WANTED: "SMART VOTERS"

By Leroy J. Saunders

Smart Voters = Happy Rate Payers!

Regardless of who wins the election, there are some basic issues that will need addressing. The fact that so many of our Rate Payers see the District as an "adversary" is counterproductive to the aforementioned partnership. That perception needs to be, rather - SHOULD HAVE BEEN, addressed a long time ago. That ball is in the District's court. The only way one can alter the perception another has of oneself, is to get an understanding as to what preempted the erroneous perception in the first place. The question needs to be, "WHY do the Rate Payers feel this way? WHY do they have this perception of me?" Then, "What can I do, as a District representative, to change it?"

Well, now we're half way there now!

In the Rate Payer's court bounces the ball of "availability". Twice a month the EVMWD Board of Directors meets in Board Chambers. The general public is welcome to attend not only the Thursday evening Board Meetings, but the Wednesday morning Study Sessions that micromark the agenda for the upcoming Board Meeting. It is during these meetings and sessions, that a thorough understanding of what is taking place can be obtained.

If both "players" handle the ball that is in their respective courts, the Rate Payer's will no longer view the District as an "adversary", but, they will see them as an "advocate".

An "intimate" knowledge of eachother's position relating to the issues at hand, both large and small, will foster a working relationship between the District and the Rate Payers that will result in probing questions, honest answers and no hidden agenda. Additionally, the Voice of the Rate Payer will become more of a determining factor in deciding the direction in which the District will move. At which point there will be added "teeth" to the Rate Payer's bite, and a firmer grip to the District's handshake.

In conclusion, I must declare that there is hope on the horizon. Interacting with both Rate Payer's and District representatives during the year has proven to be educational and interesting, to say the least. I have been thoroughly impressed with many of the people I have encountered from both walks of "Waterworld". The integrity, leadership, diplomacy and charisma of General Manager, Ron Young is of the highest corporate quality. He is comfortable in any setting, he is knowledgable beyond most imaginations, and he is "heat sensitive" - knowing when to take charge and set things in order and yet prudent enough to smile while doing so. My opponent for this election, the Incumbent -Phil Williams, is also extremely knowledgable in water-related issues. He's involved and a part of enough accronymical "watertic" groups to compose a business letter. To top it off, he's one heck of a nice guy. The staff at the District are proficient, professional and polite. The secretaries, the engineer, the Public Relations Manager - Greg Morrisson will answer your questions and take the time to provide you with an understanding of "the world according to EVMWD".

At the other end of the spectrum, it is impossible to not marvel at the tenacity of some of the Rate Payers. Relentless, determined, perservering and, also knowledgable. There are many legitimate concerns that can be addressed at the local representative (Division Director) level. The nucleus of this proactive Rate Payer group can be seen, and heard, at just about every Board Meeting, Study Session and special meeting that is scheduled. Which brings me to my conclusion: "ME".

I envision myself as the "catylist". I believe I can exercise the "wisdom" to effectively utilize the myriad of resources, both human and natural, to bring about a more effective, efficient, Rate Payer "friendly" District. All of the knowledge, and resources, in the world are of little value when not properly and effectively applied. Right here, enters wisdom - "The practical application of that knowledge and resources" which will bring about a transformation of a dysfunctional District/Rate Payer partnership into a finely tuned working model of efficiency.

The voice of the Rate Payer must be listened to. The direction of the District must be determined by definition. The dollars of the Rate Payer must be appropriatly applied and accounted for. The actions of the District must be disclosed, The Rate Payers of the District must become more involved.

I, Leroy Saunders, can make it happen!