Friday, May 16, 2008

Metro Santa Cruz Endorses John Leopold

In its May 14-21 issue, Metro Santa Cruz endorsed John Leopold for Supervisor, District 1.

Here's an excerpt from the Metro endorsement story that describes John's stance on housing:

"...Leopold has real vision. Leopold has a more realistic approach to the matter. Instead of writing off a whole group of developments indiscriminately, he would work with the neighbors to develop standards. This would be done, Leopold promises, by increasing communication both within the neighborhoods and between the neighborhoods and the developers. First, neighbors would come together and form plans...when a developer has its eye on a plot of land in the neighborhood, a packet would be presented explaining to the potential developer what the neighbors will or will not oppose. This will rationalize a situation that now too often results in both developer and neighbor feeling frustrated and angry with the other side."

Great way to build neighborhoods and make sure the voice of District 1 voters gets heard, John!

John Leopold Supports Neighborhood Integrity

Correcting an earlier error in its reporting, The Santa Cruz Sentinel published a letter to the editor from John Leopold in which he clearly states that he supports strong neighborhoods, quality housing, and appropriate land use. Here is the text of his 5/14 letter:

Protect the neighborhood

In a recent Sentinel article, my position on housing in the 1st District was mischaracterized. I am for protecting the integrity of neighborhoods. New development should fit the character of its neighborhood.

We will not repeat the same mistakes that have been made in the past in Live Oak. No more dense housing, made of shoddy construction with inadequate parking. We must seek creative ways to increase the affordability of housing and construct in harmony with the environment.

I am prepared to discuss mixed-use housing in certain areas where we are redeveloping commercial property. As supervisor, I will continue to be involved in our neighborhood associations to ensure that any new development is in scale with our neighborhoods.

If you are interested in learning more about my positions, please visit my Web site at www.friendsofjohnleopold.com.

John Leopold

Live Oak

John Endorsed by the Sierra Club

Anyone who knows John knows that he is very interested in the environment. Recently, his commitment to protect our District 1 ecology garnered him the endorsement of the Ventana Chapter of the Sierra Club. Thanks for keeping it green, John!

Wednesday, May 7, 2008

John Laird and Three Additional Endorsements for John Leopold

Our Assemblymember, the Honorable John Laird, has endorsed John Leopold for Supervisor, District 1. Laird said, "I have worked with John Leopold for years. He is smart, caring, committed and effective. He would make a first-rate member of the Board of Supervisors."

In addition, John Leopold has received the following critical endorsements from currently elected officials:

Joe Simitian - State Senator
Fred Keeley - Santa Cruz County Treasurer
Neal Coonerty - Santa Cruz County Supervisor

John Leopold, a Cabrillo College Trustee for eight years, has held the public trust and efficiently managed millions in tax dollars. His experience includes more than 20 years of tireless work for the public good.

Key Mobile Home Endorsements for John Leopold

John Leopold has been endorsed for Supervisor, District 1, by Jerry Bowles of the Golden State Manufactured Homes Owner's League (GSMOL) and by Jean Brocklebank, HOA President of the Yacht Harbor Manor Mobile Home Park.

John truly understands the importance of mobile home parks as a critical part of our affordable housing supply. You'll see it on John's web site and in his campaign brochures - John is against Proposition 98 and supports Proposition 99. Protect renters and homes - join John in voting no on Proposition 98 and yes on Proposition 99.

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Important Information if You're Voting by Mail

Voters in Santa Cruz County District 1 are beginning to receive their vote-by-mail ballot. Make sure your voice is heard and your vote counts!

Here are the top three avoidable reasons for ballot disqualification:

1. Vote-by-mail ballot is received by the county clerk after 8:00 p.m. election day.
Complete your ballot and mail it no later than a week before the election. Don't forget to affix proper first class postage.

2. No signature.
You must sign the back of your blue ballot return envelope next to the large black "X". Without a signature, your ballot will not be counted. After signing, print your name, enter the date and your address. If you are disabled and/or sign with a mark, be sure to have a witness age 18 or over sign on the last line on the envelope.

3. Unauthorized return.
If, due to illness or disability you must have someone else return your ballot, have them sign the authorization box on the blue ballot return envelope.