March 30, 2018 - I enthusiastically encourage District 3 residents to support Heather Bernikoff for county supervisor. We have many young, energetic professionals in the county, but it is rare that they can afford to take the time to serve as elected officials. Heather has experience in healthcare, policy, budget management, and contract oversight, and she has owned businesses. I believe this kind of experience will be necessary to bring economic growth and opportunity to our area. As an example, we would not have Sierra Foothill Charter School without people like her.

I recently attended one of Heather’s events to learn more about her thoughts on water and land use. The extensive mortality of blue oaks, which depend on groundwater during the summer, means that our underground water aquifers were severely depleted by the drought. More extreme cycles of dry and wet weather is projected for California, so this issue is not going away. Since our wells are often interconnected, we need to work together to preserve individuals’ rights to water on their properties. Heather is well aware that water for use in this area is a complicated issue that needs to be monitored and managed carefully.

We need talent and energy to build capacity in our rural community while supporting agriculture and preserving our environment and rural lifestyle. With no financial interests in Mariposa County, Heather is driven only by her strong sense of duty and responsibility to serve. Let’s not pass up this opportunity to elect Heather Bernikoff for county supervisor!

Carolin Frank
Catheys Valley resident and Associate Professor at UC Merced