Printer-friendly version
By Kristin Kjaero
August 1, 2012 (La Mesa)--The deadline to run for Helix Water District Board is August 10 and no challengers have returned papers. We need good candidates to replace incumbents!
This is the Board that CalAware forced to redo a rate hike for Brown Act violations.
The bright spot on this rubberstamp board, Kathleen Hedberg, is the only director to ask questions or appear to understand materials. The others exude paternalistic arrogance and dismiss anyone speaking at public meetings. Their vindictiveness towards Hedberg for not being “their kind” of team player led them to muzzle requests for information, skip her turn as board vice president and remove her from outside boards.
Recently, Director Muse proposed to prohibit Board Members from speaking with media. Thankfully the Constitution prevailed; they backtracked to “only” require personal opinion disclaimers. Do they really think people can’t tell the difference? Their opinion of the public is low.
Perhaps this explains why staff blatantly instructs “the Board adopt” resolutions, instead of posing questions. An August 1 resolution tells Directors to extend–early – the Employees’ Association contract until 2015 on terms which may increase benefits if cost of living is over 2%. And how will the Healthcare Act affect options? Are you a gambler? Staff wants the Board to roll the dice.
Why do this when public pensions are under scrutiny--and limit options early? Perhaps because employees walked precincts in past elections?
Directors Muse, Linden and Smith seek reelection. Do you live in their divisions? http://hwd.com/board/index.htm. If so, run!
The opinions in this editorial reflect the views of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of East County Magazine. To submit an editorial for consideration, contact editor@eastcountymagazine.org
Recent comments