Peninsula Community Association

Survey of Candidates - Manila Community Services District Board

Election November 6, 2007

-------------------------------------------------- Candidate Survey Manila Community Services District Board Elections Vote at the Manila Community Center Tuesday, November 6th: 7am to 8pm Over the past few weeks, a small group of Manila community members has been working together to generate a Candidate Survey so that Manila residents could become better informed about where each of the candidates stand on the critical issues facing Manila. Nine candidates (including three incumbents) are running for four seats. All of them responded to this Survey.

Here are their names, in the order in which we received their replies. Violet Glass, incumbent Dan Ihara Dendra Dengler, incumbent Susan Opalach Michael Fennell Joy Dellas Shelley Lima Wilathi Weaver, incumbent Robert (Bob) Rose We asked the candidates ten questions. In the pages that follow, you'll see their answers, batched together under each question heading. Please read through these pages carefully, so that you can determine which four candidates best represent YOUR vision for the future of our community. The vote is just days away. See you at the polls on Tuesday, November 6th. And if you want to get more involved in our community, please consider doing one or more of the following: * sign up to receive emails from Manila's own informational listserv by sending an email to: * attend MCSD board meetings at the Manila Community Center * join an MCSD board committee, or volunteer with a local MCSD project * (add your idea here!)

#1) How long have you lived in Manila?

Violet Glass: I have lived in Manila from a young girl to adulthood. Although i moved away for a few years, Manila has always been home for me. I'm a watson and i still have family here. I'm 45 and i have over 34 years here.

Dan Ihara: Thirty-six years since 1971. Except for two school years when I taught in Wisconsin and while I attended graduate school at the Univ of Oregon.

Dendra Dengler: I moved to Manila in 1974 as a student at H.S.U. and have lived here continuously, raising my family and working as well as volunteering in the community.

Susan Opalach: I have been closely involved with Manila for the past four years. My daughter attended school in Manila from 2004 to 2006. During that time I have made many friends through the Manila Community Center. ...I moved to Manila in August 2006. (Susan did not utilize the Q&A format we sent out, so please see her additional comments at the end of this guide.)

Michael Fennell: I ...have lived in Manila with my wife, Sharon for twenty years. I have served twice over the years on the MCSD board. I was a past financial officer. 1994-1998, 2003.

Joy Dellas: In 1978 I moved to Manila, with my husband at the time and my brother Tim, to attend Humboldt State University where I earned my degree in journalism and later my master's degree in Art. I have lived here ever since, although I took a couple trips to Europe during the past 30 years. I have become especially active in my community since I became a parent. (Joy did not utilize the Q&A format we sent out, so please see her additional comments at the end of this guide.)

Shelley Lima: I have lived in Manila since 2001. Wilathi Weaver: I have lived in Manila for 23 years. I moved here when I was 14 and went to High School at Arcata High, graduating 1988.

Robert (Bob) Rose: 30 years

#2) What are the most critical issues facing Manila today that you plan to try to tackle in your next term of office?

Violet Glass: Emergency Preparedness, Highway Safety, Repayment of past debts for mcc, Recreation, and the Manila Community Center. And I'm for restoration of the dunes but i think there might of been more awareness to the timing of the removal of the European Beach Grass closest to the shore line.

Dan Ihara: Having good, cost effective programs and services in compliance with relevant laws and accountable to the public.

Dendra Dengler: The first issue facing the newly elected Board will be to hire a competent, qualified General Manager with strong managerial and financial skills as well as water and sewer experience. The board has been working with a consultant, at no cost to the district, from Rural Communities Assistance Corporation in finding a qualified and competent general manager. Regulatory requirements are increasing and managing a special district as diverse as Manila is complex. This position has tremendous autonomy, as the board can only make decisions by a quorum of the board at a public meeting. The G.M. position is one of trust and requires a sense of duty to provide the board with objective, accurate information in a timely manner in order for good decision-making on the part of board members. * Ensure a healthy, safe supply of drinking water and sewage treatment by continuing on the path to financial stability and accountability that the current board has begun to set in motion for all programs within the District,. * Ensure the District adheres to all regulatory requirements, * To continue to improve the quality, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency of services and programs, * Maintain transparency and openness of decision making of the Board, * Review and update the Strategic Plan to bring the diverse voices of the community together.

Susan Opalach: As I see it, one of the most critical issues facing Manila is to hire a good District Manager, who is qualified in water and sewer. I think we need to improve the safety of Highway 255, providing safe riding and biking trails.

Michael Fennell: The most critical issue facing Manila is finding a General Manager to conduct the district's business. We have been without one for almost a year. Another issue is separating the sewer and water fees paid by customers like you, from the other activities of the district. This has been happening and is not legal. Please read the Grand Jury Report from a few years ago. Other issues include proper grant management, community center management, physical infrastructure that needs repair, and, the erosion of the dunes next to the community center.

Joy Dellas: If Manila continues much longer on the path it is going I can see us going into bankruptcy and having to be managed by some outside entity such as the board of supervisors. Or maybe those that can afford to live here will have to pay $200. month for water and sewer. It is vitally important that Manila get a handle on its finances and operations. MCSD has not been able to retain several managers, office staff, and EVEN the accountant has resigned during the past year. When an accountant won't even stay on board, that should set off some alarms that things are a huge mess. It is critical that community members (ratepayers) become informed and active in the district. I think we can use the internet to talk with each other about what we want to happen in our community. The internet is where the board agendas, minutes, surveys and other documents should be posted. If more people know what the questions are, know what the choices are, then I think we can make informed decisions about our community. I started a community website at a couple years ago. I would like to see the services district have its own website. Until that happens there are free website spaces such as this one, that can be used to facilitate better two-way communication between the board and the ratepayers.

Shelley Lima: One of the most critical issues facing the district is the absence of a general manager (in particular) with the skills to successfully manage staff and program protocol. I strongly believe that it is the board's responsibility to monitor the general manger for compliance with district policy and procedures. The water and sewer revenues need to stay in water and sewer. The water and sewer systems need to be maintained and have the $$ to do so, especially in an emergency situation. Other health and safety issues need to be a priority such as; keeping our water systems clean and pure and highway safety. Fiscal accountability is also an area of great concern at this point.

Wilathi Weaver: There are many critical issues that currently need much time, energy, and WORK. The most important issue is communication, between staff, Board, and the larger community. It is time for the Manila community to step up and move forward to work together as a whole. If we continue to be divided, polarized, and negative, then we might as well reconcile ourselves to selling out to the highest bidder. This negative current is fueled by ignorance, and the only cure is to educate and include everyone more. We have a lot to be thankful for, and when we are able to work together as Staff, Board, and Community, then this community will be able to lift itself from the difficulties it has suffered. We need to find time to write a newsletter to the public again, alerting everyone to current issues facing the district, and also opportunities in employment, and Special Events happening in the near future at the Community center, along with an Index of Programs offered at the Community Center and the hours they are open. There are many other aspects of Manila CSD that need attention. Some of the most important being procedure, policy, and a General Manager and Board that is willing to follow through on the information gathered. We need to make sure that we hire a General Manager that has a strong management background so that the GM is able to have effective oversight and is able to make sure staff is following policy and procedure. The GM also needs to have an understanding of plumbing and basic handyman abilities to be able to have oversight of important Utility and maintenance work that is needed in the district. The new GM also needs to be comfortable with following all current and new State and Federal regulations. The GM position needs to be able to create spreadsheets, and input data that updates itself, and keep on top of communication within and without the district using memos, writing formal letters, and emails. The GM needs to be able to multi-task enough to keep track of a dozen or more projects currently taking place in the district. We have the technology at the district all we need now is someone qualified who is willing to Work. A lot of work has happened this last year, but there is still a lot to do. I hope that the folks who get elected to this next board are dedicated to spending a good amount of time and energy creating the written procedure needed to create and keep order in the District Office, District facilities, Park, Community Center, and Administration of Grants. Many procedures and policies are in desperate need of upgrading.

Robert (Bob) Rose: Stop using water and sewer funds to support other programs.

#3) Do you support or oppose the current MCSD board's direction re water and sewer rate increases. Why? And what would YOU do to solve this critical shortfall in funds to pay for water and sewer infrastructure in the future?

Violet Glass: This water and sewer rate change was something that as i uderstand it, should of been many years ago and then there would not have been the state of affairs that we're now in with the high prices, and the deficit may have been something that could have been avoided because then the district would not have been supporting the community at cost with nothing going towards the future.

Dan Ihara: I support MCSD's bringing needed expenditures in line with actual revenue. It is not clear, without a manager or without office staff, whether that is, or is not, the case at present.

Dendra Dengler: The rate increase was a difficult and unpopular undertaking. Nevertheless, I support it; I voted for it. The rate increases should have started gradually in 1998 as stated in all audit findings. "The District had not complied with the requirements of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding user charges for the grant funded waste water treatment facility." The water system and sewer STEP system are aging. There are capital improvements that need to be made now and in the future to maintain the water and sewer system and to comply with state and federal laws. The cost of doing business is also increasing, such as employee health benefits, energy and other unavoidable expenses.

Susan Opalach: As was explained by the engineering team, rates for the sewer and water must increase. Although the rate increase is a hardship for my family, I think that we must pull together and make this work. (Susan did not utilize the Q&A format we sent out, so please see her additional comments at the end of this guide.)

Michael Fennell: I support an increase in water and sewer rates, but not as much as proposed by the current board. I think the raise is too aggressive, trying to catch up too quickly. The water and sewer budgets are unfairly forced to cover the management and overhead costs of the Community Center and Recreation programs. I will move to change that. If the rate payers wish to give money to the Community Center, perhaps we can provide a check off box on the bill and willing folks can kick in $5 a month.

Joy Dellas: Gee. I can't imagine why anyone would celebrate having their utility bill nearly double. I don't know anyone with an extra $350 per year to throw in on their water and sewer bills. A business cannot spend more than it takes in or it will go into debt. It needs to be determined how much it actually costs to supply water and sewer services to Manila. A lot of extra board meetings and lawyer fees and temporary personnel can really spend down ratepayer money and create an unclear picture of costs. Get an efficient operation running smoothly for awhile. Working with an accountant and the manager figure out how much to charge for monthly expenses plus an amount to set aside for future repairs and maintenance. I don't think it's possible to get a clear picture at this point. As for the reserves - when I moved here in 1978 there was over $200,000. in the contingency fund. Even at a small rate of interest that money should have quadrupled by now. What happened to it. Why is the community center owe something like $120.000?

Shelley Lima: I realize that it is time to raise the rates (inflation and cost of living increases), but this may be too much too soon. I would want to increase rates in smaller increments on a yearly or bi-yearly basis.

Wilathi Weaver: I completely support the rate increases. We have to start planning for the future replacement infrastructure now, before it is too late. If we are lucky, we will be able to limp along for a few years raising some extra money in the reserves before anything major needs replacing. It is too bad that this increase has not been more gradual over the years, so that it would not feel like such a hardship. Again, we are having to make up for past Board's inaction concerning the Health of our Utilities, as past minutes will show to anyone who bothers to look. There were many times when rate increases were suggested, both by the GM, and by the Auditor over the past decade. I definitely believe that the $2 to water and $3 to sewer CIP should be transferred monthly to a separate Bank account which has a higher interest rate and is clearly separated from any other working account of the district. I am hopeful that the 4 % increase per year will make up for the belatedness of this rate increase, and we will not have to suffer another big hike for many, many more years.

Robert (Bob) Rose: Stop using water and sewer funds to support other programs.

#4) What is your vision - five years in the future - for the Community Center? Do you see yourself participating in that vision? Please elaborate. And how does it differ from the current reality at the Center?

Violet Glass: My vision for the next five years includes the community center providing a place for our local kids and teens to have a safe and structured place to go and hang out and be able to do the things kids do. Because when i was a kid out here there was no kind of recreation for my generation and that left me to my own designs of things to do, which was usually riding horses with Ethel Kay who lived in the house Dan Edrich lives in know. I also spent a lot of time in that house. These two questions [#4 & 5] go together for me. Yes I see my self participating as i have for years to help support our MCC through fundraising events, special events, work and gardening days because i believe we have a real jewel in our community center and granted it needs some repairs and safety issues that are left from the AD-HOC Special Meetings. But I'm PROUD to say that there has been a majority of the projects completed and i was a big part of that.

Dan Ihara: MCSD has grown tremendously over the last two decades. Five years in the future I see Manila having good, cost effective programs and services in compliance with relevant laws and accountable to the public. It is not clear if that is the case at present.

Dendra Dengler: I envision the community center as a viable self-sustaining center where the community can come together for a variety of programs and events serving all ages. Currently there are no senior programs except for the monthly food bag program starting now. The community center is not self-sustaining in that the board, in past budgets, has allocated property tax revenue to community center budget and grants as opposed to rental income from the facilities use. I have participated in the planning process by volunteering on the Parklands, Recreation and Community Center Commission, Community Center Ad Hoc Committee, Manila Teenship Wellness Village Core Council and Strategic Planning for the District. I also volunteered many hours fixing up the two former preschool rooms and putting in the preschool playground, as well as planting trees and shrubs and fundraising activities. I will continue to participate. It has been a long, arduous process since the community center became part of the District to repair and fix-up the center and grounds. Repairs and improvements need to continue to be done on the exterior and interior of the buildings and grounds with a limited, but usually grant-funded budget. I had hoped that with the return of property taxes, that were shifted to the State for two years, needed repairs could be made in the main hall and kitchen resulting in an increased renting of the hall, however those monies are and will be used for debt repayment. I would support facilitating a community goals and planning session to chart a clear set of use guidelines and aims for the future.

Susan Opalach: I support the community center because of the good programs that my two youngest children benefit from. Since I have been volunteering, I have seen so many people in the community coming to the community center, who are committed to making our community a great place to live, involving their families and spending their time in healthy activities. Michael Fennell: I hope to see the Community Center operating quality programs. Fresh paint and new siding is needed. I think there should be a gym for people to exercise and get healthy. There should be no smoking on school grounds. We should operate in the black.

Joy Dellas: I think the community center should be a place to bring the community together. It shouldn't cost much to have a pancake breakfast or a potluck now and then. A citizens committee might be helpful to chart the course of the community center at no expense to the district. I would like to see such a committee partner with local agencies and community services such as Samoa Fire Department, Peninsula Elementary School and Humboldt Senior Resource Center and Food for People (just to name a few) to discuss unmet needs in the community. I hope some of you readers will consider becoming involved in this endeavor.

Shelley Lima: I want to cultivate an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect that builds on what is already working. Wilathi Weaver: I see the community center continuing to grow and change over time. I see a few more tenants taking advantage of our low rent once we fix the electricity and lighting. I see a community center where all the income and expense statements are clear, concise, and easy for any community member to understand, because we have created a Grant spreadsheet that makes tracking easy. I see a healthy district where all the Budgets for the district are strictly followed and there is quarterly oversight of the Budget that is is reported to the Board by the GM and by all the program managers to the Board every 3 months. I see a board that has a finance officer that actually follows MCSD financial procedure, and tracks the spending of the district, and also reports monthly to the Board. I see a Community Center where the Manila Community feels welcome to plant seeds of sustainability and health for the betterment of the whole community. I see it as a thriving epicenter for the community, where people come together to celebrate their diversity and what they love about Manila.

Robert (Bob) Rose: For the Community Center to be self supporting. [Do you see yourself participating in that vision?] Yes. Water and sewer are essential to life. The Community Center is a great and wonderful dream, but we must not spend the public's water and sewer money to support this dream. It is against the law. Currently the board of directors are spending water and sewer money on the community center and saying the reverse is truth.

#5) Do you support or oppose the continuation of the Community Center's many programs for kids and teens? Why?

Violet Glass: (Violet's answer to#4, above, includes her answer to this question.)

Dan Ihara: I support good, cost effective programs and services in compliance with relevant laws and accountable to the public. Having an effective general manager should go a long way to seeing that this is the case.

Dendra Dengler: I support the programs for teens and children. I remember when there were no programs for the teens and the associated problems with that. There was a much greater rate of high school dropouts and more vandalism in the community. Now, the teens have a place to go in the evenings and can plan dances and events. The recreation program provides a safe place for children in the afternoon and during the summer vacations with educational, recreational and nutritional activities, including swimming and surfing lessons, backpacking and camping. The MTWV Family Resource Center provides services and activities for young children (0-5) and families. These services are more vital now that Manila Preschool has closed in preparing young children for school readiness. Although I strongly support these programs, I am equally strongly committed to fiscal accountability and making sure money collected for water and sewer is not used for such programming.

Susan Opalach: (Susan's answer to #4, above, includes her answer to this question.)

Michael Fennell: I support quality programs for kids, teens and adults. All current programs need to be evaluated to see if they still serve our needs. Staff should be hired by merit, not cronyism.

Joy Dellas: Please see above. However - one thing I notice here. There is a real lack of organized sports on the peninsula. We have some great areas for basketball (indoor too!), soccer, softball, volleyball etc. but no leagues or regular drop in events. After over 20 years of having a parks and recreation program why don't we have any sport offerings?

Shelley Lima: My background is in managing and supervising programs that work with at-risk children and families. I want to see well run programs that meet individual needs of families and support the well being of our community. I support programs that offer environments that model appropriate behaviors and stimulate learning.

Wilathi Weaver: I completely support the programs for the children and young adults, because if we don't create a safe and nurturing environment for them to belong, then they will act like humans do when they don't feel welcome - rebellious. I prefer my kid hanging out at the computer lab rather than in the middle of the road, as has been the case for many decades here in Manila.

Robert (Bob) Rose: I support the community's many programs. JUST NOT using water and sewer's money to do it.

#6) Do you support or oppose adding fluoride to our community's water supply? Why?

Violet Glass: I firmly oppose fluoride going into our local water supply, because there are a great many sources of fluoride available to kids and their parents - Fluoride tooth paste, mouth wash, bottled water w/fluoride at the market, and then there are the drops and pills from the dentist. And as i understand it fluoride is not a good thing for us older people because it may cause porosity of our bones and when you're already looking at arthritis and osteoporosis affecting some of us, thats not a good combination for our bodies to handle.

Dan Ihara: The public needs to be informed and to discuss the relevant information. What would it cost to have an election? If Humboldt Municipal Water District fluoridated the water supply, would MCSD have to pay to have it de-flouridated, if it chose not to have fluoride in its water? What are the pros and cons of adding fluoride?

Dendra Dengler: I have tried to remain in a neutral position as a Board member on the fluoride issue. I have read the pros and cons of fluoride and hope that everyone will do the same. I personally am opposed to adding fluoride to water because more evidence is coming to light about its possible harmful effects. However, I feel strongly that this is an issue that individual residents should become informed about, really informed, and VOTE on. As a board member, I introduced a resolution supporting a ballot advisory measure for the issue to come before the voters in February, which hopefully will be approved at this Thursday's adjourned meeting of the Manila board. If fluoride is added to our water source the minimal cost I have seen projected is $38,000.00 for Manila's share and no projection for removing it and disposal of a toxic waste has been made. Whatever the outcome of a VOTE of our community, I would support that vote as a board member and representative of our community, if re-elected.

Susan Opalach: I am very committed to the health of my family and community. I consider fluoride a poison, and would not like it in our drinking water. Michael Fennell: The decision on adding fluoride should be made by a vote of all the customers, not the opinion of the board members. I neither fear nor propose its use.

Joy Dellas: I have done a fair amount of study on fluoride (several hours of reading BOTH pro and con) and while after a brief conversation with my doctor I was for it - I am not ENTIRELY convinced, though I try not to make a regular practice of disagreeing with my health care providers. I put a few top ranking websites on fluoride on the website . When I look around low income areas and see so many missing teeth I have to ask, "Is this a result of little or no dental treatment, not brushing at all? not brushing with fluoride, or is it meth mouth?" I know I sure wish I didn't get so many cavities as a child (we had well water). In adult life these cavities turn into root canals, crowns, and bridges if you are fortunate enough to be able to beg, borrow or steal dental care or missing teeth if not. It is very difficult to get a decent job or feel half way good about yourself and your appearance if you are missing a few teeth. Never mind the brain grinding pain along the way to that not-so-toothy smile. My own son has been to a dentist once in 11 years and fortunately has no cavities yet. Perhaps this is attributed to the fluoride tablets his doctor once prescribed or fluoride in the toothpaste. (It's not due to his regular and careful brushing!!) His school has participated in Americorp and College of the Redwoods Dental Program offerings which include dental hygiene, fluoride rinses, and application of dental sealants. Perhaps if this type of program were offered to all children it might be enough to make a significant contribution toward their dental health. (Joy's answer continues at length. See the rest of it at the end of this guide.)

Shelley Lima: I do not support the use of flouride. First off, I do not want someone else putting something in my water that may be hazardous to my health. What's next - birth control? antidepressants?? geez, let me make my own choices and let those who want fluoride purchase fluoride toothpaste and or drops. I am of the belief that good oral health starts at home.

Wilathi Weaver: I believe it should be left up to a community ballot, and decided by the voters of Manila. My personal opinion is why add a known poison to our water, to benefit such a small section of our community, when there is any uncertainty at all about its possible harmful effects. I tend to lean toward the cautious side when it comes to safety, I would rather not take a chance on the long term health of my family on any additive that has even a shade of doubt. Especially when you think of all the misconceptions we, as an American Society, have experienced historically concerning so many horrible chemical substances and how truly poisonous they were to us, even as we were deceived.

Robert (Bob) Rose: Personally no, not from what I have researched so far. But would like to support the peoples view, wants and needs. Let's hear from the public.

#7) Did you support or oppose the Redevelopment plans from the County? Why?

Violet Glass: I fought very hard against Redevelopment. I don't want my home town to go to the dogs so to speak. I went to the meetings here at the MCC when Kirk Girard staked his claims and i will say he has two sides of his stories - the one he told us community members and the one he told at the Board of Supervisor meetings and he flat lies.

Dan Ihara: I supported the Redevelopment District proposed by the County because it would have made redevelopment bond funding more readily available at lower cost for improvements in Manila.

Dendra Dengler: I opposed the Redevelopment plans because they were based on faulty data and 80% of the property taxes the District receives from the state would be taken for up to 45 years. Only 40% of our tax monies would be targeted specifically for Manila. The other 60% of tax monies could be used in the five other areas in the redevelopment program. Manila would have had one representative, appointed by the County Board of Supervisors, on an advisory committee to the Redevelopment Agency, and therefore have no real voice or control over how our property taxes would be spent. Since that time, projects that proponents of redevelopment said would not be accomplished without redevelopment have moved forward, such as infrastructure improvements for Willow Creek and Orick.

Susan Opalach: Manila should never become an overcrowded community and I support the decision of this community in its vote against the redevelopment plans of the County. I do not support large development in Samoa, either.

Michael Fennell: Redevelopment is a dead issue. It's funny to see the question here. I supported moving forward with redevelopment planning, while reserving the right to decline later in the process. The main benefit as I saw it was the availability of CDB Grants to fix up aging housing and the community center that could be offered if we were in the redevelopment zone.

Joy Dellas: One of the main reasons I supported redevelopment was that it looked like a promising opportunity to pay for sewer/water infrastructure maintenance and improvement. Other reasons were grants/low income loans for solar panels and other sustainable energy sources and home weatherization upgrades; funding for roadside trails, zoning improvements in favor of home-based businesses such as bookstores, art studios and wood shops as well as mother-in-law units. Mother-in-law units are becoming very popular as a way to remain at home as we age while at the same time providing a place for a caretaker to reside. Many of us out here are looking for ways to decrease the high cost of propane heating and mitigate the safety issues and environmental detriment of wood heat. Additionally, funding was targeted for improvements to the community center.

Shelley Lima: Each town has its own unique demographics and needs. Growth and development will happen.

Wilathi Weaver: I did not support Redevelopment because I felt like all the tax income increases that Manila was finally going to benefit from, because of the new development taking place in our community, were going to be siphoned off to feed other communities in the County. I feel this way because instead of our duly elected representatives on the MCSD Board getting to choose where to spend the increasing tax income in our community, our County Supervisors would be deciding where best to spend everyone's money in the county as a whole. I figure after smelling the stink from the pulpmills for so many years, and not having the speed limit lowered after the Safety Corridor was opened, plus fighting off a waste transfer station and a Liquified Natural Gas plant from being developed on our Peninsula, and seeing my personal property not even listed as a residence on the redevelopment maps, I have a hard time believing that the Larger Community is really looking out for Manila very well. I prefer that my tax dollars stay in my community.

Robert (Bob) Rose: I need to spend more time in researching this.

#8) Have you contributed/volunteered your time with district projects? If so, please elaborate.

Violet Glass: As you have read through my answers you will find that yes i have been a long time volunteer - Peninsula clean-up, and just about any event you will find me there.

Dan Ihara: For many years I volunteered on the Manila Community Association and on the MCSD Board. As a volunteer I initiated the successful efforts to add park services to MCSD's powers, thus enabling the district in run the park, community center and dunes projects. I want to work to see that these services are managed cost-effectively and provide good, safe services accountable to the public.

Dendra Dengler: So as not to repeat myself, see question 4, paragraph 2 above. I have volunteered with the recreations' many programs and as a parent educator at the MTWV Family Resource Center, fundraising, at a variety of community center events including Peninsula Clean Up, representing the District at Humboldt Bay Community Services District Task Force and Board meetings, Coastal Conservancy, General Plan, County Board of Supervisor and Planning Commission meetings, supporting Samoa Peninsula Fire District at meetings. I also served as a Board member of the California Special Districts Association. I have attended numerous trainings on roles and responsibilities of board members, governance, human resources, finance and fiscal responsibility, emergency response preparedness and planning, as well as operations and maintenance of small systems. I have volunteered on 4 committees of the Board..... Additionally, I attended many meetings held by other agencies to speak out on issues affecting our community, such as the proposed waste transfer station on the peninsula, the water bag proposal, and the LNG plant.

Susan Opalach: I have volunteered and contributed on a regular basis over four years for many events and activities: Multicultural Festival, Lantern Walk, Halloween, Thanksgiving Dinners, Holiday Party, Seed and Plant Exchange, Dancing in the Dunes, and the Medieval Festival. I taught a weekly yoga class for the past two years and prepared healthy foods for the participants. (Susan did not utilize the Q&A format we sent out, so please see her additional comments at the end of this guide.)

Michael Fennell: I have volunteered countless hours over the last 15 yrs. I was active in the acquisition of the Community center and dunes area, I worked on the design of the sewage treatment plant, and attended the traffic studies and the strategic planning a few years back.

Joy Dellas: I'm sure I can safely say I have devoted several hundred volunteer hours to my community. ... Here is something from my SmartVoter page. My Early Involvement with the Community Center I was on the community center acquisition committee back in the early 90's. A small group of us knew the old school was up for sale so we worked on a plan for it and procured funding through the Coastal Conservancy. So many years later I look at the place with disappointment. Sure there a lot of good things there - it's nice to see a place where people can park so they can walk their dogs or children to the beach. I had hopes that the center would be the hub of our community. So many people have become alienated from there though. There is a very, very small group that uses the center; practically "owns" the center - and this precludes most other uses and possibilities for the space. I saw the center as a place to "build" community rather than a vehicle for dividing community. All of that aside - as a condition of the acquisition, a promise was made to the community (ratepayers) that the center would never receive any revenue from water and sewer funds. Unfortunately that promise has been broken and we need to work together to repair the damage that has been done and to restore trust in the management. My Experience with the Parks Commission: This was a disaster for all sorts of reasons. I became interested in helping out when I enrolled my son in the after-school program at the center. The first thing that disturbed me and still does is that the children were driven around by assorted people with questionably safe automobiles and undisclosed driving records and other problematic details. While drug testing might seem like an invasion of privacy for some, I believe it is essential for people that are in charge of transporting others, especially children. If a bad accident occurred on Manila's watch it could take the district down; not to mention the human trauma. I tried to see a clear transportation policy implemented and was unable. I also suggested that the center contract with Redwood Transit bus service for specific needs - as I had noticed that Arcata Parks and Recreation does for ALL their child transportation needs. Needless to say, my son only spent about a week in Manila Parks and Recreation, and my service on the Parks and Recreation commission was short. (Joy's answer continues at length. See the rest of it at the end of this guide.)

Shelley Lima: I served on the parks and recreation commission for a period of time. I attended and participated in various activities sponsored by the community center including cleaning up hazardous waste and debris from the premises.

Wilathi Weaver: I have contributed so much time to the district that I am honestly not even sure if I want to be elected again, because I am exhausted. We have been meeting weekly, I have been doing work from home on my computer to write job descriptions, procedure, sample forms, and other overflow work from the district that has been created with the quitting of our former GM, Judy. I have recently been volunteering at the district office itself to fill in for the Account Clerk position, until we are able to find someone trustworthy and computer competent to hire. I have a long past of volunteering for community events and activities. I unfortunately have been working so hard for the district that I really have barely had time to fill out this survey.

Robert (Bob) Rose: I have attended most of the Board Meetings for many years. My objective has always been to supply visability to the public, bring them the information regarding board actions.

#9) How active have you been in the past with the local residents' group which has been working on traffic calming for Highway 255? What solutions do you propose to make the highway more safe as it passes through our community?

Violet Glass: I must admit this is a serious subject that needs the whole community to come together and in force to have our voices heard because i don't think that Caltrans and other agencies are listening to us - the few of us who have put in recommendations and worked on the planning for our highway 255 solutions - and if any one wants to know what they are i believe a copy is at the district office. I think the speed limit should be the same as on highway 101. Then the people that like to go faster have no choice but to drive 50 mph across either highway.

Dan Ihara: I have submitted testimony regarding the proposed improvements on 101 between Arcata and Eureka. I feel it is important for MCSD to focus on what are its primary responsibilities - otherwise it jeopardizes the basic services it is responsible for.

Dendra Dengler: I have been involved with the Traffic Safety Committee and am currently the board representative on the committee. I participated in numerous meetings with CalTrans, PlanWest and county representatives. We have had two walkability study/walks with CalTrans, etc., resulting in repainting lines and new reflectors and a greater understanding of the issues. The board recently adopted and sent a resolution regarding the impact the planned work on Highway 101 will have on our community and Hwy. 255. I feel the Manila Community Transportation Plan adopted by the board contains solutions to make the highway safer; however, funding is the problem. One easy solution to some of the problems would be to reduce the speed limit which residents have been requesting ever since I moved here.

Joy Dellas: I painted most of the signs that were posted along the highway urging people to slow down in our town. I also helped write a grant for the the Community Transportation Plan that was put together by W-Trans, Planwest and Alta Planning Design in 2003. The plan that was generated from this will be used to identify improvements by Cal-Trans if and when funding is designated for this. If you would like to see a copy of the report you can obtain one from Manila Community Services District with a written request and a waiting period of approximately two weeks. The price for printing is 50 cents per page and the document is approx. 100 pages. The waiting period might be longer now, since the district doesn't have any office staff. Or possibly you can go to website and request a pdf file. I have requested a digital copy of the plan so that I can post it on . >From my Smartvoter.org page: Traffic Safety I have always been concerned about the dangerous highway bisecting Manila. Long ago at a board meeting a man from Cal-Trans came and in so many words said "more people would have to die out there in order for any changes to be made." I helped write a grant back around 2001 which was used to create a plan for highway improvements. The plan is what will be used if and when any changes are ever made. I am personally afraid for myself or my son to walk along the highway or ride my bike there, or cross the highway to go to the park. In 2002 I painted some signs including "please slow down in our town" and "voluntary 45 m.p.h. zone", which a few wonderful community members assisted in hanging from some trees on the North side of town near the railroad tracks. Unfortunately those signs have disappeared. We also put up signs on the south side along the tracks but they disappeared right away. My feeling now is that a group of us with weedeaters, machetes, rakes, etc. should walk along the cal-trans easement between Lupin and Pacific and forge an off-highway trail ourselves.

Shelley Lima: I would like to see the speed limit posted at 50 MPH. More signage is needed and safe crossings established. I would implement (as proposed in the Community Transportation Plan), the use of "roundabouts" to slow traffic down and safely cross the highway.

Wilathi Weaver: I have been to at least one Highway safety planning meeting with the community at large. I forgot the name of the event, Cal Trans was there, and I remember being very proud of my community and the input people had to give. I think lowering the speed limit, and creating better turn lanes and entry/exit lanes for the highway are the most important steps to making it safer. I also think a pedestrian walk, equipped with a red or yellow bright blinking light, at a central crossing spot for highway 255, would be helpful also.

Robert (Bob) Rose: I think this is CalTrans concerns. We should not focus on less essentcial issues. We have water and sewer to focus on.

#10) Do you support or oppose the massive housing development that is being proposed for Samoa? Why?

Violet Glass: I oppose the massive housing development because they are going to try to put houses where wetlands are, and there will be nothing for our wildlife to be able to be sustained. And if we lose that we've lost more than just a place to live.

Dan Ihara: This is another example of how easily MCSD can get distracted from its primary responsibilities. We currently have no General Manager for the District or office staff person. Having effective management is the top priority. The District needs to focus on this. Once the District has this basic responsibility fulfilled it can determine how best to provide relevant input to the housing development proposed for Samoa.

Dendra Dengler: My major concern currently would be how it would affect traffic on Highway 255 which in turn directly affects all of our community members. I believe it is in the community's interest for board members to concern themselves with matters that have the potential to affect quality of life in Manila. I also recognize that board members need to distinguish when speaking as an individual, or when delegated the authority by the board through the public meeting process to speak for the board and the community at large. I believe the Manila board has an opportunity, through public meeting process, to be a voice on matters that extend beyond local boundaries.

Susan Opalach: .....I do not support large development in Samoa, either.

Michael Fennell: I attended early review sessions on the Samoa Development. I spoke out against the density of the project and its impact on Manila Traffic. This really is a citizens' campaign and not the exact business of the board, but the board can help facilitate the community efforts when appropriate.

Joy Dellas: I don't know enough about this to comment on it at this time. Use of the word "massive" seems kind of like a leading question so I think the asker is looking for a "no" here. I don't make up my mind easily and I don't expect others to do so either. I think there are a lot of things to consider when looking at Samoa. My first thought is that I would like to look for common ground with Samoa's leaders and work from there. It is somewhat of a challenge to have two different county supervisors representing such a small geographic area; especially one as unique as a peninsula. I see that by finding ways we can work together on the peninsula we will have more control over our region than by looking for places to disagree. As far as the highway goes the biggest problems are speeders and overfull chip trucks blowing windshield cracking chips out. If the speed were lowered and people drove carefully (observing speed limits, pedestrians, intersections, and using their lights in the fog and rain) then it doesn't matter whether they are driving through Manila on their way home from Eureka, or Arcata, or Samoa, or Fairhaven.

Shelley Lima: Some of the concerns that I have are the impact on the environment and the increase of traffic flow. I also see that some housing increase could have a positive impact in supporting a vital environment and economy.

Wilathi Weaver: I am ok with development as long as Manila's highway safety concerns are mitigated. I do think that too much development on a peninsula, when everyone is predicting higher waters in the near future, is a little insane, but then again I live here too.

Robert (Bob) Rose: I am not running for the board in Samoa

* What follows are various additional comments made by some of the candidates which either did not fit into the Q&A format which was requested of them, or which were exceptionally lengthy replies. We did our best to not cut out a single word of anyone's answers, even when they didn't follow the requested format.

Dan Ihara: Each of the candidates running for the MCSD Director positions is an individual. One thing I, Joy Dellas, Michael Fennell and Shelley Lima are agreed upon is that we want the District to have "good, cost-effective programs and services in compliance with relevant laws and accountable to the public." Susan Opalach: My vision is to provide leadership through good communication and integrity with honesty. ...I moved to Manila in August 2006 and happily began serving on the Manila Parks Commission. As president of the Commission, I feel comfortable with protocol and feel that I would provide leadership and integrity on the MCSD board. I have been attending MCSD board meetings and I really appreciate the board members for all of the hard work they have done, despite all of the slander that a few misinformed people constantly sling at them to no avail. ...I believe that the present board is going in the right direction. ...As a mother and homemaker, I feel that I have time to devote to the position of board member for MCSD. My vision for Manila over the next five years is to support and continue the hard work and direction that the board has provided and move forward on critical issues facing Manila with an active, intelligent, and creative approach. Thank you for your support and your vote. Michael Fennell: It really is good to see so much interest in the MCSD election. I hope this interest carries forward and folks get involved and participate in the monthly tedious business of the district. Several members of the present board have worked very hard at trying to keep things afloat at the district. The fact that the work was precipitated by the board's failure to hire a manager for the last year, doesn't negate the hard work that they did. I can appreciate and honor their labor while disagreeing with the policies and results. ...Although I am running with other candidates as a slate, we have differing views on some things, and no set opinions on others. I think it is important to be open to public opinion and stay flexible. The Board represent a sometimes contentious and passionate public, which can be healthy if conducted in good faith. This is a great community to live in with great potential. Let's make it together. Thank you.

Joy Dellas: You can read my candidate statement at smartvoter.org: . The other things that take up most of my time are my son, Demetri - age 10, my garden, and my art, which you can see at: . (This is the conclusion of Joy's answer to the question about fluoride in our water supply:) I invite all of you to submit information, websites, etc. on this or any other issues via this listserv. You can sign up to participate in the online discussion at and here is something I posted on the discussion board of - Oct 25, 2007 I've looked at Doctor's without Borders, The World Health Organization, Center for Disease Control, Dental Association, The Open Door Clinic, Mobile Medical Clinic, and even the ACLU as well as the first pages that come up in google searches. It's a tough problem. No one wants anything added to their water. Probably not even chlorine. It seems partly a clash of different cultures. The public health culture - the greater good for the most people and holistic health (personal responsibility). As a Democrat realizing that the health care crisis might get a Whole Lot Worse - I am inclined to agree with the public health people. I haven't googled the stats on how many people (children) get regular dental care now vs. 20 years ago but I suspect the numbers are going down fairly drastically. I try to use holistic treatments and good sense and care with my own health so I want to know if added fluoride is good/bad/neutral for me. If I thought it would help my neighbors but I didn't want it, then I would drink bottled water or buy a filtration system. I wouldn't even consider it for a nanosecond if I KNEW it was bad for me OR my neighbors. And if there is such a thing as scientific information without a bias this is where I would like to find it.

(This is the conclusion of Joy's answer to the question about volunteering for District projects:) .....Just one of my passions is internet technology - which I have worked on in behalf of the community. I think we can use the internet to talk with each other about what we want to happen in our community. The internet is where the board agendas, minutes, surveys and other documents should be posted. If more people know what the questions are, know what the choices are, then I think we can make informed decisions about our community. I started a community website a couple years ago. I would like to see the services district have its own website. Until that happens there are free website spaces such as this one, that can be used to facilitate better two-way communication between the board and the ratepayers. I served on the committee that put together the Ad Hoc report for the district which was initiated by Jerry Martien. I have posted a copy of the report on . The report identified problems and solutions for the district; which were later echoed in the Betsy Watson report, the Grand Jury report and the Strategic Plan. If the district were actively following the recommendations that have been made over and over again, then I think we would be financially sound and well run. On the bright side, I think that if some fresh energy sets to work implementing the recommendations the district can be back on its feet in a few months. We are fortunate to have a lot of the ground work already done in the ad hoc report and the strategic plan. I started a newsletter called "Peninsula Voice" when I heard the district was going to raise the permit fee to hook up to water and sewer from $4000. to $18,000. I remind you - that is just for the permission - to hook up service. I circulated the newsletter and some 70 + homeowners bought the permits before the rates went up. What kind of board would do that? How in touch are they with the community? How is someone going to afford putting a mother-in-law unit on their property if they have to pay almost $20,000. for a piece of paper? My Enthusiasm for Technology as a Forum for Public Discussion: Another reason I resigned from the Manila Parks and Recreation Commission is that I met with so much difficulty when I tried to set up a website for the district. A listserv, donated by and hosted by Manila resident, Grace Kerr, is available which you can subscribe to and/or read the archives. I was the administrator of manila@coastcleaners.com listserv for the past 2 years. If you would like to view the archives or subscribe you can go to: Peninsula Community Association I have also started a free website at . I called it Peninsula Community Association because I think all peninsula residents share similar concerns. Somewhat complicating the issue is that, even though we live on a small peninsula, we have two different county supervisors representing us. I was a California Artist in Residence for one year. During that time I was an up-close observer of the workings at the community center. One of the problems with being an artist in residence is that there were so few people there to do art with. And, I might add, I was one of two artists-in-residence at the time. I was being paid $1200 per month of taxpayer money to work with about 5 kids a week. The other artist did not even show up for work at all (she was supposed to be working with community members as well at the same rate of pay.) This seemed to me like a horrendous waste of taxpayer's money and possibly even fraud. While it wasn't necessarily Manila's money being spent on the residency program, it seemed indicative of bad management to me. During this time I was appointed to the Parks and Recreation Commission, which I later resigned from. Unfortunately the district has very little public outreach for its projects, programs, etc. There are a lot of programs available there that few people know about. According to the strategic plan, the outreach factor was supposed to have changed but I haven't seen any evidence of that. -------------------------------------------------------------------

This Candidate Survey was conceptualized, assembled, proofread, and formatted by Manila resident Paul Cienfuegos, with invaluable help from Tim Ayres and Aryay Kalaki. Many local residents offered helpful suggestions to make it better. Tim Ayres and Aryay Kalaki coordinated the distribution of this Guide to all Manila households, with the incredible and speedy assistance of Gordy Anderson. Postage costs donated by Manila residents. Kevin Hoover uploaded this entire Survey to the web version of the Arcata Eye. Thanks to all!!! Please feel free to offer feedback (positive or critical)

to Paul at  PO Box 27 Arcata CA 95518