There are 5 candidates vying for 3 seats on the Twentynine Palms Water District Board of Directors. (The election is by mail, with ballots due back by August 27.) Reporter Dan Stork posed the same set of questions to each candidate—position on retention of the Fire Department by the Water District, other priorities if elected, motivation for serving, and background. Here’s what they answered on the issues of the Fire Department and other priorities…
With regard to the Fire Department issue, incumbent Director Chancey Chambers said that the issue is having a sustainable model for fire services, regardless of the responsible agency, and that he feels that the Water District is currently in the best position to provide it. Former District administrative employee Judy Hinson hopes the District can keep the Fire Department, because it’s been that way for so long. Business owner Suzi Horn said she’s been studying the issue, and has an open mind on the subject. Paul Hornback, who lives in the unincorporated area within the water district, focused on the closure of the Lear station, and would like to concentrate on getting it re-opened. Incumbent and former District field worker Roger Shinaver noted that the County would have done what the District wound up doing (with regard to the Lear station), so the District just has to move forward. After reiterating that the sustainability of the Fire Department is the most important issue facing the Water District, Chambers listed planning for waste water, salt, and nutrient treatment, and the balancing of groundwater management methods to achieve both quality and low cost. Horn also pointed to long-term planning for waste water treatment as a priority. Hinson was concerned about the prospect of a second water treatment plant, and questioned whether the existing plant is being used to its full capabilities. Hornback said his interests would be comprehensive. Shinaver cited the goals of keeping costs down and water quality high.
Contractor Chambers cited his work experience, plus all he’s learned in his first term, as his qualifications for re-election, emphasizing the time he’s put into research on issues. Shinaver also referred to the experience factor, both as a worker and in one term as director, as being in his favor. Hinson said that her 31 years as an administrative employee of the District gave her insights into how the water industry works. Horn said that 34 years as a tax preparer and business owner is a firm base for overseeing the water business. Retired bookkeeper Hornback said a lifetime of experience living is sufficient qualification. An in-depth look and full transcripts of the candidates’ interviews are available at a link in this story at kcdzfm.com.
CANDIDATE INTERVIEWS
LEARN ABOUT THE FIVE CANDIDATES FOR THREE SEATS ON THE TWENTYNINE PALMS WATER DISTRICT BOARD
