|
Your Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Candidate Review Committee interviewed eight candidates on August 26 and reviewed their questionnaires. The committee submitted its endorsement recommendations to the Board of Directors, who made these final endorsement decisions:
Monterey County Sheriff - TINA NIETO
The Chamber of Commerce endorsed Joe Moses in the primary election. After substantial discussion and consideration of developments that have occurred in this race since the original March interview, the Chamber has chosen to endorse Tina Nieto in the November 2022 runoff.
Monterey County Board of Supervisors, District 2 - NO ENDORSEMENT
In the primary election, the Chamber had endorsed Salinas Mayor Kimbley Craig and regarded Steve Snodgrass as another candidate supportive of business. In the end, the voters chose other candidates with different priorities. The Chamber does not have an endorsement.
Assembly District 30 - NO ENDORSEMENT
Just like in the primary, the Chamber has chosen not to make an endorsement in the general election for the new coastal Assembly District 30. One candidate has not yet become familiar with issues of importance to the Monterey County portion of the district. The other candidate is supportive of business issues but is not aligned with the mission and vision of the Chamber.
Mayor of Monterey - DAN ALBERT, JR.
Mayor Clyde Roberson is not running again. Councilmember Dan Albert, Jr. notes he is responsive to the interests of the business community and supportive of building housing if it is “realistic.” The other candidate is likable and passionate but could improve his diligence with constituent interaction.
Mayor of Del Rey Oaks - SCOTT DONALDSON
Scott Donaldson was endorsed by the Chamber two years ago as a candidate for city council. Now he is running against the incumbent mayor. He wants to see more businesses in Del Rey Oaks and development of the city’s Fort Ord parcel. He tried to broker a compromise to prevent what ended up being a very close vote in June 2022 (failing by 12 votes) to stop the Fort Ord Recreational Trail and Greenway (FORTAG).
Measure Q - Monterey County Safe, Affordable, Quality Child Care Act - SUPPORT
Your Chamber recognizes that many member businesses and organizations have struggled to find workers since the COVID-19 public health orders. One reason often cited for why workers aren’t returning is the lack of accessible and affordable child care. This ballot measure will inject some funding into projects and proposals that would increase the supply of child care options to meet workforce demand. The ballot measure itself has already inspired local interest, community involvement, and news media attention related to the county’s child care system.
|
