olga martin steele's endorsement for EJ Crandell

I am honored to endorse E.J. Crandell for reelection because he has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to service, earning the respect of his peers and decision makers at all levels of government - which is frankly an imperative if our rural county is to thrive in the challenging economic circumstances we face. 

As the wife of a former County Supervisor, I know the demands of the job and the commitment necessary to stay the course despite the push and pull of competing priorities. It's not a job for beginners - and as we know, in government the wheels of progress can move slowly. In my view, starting over with a lesser qualified, in-experienced candidate will not serve us well. 

When I look at the improvements along the North Shore Corridor under E.J.'s leadership I see progress. I see much better signage, cameras, fewer abandoned vehicles, lights in previously dark neighborhoods; the good work done by the Roadmap Task Force in the CLO and Spring Valley areas and the COPTR program now getting started in Lucerne, Nice & Upper Lake will also make a difference; the improvement projects designated for the Keys areas and Shindler Creek; the road and traffic calming improvements along the highway 20 corridor; and the incredible job E.J. did to allow more time for input on the Scotts Dam/Lake Pillsbury issue - are just a few examples I can name off the top of my head. 

I also want to point out that the character of a leader is important. 

To this end, I'm reminded of a great saying - "If you want to know the character of a person, look at his values." I know E.J. Crandell as a value driven and principled individual. He will make no false promises; puts service to community above himself; is honest, humble and shows respect for all voices; is a true steward of our natural resources; and, as a native of Lake County, he has walked in the shoes of hard-working people who have made a life here and are invested in a better future for all. 

Yes, there's more to do. Staying the course with a leader who has accomplished so much and is poised to accomplish much more is, in my view, is the best path forward. 

If you don't already know E.J., I encourage getting to know him. On June 2, E.J. has my vote, I hope he will have yours as well.