Yolo County Supervisor Jim Provenza has a stellar record of accomplishment and acts based on values in support of us all. One of his best qualities is serving people when no one is looking, serving those who can’t offer anything in return, and doing what’s right — not necessarily what’s easy.
Example: the owners of a South Davis mobile home park sold mobile homes to Spanish-speaking residents for cash, failed to transfer the title, and then unlawfully evicted the residents from the park. Mr. Provenza organized a task force that included state regulators, the county district attorney, and county staff to pursue the wrongdoers. Court and administrative actions were filed, titles to mobile homes were restored and almost $200,000 in restitution was paid to victims.
Anyone can stand next to someone of accomplishment and take a ‘selfie’, or link their name to a favorable cause or issue. While there is a place for ceremony, proclamations and photo ops, mostly you’ll find Jim quietly laboring behind the scenes to bring people together to solve a problem or resolve an issue — substantively — beyond scratching the surface.
Example: Supervisor Provenza initiated and led a community effort that kept the Yolo Crisis Nursery open while helping to create a new nonprofit to sustainably manage this vital service that helps families in need and diverts children from the child welfare system.
Another dimension to his approach is encouraging genuine stakeholder participation in problem-solving. Advisory committees and working groups are empowered with real influence to shape solutions that best meet the community’s needs.
Example: As chair of the Yolo Habitat Conservancy, Supervisor Provenza, during lengthy and tough negotiations with state and federal regulators, leveraged the expertise of a highly regarded technical advisory committee to help craft a unique habitat conservation plan that is compatible with working agriculture.
A proven and accomplished officeholder of Jim’s stature, commitment and integrity is needed now more than ever. Please re-elect Jim Provenza, Yolo County Supervisor.
Debra Reed
Davis



Leave a comment