by a tax increase but by better budgeting. We need to conserve water. I am against a desalinization plant. We need to restrict growth and sprawl.
Question #2: Would you support funding for a new library in Felton?
Hammer: Yes. I support the ten branch system. I do not think a Scott’s Valley library alone can fully serve our community.
Mc Pherson: Yes. I signed a 4 cent sales tax designed to be used indefinitely for libraries. I do not want to close any branches. If elected I would ask for the Felton Library to be built tomorrow.
Smallman: Yes. Libraries serve as a learning center for people who can’t afford computers. I want to have it built, maintained and supported.
Question#3: Will you support “safe route to school”?
Hammer: The route is already planned using People Power. It will go through downtown Felton and then through the back streets.
Smallman: I was unaware of this plan. I am in favor of giving access to bikes, but am concerned about other paths going through environmentally sensitive places.
Mc Pherson: Children deserve no less.
Question #4: What happened to the Bike and Hike plan from Boulder Creek to the San Lorenzo Park in Santa Cruz?
Smallman: We have to consider the cost. We need to spend money where it is most needed. Stick with the path to and from school, but not new recreational paths.
Mc Pherson: We can make it happen. It is a difficult task to take on when we need money for other things. People need to keep their supervisor informed of their top priorities.
Hammer: It wasn’t dropped completely. There were road blocks. Property owners didn’t want access on their properties. But there is such a thing as eminent domain.
Question #5: How do you envision use to sustain the environment?
Mc Pherson: We are a slow growth community. Most people live here because of that. I have always been very protective of our environmental resources. I am the vice chairman for the Marine Center in Santa Cruz. Environmental protection and jobs can work together, and they do. In 1902 my great-grandfather helped establish Big Basin as a state park. I am proud to be a Sempervirens member and intend to maintain Castle Rock as a state park.
Smallman: We need to have civil engineers and scientists creating pristine environments. The planning department has a big role in that.
Hammer: We have a spoken and unspoken slow growth mentality. We are at a point over the next four years that the general plan will be change. I would like to see those houses that were built in the thirties and forties in this valley repaired and renovated.
Question #6: Do you support water acquisition in Felton?
Hammer: Yes, Lompico is having issues and residents are reaching out to SLV for support for a merger. SLV wants to be sure there is consensus. We need to give Zayante and Lompico some help before there is a draught.
Smallman: Five hundred houses were built in Zayante and Lompico with poor planning. They built their own infrastructure and it eventually broke down.
Mc Pherson: There would have to be an agreement between San Lorenzo and Lompico. SLV directors seem to be willing to do that, they just don’t want to be left holding the bag.
Question #7: What is the first step to ensure an adequate water supply in the future?
Mc Pherson: The options are limited. We have a great aquifer, the most pristine water source. We have the best record of water conservation in the state. We may have to do it again. Another good option is to tie in with one another in a cooperative effort.
Hammer: Conservation, re-evaluating our building practices, making sacrifices. We need catchment systems on all buildings. We need pavement that allows water to soak down. We need to rip up parking lots and repave. We need to recharge aquifers.
Smallman: There is a new type of septic treatment tank, but they are expensive. The county is doing a bad job managing water pollution. We can build a reservoir in Scotts Valley.
Question #8: What can we do to improve the situation with the Brookdale Lodge?
Smallman: The owner needs to be forced to sell or have restrictions and time limits placed upon him to get him on a schedule and get the Brookdale Lodge back in business. We are starting to lose recognition.
Mc Pherson: We are dealing with private property rights, but the county needs to force the issue. We need improvements in county practices. The Brookdale Lodge is a critical element to tourism in the San Lorenzo Valley. County can press issues to force the owner into action or get him out of there.
Hammer: Someone suggested that it might be used for low cost senior housing. The county needs to be proactive. We need to talk to the county, start a conversation with the owner, real estate agents and county counsel and put together a team to attract a buyer.
Question #9: Are you in favor of supporting Planned Parenthood?
Smallman, McPherson, Hammer: Yes.
Question #10: Marijuana, how do we insure safe practices?
Smallman: Renegade pot farms are a real problem in many state parks. I have suggested that people be given passes to go into parks that are closed to look for them. Then rangers can be called when they are found.
Mc Pherson: Different levels of government levels are working against each other. There is a use for it, but how to make it work for all levels of law enforcement? It has to start from the top on down. We don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on something we are going to lose.
Hammer: We need to impose the same regulations on it as we do for any other thing, such as erosion control. It is a huge part of this community. We need to impose environmental protection and code enforcers and give them the resources.
Question #11: What is the most pressing issue and what would you do about it?
Smallman: Create a Board of Economic Development. Secondly, road maintenance
Mc Pherson: Provide more law enforcement safety. Be more accommodating to our local business community to attract and retain businesses.
Hammer: Better law enforcement and fire protection. Build a satellite police station in Ben Lomond.
Question #12: Women are underrepresented in the County. How would you change this?
Hammer: Support the Woman’s Commission adopted worldwide with the sole exception of the United States. We need to empower women in the community, motivate women leaders and make them feel safe.
Smallman: We don’t want to go backwards and be male dominated; we need to move forward.
Mc Pherson: We need to listen up, men. Listen to what the women have to say.
Question #13: What is your major point of difference from the other two candidates?
Mc Pherson: I have a proven track record of getting things done, experience that the other two don’t have. Experience, knowledge and personal contacts.
Hammer: My biggest strength is local knowledge of what works right here and right now. I am able to form partnerships. I am a multi-tasking project manager. I can listen, I am approachable and I always follow up on what I say I am going to do.
Smallman: Job development is the answer, the only realistic plan. I don’t want to make it confusing. I am here to work hard. I am not going on endorsements, I am going on message.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Taking The Fifth: Candidates To Finally Face Off in Race to Represent SLV
All politics are local and it doesn’t get any more local for San Lorenzo Valley voters than the Performing Arts Center at the High School this Wednesday April 11th between 7 and 9pm. The event is free and all voters are encouraged to attend and submit questions they would like addressed by the candidates for the 5th District seat on the County Board of Supervisor.
The three remaining active candidates, Brookdale’s Eric Hammer, Lompico’s Bill Smallman and Pasatiempo’s Bruce McPherson; will have the opportunity make their case why we should elect them to serve as our representative for the next four years.
The three will have an opportunity to distinguish and differentiate themselves as the format requires each candidate to address every issue in turn. Questions will be solicited from all those present and will be submitted to the candidates by a representative of the League of Women Voter, who along with the Valley Women’s Club has conducted 29 previous forums for local candidates. Community Television of Santa Cruz will record the event and students from the High School will provide logistical assistance.
While all three gentlemen have been busy walking precincts and meeting voters at coffee houses and private residences; this event will mark the first time they will all be together on a local stage to address issues posed by local voters.
Not surprisingly all three have been stressing the need to protect the environment, improve the roads and provide for economic development. Hopefully this forum will give voters an insight on how they intend to deliver on these priorities if elected and what other views they hold that are important to the residents of the San Lorenzo Valley.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Taking The Fifth: Hammer Gets Early Key Endorsement From County Women's Group
Hammer won the endorsement over George Wylie, Bill Smallman and John Abel who all spoke at the groups meeting, Saturday. The other candidates for the predominantly SLV district, Sue Weber of Ben Lomond and Bruce McPherson, Santa Cruz, did not seek the Club’s endorsement.
Calling himself “solutions oriented” Hammer cited his ability to bring diverse groups together, to not only discuss issues but to take action and create results. He pointed to the turn around of the BCPRD from dysfunctional to award winning. “I may be not the smartest guy in the room but I know how to get the smartest guys to the table and then help them reach consensus and get things done.” he said.
George Wylie, a retired military and commercial pilot who serves on the school board for the SLVUSD, asked the group to keep an open mind and vote for him. Wylie offered that he would be the best candidate to stand up to McPherson, "the elephant in the room" who, he warned, was a grave threat to the County. He also spoke about his activites in the pilots union and promised to bring his union credentials to the BOS.
BIll Smallman, the Lompico Water District Board member and civil engineer spoke of his experience with public infrastructure projects as well as his environmental activism. He wants to create a county economic development board and to improve infrastructure in ways that decreases the impact on the environment.
John Abel of Boulder Creek indicated that he was dropping out of the race but wanted everyone to know that he intends to take a more active role in the community.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Taking the Fifth: Win or Lose, McPherson Will Make History
Since former Republican state legislator and Secretary of State, Bruce McPherson, first announced his candidacy for County Supervisor, we’ve been speculating that the race for the fifth district seat could become the most expensive in Santa Cruz County history. The County Elections office today released campaign financial disclosure statements which leave little doubt that the Santa Cruz native will raise - and we assume spend - more money in this election than has ever been seen in a county wide contest.
McPherson is seeking a seat on the five member County Board as the representative from the predominantly San Lorenzo Valley District. He reported raising $47,882 in the period between November 20th and December 31. That’s about $1,100 a day flowing into his coffers. The primary is June 5 and the general election is in November.
McPherson raised $3,875 from Scotts Valley residents including the maximum $400 each from City Council members Dene Bustichi and Jim Reed who both flirted with running for the Board themselves. Most of his donors are Santa Cruz City or County residents with about 10% of his money coming from outside the area. The report lists only 3 residents from the San Lorenzo Valley however that number is sure to increase as he has lately been seen spending time walking neighborhoods in Ben Lomond and Boulder Creek.
Boulder Creek Recreation and Park District board member, Eric Hammer, who lives in Brookdale, reported raising $17,437 in the same period. Hammer’s numbers would be more impressive absent McPherson. Current Board President John Leopold who is running from the 1st District and has enjoyed strong backing from establishment progressives raised $14,349 in his re-election bid thus far. In the other race, to fill the seat being vacated by Ellen Pirie, County School Board member Vic Marani reported raising $8,615. Marani has since dropped out of the race and none of the other candidates reported raising any money prior to the 12/31 reporting deadline.
Over 90% of Hammer’s cash is coming from residents of Boulder Creek, Ben Lomond and Felton. He had three out of county donors.
Candidates are required by law to report contributions twice a year, on 12/31 and 6/30 so money raised between now and the June 5th election will not be known until July 1.
The other candidates for the 5th District seat, John Abel, Bill Smallman, Susan Weber and George Wylie all indicated they received no campaign contributions prior to the end of the year.
McPherson is seeking a seat on the five member County Board as the representative from the predominantly San Lorenzo Valley District. He reported raising $47,882 in the period between November 20th and December 31. That’s about $1,100 a day flowing into his coffers. The primary is June 5 and the general election is in November.
McPherson raised $3,875 from Scotts Valley residents including the maximum $400 each from City Council members Dene Bustichi and Jim Reed who both flirted with running for the Board themselves. Most of his donors are Santa Cruz City or County residents with about 10% of his money coming from outside the area. The report lists only 3 residents from the San Lorenzo Valley however that number is sure to increase as he has lately been seen spending time walking neighborhoods in Ben Lomond and Boulder Creek.
Boulder Creek Recreation and Park District board member, Eric Hammer, who lives in Brookdale, reported raising $17,437 in the same period. Hammer’s numbers would be more impressive absent McPherson. Current Board President John Leopold who is running from the 1st District and has enjoyed strong backing from establishment progressives raised $14,349 in his re-election bid thus far. In the other race, to fill the seat being vacated by Ellen Pirie, County School Board member Vic Marani reported raising $8,615. Marani has since dropped out of the race and none of the other candidates reported raising any money prior to the 12/31 reporting deadline.
Over 90% of Hammer’s cash is coming from residents of Boulder Creek, Ben Lomond and Felton. He had three out of county donors.
Candidates are required by law to report contributions twice a year, on 12/31 and 6/30 so money raised between now and the June 5th election will not be known until July 1.
The other candidates for the 5th District seat, John Abel, Bill Smallman, Susan Weber and George Wylie all indicated they received no campaign contributions prior to the end of the year.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Taking The Fifth: Hammer Announcement Draws Large Crowd
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| Candidate Hammer with wife Susan and children, Charlie, Ruby and Kai |
An overflow crowd that included three generations of his family and a broad cross section of local community residents gathered at Scopazzi’s restaurant as Hammer officially embarked on what may be a year long race. (So far five candidates have expressed their intention to be on the ballot in June, however if no one receives 50% plus 1, a runoff of the top two finishers would occur in November 2012.)
Hammer was introduced by long time Valley resident and environmentalist, Nancy Macy, who told the assembled that “Eric Hammer is fully cognizant of the hard work involved and wants to take it on, just as he has taken on challenging tasks since he was a kid.”
Macy said Hammer is a “great family man (with) a warm personality and generosity of spirit, (who) works well with all kinds of people. He is a problem solver. And, he is dedicated to doing a superior job, not just a good job.”
For his part, Hammer, spoke of how he learned to honor and value civic involvement as a young child from his parents, Mary and Joe, in their Boulder Creek home. His mother, Mary Hammer, founded what was then known as the Valley Resource Center in response to the devastating natural disaster that occurred in the Valley in 1982. (Now named the Mountain Resource Center, the organization has become the primary NGO in the Fifth District serving children, families and seniors as well as serving as the community wide disaster preparedness center.)
Describing himself as a parent, contractor, activist and life long resident, Hammer said he “is not afraid to roll up my sleeves and get the work done.”
“There are a multitude of issues facing Santa Cruz County.” Hammer said and then highlighted a few of those he felt were vital to the Fifth District:
The Environment: “We need to keep our natural habitat and watersheds preserved now and for generations to come. I learned from Al Haynes, Fred McPherson and John Stanley (founders of Save San Lorenzo River) how pristine, yet fragile our watershed is.”
Roads and transportation: “Times are tough, but maintaining our roads is a critical need for the Fifth District. It’s not only a transportation issue it’s a public safety issue as well. Whether you’re talking about bicycles, busses, cars or trucks, or perhaps most important, emergency vehicles; our roadways are a vital service and they are in great need of repair and maintenance.”
Planning: “It should be an easy process for a homeowner to go and get their own permit. We also should focus on green building and renewable practices and planning.”
Promoting Community: “I understand how important local parks, recreation activites, and local libraries are to a healthy, vibrant community. Programs that support children, families, and our seniors are also critical. I support community programs that help people to help themselves and that foster economic development through counseling, training or access to available resources.”
After thanking all those present Hammer introduced Barbara Sprenger, Chairperson for the campaign, who talked about how volunteers could get involved.
Sprenger mentioned what she said were the “unique and diverse interests of the community -- from protecting the watershed to understanding the needs of kids whose parents commute 1, 2 or 3 hours a day, We need a supervisor who lives and breathes these issues, like Eric does, who has demonstrated how effective he can be for us locally. This community has always known how to pull together in the face of powerful interests. We can do it now and have true, local, accessible representation."
Sprenger also emphasized the plan to run a positive campaign focused on addressing solutions but warned that efforts by some in the County to remake the Board to a more conservative body would likely bring an influx of out of area dollars into the campaign to defeat Hammer. She urged people to get involved in discussions with their neighbors and pointed out that donations and ideas were welcome at the Hammer for Supervisor website and Facebook pages.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Eric Hammer Schedules Campaign Kickoff Event
Brookdale's Eric Hammer will officially announce his intention to seek the office of County Supervisor representing the Fifth District at an event in Boulder Creek on Thursday, Nov 17th.
Here is a copy of the news release issued by his campaign:
ERIC HAMMER ANNOUNCES RUN FOR SANTA CRUZ COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS, DISTRICT 5
Brookdale’s Eric Hammer will officially announce his candidacy for County Supervisor at a special event in Boulder Creek on Thursday November 17. The community is invited to join Eric, his wife Susan and dozens of local dignitaries and community leaders at Scopazzi’s Restaurant.
Hammer chose to kickoff his campaign in Boulder Creek in part to show his appreciation for the tremendous support he has received from his north county neighbors who have twice elected him to the Parks and Recreation District Board.
“I was born and raised in the San Lorenzo Valley, I went to school here, I built a business here and this is where I chose to raise my family.” Hammer said, “I’m passionate about ensuring that my kids have the same experience, the same beautiful environment and the same opportunities that this community has given me.”
Hammer, 43, is the son of Mary and Joe Hammer of Boulder Creek. He and his wife Susan have three children: Kai, Charlie and Ruby.
He is a member of the Boulder Creek Recreation and Parks District Board, President of the Boulder Creek Business Association, a member of the Board of Directors of Community Bridges of Santa Cruz County and is on the Citizens Advisory Committee of Mountain Community Resources.
Here is a copy of the news release issued by his campaign:
ERIC HAMMER ANNOUNCES RUN FOR SANTA CRUZ COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS, DISTRICT 5
Campaign Kickoff To Be Held Thursday, November 17, 2011 at 5:30PM
Scopazzi’s Restaurant, 13300 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek
Brookdale’s Eric Hammer will officially announce his candidacy for County Supervisor at a special event in Boulder Creek on Thursday November 17. The community is invited to join Eric, his wife Susan and dozens of local dignitaries and community leaders at Scopazzi’s Restaurant.
Hammer chose to kickoff his campaign in Boulder Creek in part to show his appreciation for the tremendous support he has received from his north county neighbors who have twice elected him to the Parks and Recreation District Board.
“I was born and raised in the San Lorenzo Valley, I went to school here, I built a business here and this is where I chose to raise my family.” Hammer said, “I’m passionate about ensuring that my kids have the same experience, the same beautiful environment and the same opportunities that this community has given me.”
Hammer, 43, is the son of Mary and Joe Hammer of Boulder Creek. He and his wife Susan have three children: Kai, Charlie and Ruby.
He is a member of the Boulder Creek Recreation and Parks District Board, President of the Boulder Creek Business Association, a member of the Board of Directors of Community Bridges of Santa Cruz County and is on the Citizens Advisory Committee of Mountain Community Resources.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
BCRPD's Eric Hammer Honored By State Rec & Park District Assn
The Boulder Creek Recreation and Park District just announced that Director Eric Hammer has been selected to receive an Award of Distinction for Outstanding Board Member for Director Eric Hammer from the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts (CARPD).
Eric has been instrumental in leading the district in park renovations, strategic planning, and community building for more than 6 years. He is very committed to creating community through people, parks, and programs. The award will be presented during the CARPD 2011 annual conference on Saturday, April 16, 2011 in Monterey.
Eric lives with his wife and three children in Brookdale.
Eric has been instrumental in leading the district in park renovations, strategic planning, and community building for more than 6 years. He is very committed to creating community through people, parks, and programs. The award will be presented during the CARPD 2011 annual conference on Saturday, April 16, 2011 in Monterey.
Eric lives with his wife and three children in Brookdale.
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