John Leopold: Candidate for Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors
The following excerpts are from a recent interview by Judy Lukasiewicz with People Power member John Leopold.
John Leopold is running for a seat on the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors. He is running for the First Supervisorial District position, which is currently held by Jan Beautz. This district includes Live Oak, Soquel, Branciforte, and a wide area of the Santa Cruz Mountains from Highway 17 to Nisene Marks, including the Summit. The county elections will be held in March of 2008.
What inspired you to join People Power?
I like to ride. As my children got older, they showed an interest in riding as well. It was at that point, riding the streets with my kids, that I realized the importance of safe streets and accessible pathways for bike traffic as a method of transportation.
Do you support widening Highway 1?
I haven't seen a plan that I could support and highway widening is not at the top of my list for how to improve transportation issues in Santa Cruz County. Even though highways have received the majority of funding. We need a balanced plan that includes bike/pedestrian paths and bridges, improved bus service, and a train/trail system.Do you support a train and trail along the coast?
Yes. In the Live Oak/Soquel area, for example, a coastal rail/trail could help to make the streets less congested. It would make it safer for kids and other commuters to travel by bike. Overall, a train/trail would be a welcome improvement as well as a sensible, alternative form of transportation, and it could be accomplished by leveraging available resources.
If you win the Supervisor position, will you commute to the county building without using a car?
Yes, I've thought about that seriously. It would, of course, depend on my work hours, but I would hope to commute by bike at least two times per week, as I have done in the past. It's about a three-mile trip, one way, from where I live.
How can People Power members help with your campaign?
Get the Santa Cruz County voters out in March. Hold coffee gatherings in your homes to discuss local campaigns and increase voter interest. Walk door-to-door in your precinct and let others know that you support my campaign for office. Talk to your neighbors. Give contributions to my campaign. Go to my website to learn more: friendsofjohnleopold.com.