On November 8, Santa Barbara County voters will have the opportunity to vote for the candidates who will lead our nation, state, and county. It is amazing to see what passes for qualifications in the race for President of the United States. Although the presidential race attracts our attention, the choice for county supervisor, who will also serve for four years, is very important.
Fortunately a very well qualified candidate is running for county supervisor — Joan Hartmann. As a former county planning commissioner who has known Joan for many years, and seen her in action as the chair of the commission, I know she has the skills, experience, and judgment to make an excellent supervisor. She listens to all sides and supports well-informed practical solutions to complex problems.
Joan has many years of public policy and budgetary experience, and she has worked to improve the lives of citizen at many different levels of government. She understands the importance of coordinating county efforts with the resources and constraints of state and federal agencies to achieve important goals. She has been a strong advocate for government working creatively with the private and nonprofit sectors.