Letters to the editor: Firefighters group supporting Long; Stephenson is the choice
Firefighters Assn. backs Long
On behalf of the Ventura County Professional Firefighters Association, we are proud to endorse Supervisor Kelly Long for re-election. Supervisor Long has demonstrated unwavering commitment and dedication to public safety throughout Ventura County.
Under Supervisor Long’s leadership, Ventura County has seen improvements in public safety initiatives, ensuring the well-being and security of our communities. Her approach to addressing critical issues, such as emergency response preparedness, wildfire prevention, and disaster management, has been instrumental in safeguarding the lives and properties of our residents.
Supervisor Long’s support for essential resources for our fire department has been invaluable in enhancing our ability to effectively respond to emergencies and provide crucial assistance during times of crisis. Kelly Long’s collaboration with local agencies and community stakeholders has fostered improved coordination in tackling public safety challenges. Her inclusive approach to governance has ensured that the voices of first responders are heard, leading to initiatives that prioritize the safety and well-being of Ventura County residents.
Many other organizations and prominent community leaders join us in endorsing Kelly Long. A partial list includes: the Ventura County Deputy Sheriffs’ Association, Ventura County Professional Peace Officers Association, Oxnard Police Officers Association, Southwest Regional Council of Carpenters Local 805, Teamsters Local 186, Longshore & Warehouse Workers Local 46, West Ventura County Business Alliance, Sheriff Fryhoff, former Sheriff Dean and more. (See full list at kellylongforsupervisor.com)
As firefighters who serve on the front lines, we know that Supervisor Kelly Long is the most qualified candidate to continue leading Ventura County towards a safer and more resilient future. We urge voters to join us in supporting Supervisor Long for re-election, as she continues to champion the priorities of our first responders and work tirelessly to protect the safety and security of all Ventura County residents.
Derek Wreesman, Political Action Director, Ventura County Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 1364, Camarillo
Supervisor race is a no-brainer
In a recent District 3 supervisorial debate, campaign contribution limits and the vote to repeal local campaign finance rules by Supervisor Long were discussed.
Dr. Kim Marra Stephenson has funded her campaign by small donations from community members and working families. Kelly Long, in contrast, has received only 16 donations from grassroots donors (donations under $100). Long is backed significantly by $125,000 in independent PAC funds from the oil and gas industry. So, as you go to mark your ballot ask yourself: Do you want to vote for the candidate supported by your neighbors and friends, or the candidate controlled by powerful outsiders wishing to write their own rules at our expense? Now we know why Long voted to remove the local campaign rules last year.
For me, this decision is a no-brainer. Please join me in voting for Dr. Kim Marra Stephenson for District 3 Supervisor.
Doug Emerson, Camarillo
This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Letters: Firefighters group supporting Long; Stephenson is the choice
