Here is some of what you should know about Sonoma County’s 2nd District.

Sonoma County is divided into 5 Supervisorial Districts. The size and shape of the districts is determined by population. Census results dictate changes, if any, based on changing population counts determined every 10 years.

Sonoma County’s 2nd District consists primarily of rural acreage which includes farmland for crops and grapes as well as beef and dairy production. Petaluma, Cotati, and a very small portion of Rohnert Park are the three incorporated areas in the 2nd District. Unincorporated areas of the 2nd District include Lakeville, Penngrove, Hessel, Bloomfield, Two Rock, and a significant portion of Valley Ford.

Rural Sonoma County is the source of where most of the cities’ groundwater is obtained.

It is easy to prepare a list of key issues that we must deal with in the immediate future. The solutions from a hypothetical, environmental, and financial perspective, particularly in this economy, are not.

County Supervisors have the unique responsibility of ensuring that our natural resources remain clean, safe, and sustainable forever. Infrastructure, such as roads, freeways, rail transportation, potable water delivery systems, and wastewater disposal, must be developed, maintained, and updated as we move into the future. Projects must be economically feasible, minimizing the burden placed on local property owners and taxpayers.

The nature of industry and the types of businesses that come to or leave Sonoma County should be of utmost importance to County Supervisors. Manufacturing and fabrication are key industries in developing and maintaining local economic wealth, yet Sonoma County’s share has dwindled in recent decades.

In short, a County Supervisor must do everything possible to ensure a sustainable balance between the rural and incorporated communities of Sonoma County. To preserve our quality of life and maintain a healthy economy, both must flourish. If our local economy is to move forward, both city and county jurisdictions must restructure the building and business permitting process. Permit approvals create the jobs and revenue streams that Sonoma County needs. People need to work now!

Signed,

John E. King