First off, PDB member Kari Birdseye invited all to attend on Sunday, May 22 when she announces her candidacy for Benicia City Council. You are invited to attend the Kickoff Rally on Sunday, May 22, 2-4pm at Benicia’s City Park Gazebo. Kari presented her views about her campaign and local issues specific to Benicia. She encouraged volunteers to sign up at her website, karibirdseyeforbenicia.com/.
Election next month – June 7
We also heard from several June 7 election candidates, and voted whether to offer endorsements:
Democratic Suisun City Councilwoman Wanda Williams discussed her candidacy for Solano County District 3 Supervisor.
Solano County Sheriff candidate Daryl Snedeker discussed his reasons for running. (Snedeker is No-Party-Preference)
Two Democratic candidates for the State Board of Equalization, Braden Murphy and Jose Alatmirano shared with us why we should vote for them in the primary.
Progressive Democrats of Benicia proudly ENDORSE:
Wanda Williams for Solano County Board of Supervisors, District 3 electwandawilliams.com
Braden Murphy for California’s State Board of Equalization bradenforboe.com
Benicia Mayor Steve Young talked about the Valero-supported PAC and the expected negative ad campaign anticipated this election year. Because the “independent expenditures” of PACs are not limited by Benicia’s Voluntary Code of Fair Campaign Practices or state law, the Valero-supported PAC is not limited in the amounts it can spend. In contrast, expenditures by candidates and their campaigns are limited. Learn more about this important dynamic of local politics.
Announcements
Mayor Steve Young discussed issues to be considered at the May 17 City Council meeting: the current emergency water conservation order, a proposed contract to fix the breakwater outside the Benicia Marina, and proposal to put renewal of Measure K on the November ballot (Open Space Initiative north of Lake Herman Road)