Letters: Prop. 36 | EBRPD Board of Directors

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The prop. 36 would cancel
crucial justice reforms

Subject: “Officials rally behind Proposition 36” (page B1, September 28).

Officials rallying behind Proposition 36 overlook how the measure could reverse years of progress and saddle Californians with high and unnecessary costs.

Prison spending nearly bankrupted California before Proposition 47, which Proposition 36 seeks to undermine. If we prioritize things that are proven to prevent crime, like education, social services, housing, and mental health, we will achieve public safety that is authentic, not just an illusion.

Proposition 36 ignores data showing that increasing incarceration does not effectively reduce crime or recidivism. It costs $132,860 a year to incarcerate someone – money that would be better invested in programs that actually prevent crime.

Studies show that stable employment reduces recidivism by 60%, but Proposition 36 provides no resources for workforce development. It also threatens to reverse the progress of Proposition 47, which saved more than $800 million while funding successful reentry programs.

Voters should reject Proposition 36 and demand smarter policies that prioritize prevention over punishment.

George Galvis
Oakland

Lynda Deschambault
for the East Bay Parks Board

The East Bay Regional Parks District needs a board of directors that understands the complexity of the issues facing the parks and has a clear vision of how to solve them. Lynda Deschambault, an environmental scientist with over 37 years of experience (20 at EPA), is uniquely qualified to serve Ward 2 and EBRPD. Lynda is no stranger to the challenges EBRPD faces: she has been a member of the Parks Advisory Committee for six years.

I met Lynda when I was a student at Saint Mary’s College. Working for Lynda’s environmental nonprofit allowed me to directly apply the knowledge I learned in my environmental science classes to the real world. Lynda is a passionate and knowledgeable climate champion, committed to protecting our environment and mentoring young people from diverse backgrounds. Lynda is the obvious choice for Ward 2 and EBRPD.

Jency James
Concord

Elect Belle La for
Pleasant Hill Council

Let’s elect a leader who not only has the qualifications for Pleasant Hill City Council, but also has deep ties to our community.

Belle La, a senior financial analyst at the UCSF School of Medicine, has a proven track record of solving complex financial challenges. His experience as a contract analyst for San Francisco County demonstrates his ability to effectively manage policies and contracts. What sets Belle apart is her dedication to the residents of District 1: she shows up at community events and actively engages with residents.

Belle’s commitment to representing everyone and bridging political divides is clear through her inclusive and community-oriented approach, focusing on issues that truly impact our lives. She is ready to preserve the unique character of Pleasant Hill while uniting our city for a stronger future.

Choosing Belle La means choosing experience, dedication and a voice for all. Vote Belle La.

Cherie Salonga
Pleasant hill

Prop. 4 goes further
benefits of climate control

Finally, the park fire is out… two months and 430,000 acres later, and near my old alma mater, Chico State.

This is becoming the new normal, but help could be on the way in the form of the state’s Proposition 4, legislative statute and bonding measure on the November ballot.

The Inflation Reduction Act and bipartisan Infrastructure Act were a good start to a more climate-resilient California, which Proposition 4 could and should pursue.

We are still at the beginning of sustainability, but the economic benefits of sustainability and equity are already visible. As a former wildlife biologist and land conservation advocate, I like what I’ve heard about the state’s Proposition 4. Look for yourselves, voters.

Eric Ferry
Berkeley

Antioch should keep
Amtrak station open

Subject: “Residents fight to keep Amtrak station open” (Page B1, September 24).

The Antioch Amtrak station has been a staple of our community since 1995. Hearing that they want to close the station is truly sad and could affect hundreds of people who use it.

I understand that the strong presence of the homeless community that has formed there has affected the safety and comfort of passengers. If the city implemented armed security patrols day and night, it would reduce much of the squatting. This would make riders feel safer and more willing to stand outside on the beautiful lawn and enjoy the beautiful water view, instead of sitting in their cars waiting.

If you feel the same way I do, passionate about keeping the station open for convenience, we should write or attend our next city council meeting.

Destiny Swain
Antioch

Arkin, Brown and Gaidos
for Pleasanton Council