Candidate for
Supervisor; County of San Diego; Supervisorial District 5

There are few things that I am more passionate about than protecting private property rights. At my direction, the County of San Diego has reviewed policies as they relate to eminent domain to guard against future abuse as was evident in a July 26, 2005 5-4 decision by the U.S. Supreme Court involving the City of New London, Connecticut. The majority of the Supreme Court forgot the reason we left Old London and said goodbye to King George.

I have been in the lead on land use issues in the County of San Diego and have urged a return to common sense when it comes to responsible management of public lands, and forests and fire prevention.

In addition to my pledge to reduce traffic congestion, make neighborhoods safe, and secure our border, I am committed to improving the quality of life. This includes providing for the needs of foster children, seniors, building a new library in Fallbrook, supporting Boys and Girls Clubs in North County, and more. I also support a business-friendly climate and recognize how important agriculture is to our County's economic engine.

As a former combat Marine, I know we must support our men and women in arms now, and provide for the well-being of our veterans.

I recently designated $25,000 from our Fifth District Community Projects Fund that will be used by HirePatriots.com. The web site is a free online service that provides part-time and fulltime jobs for military personnel (active or recently discharged) as well as their spouses. The funds will be used for a promotional campaign to spread the word about HirePatriots.com and also give citizens a superior alternative to hiring illegal immigrants for short-term or long-term jobs.

Another way we are using taxpayer's dollars to directly benefit the community is to address the heart-breaking problem of more than 50,000 seniors who are living below the poverty line in San Diego County. Many are too proud or dignified to seek help. Some sacrifice medication to buy food. Others suffer from malnutrition and related diseases.

I recently allocated $150,000 from our Community Project's Fund to the Angel's Depot. The organization, founded by Susan Hall and based in Vista will provide "Food for a Week Boxes" to seniors in need. Each container is packed with nutritionally balanced, nonperishable food. With the help of private contributions, Angel's Depot opens May 31.

I have the will, vision, and know-how to work with cities and unincorporated communities in the Fifth District to protect people and improve their well-being. I continue to support efforts to complete the triple border fence and require photo voter identification at the polls.

We have seen a lot accomplished in the last 12 years but there is still much to be done. All of the issues I support are dependent upon a financially healthy county. For nine years in a row, your County government has had one of the highest credit ratings in the nation. That is because of sound financial practices and the political will to carry them out. During my tenure at the County, Governing Magazine chose the County of San Diego as one of the best-run counties in the nation.

Some people think that patriotism is corny. I am proud of our military and I love the United States. It's the greatest nation on the earth. And this County is the greatest County in the State.

I ask for your support for another term as your North County Supervisor. Leadership is priceless. As partners, we have achieved much and with your help, the best is still to come.