Candidate Statement

By Jeff Matson

This was susposed to go in the Voting Guide provided by the county

JEFF MATSON Engineer

Chula Vista is the fastest-growing city in the county. New plans for a developed waterfront on H Street, and urban developments near Otay Reservoir will bring many more people to our lovely home, we must plan for rapidly expanding water needs. Our county imports up to 95% of its water. We are too reliant on this imported water, forcing unfavorable deals and expensive pipeline rental fees.

Seawater Desalination is the answer. The County Water Authority has spent too much time and money chasing the Carlsbad desalination site. The Agency's attempt to save a pittance on avoiding an environmental report, has cost the department five years and millions of dollars. Let's build this plant here, in Chula Vista, where we can create local jobs, and save on pumping costs. Let's reduce our reliance on imported water and the MWD by reclaiming our own water. A vote for me is a vote for change in the failed negotiations and expensive short-minded deals that leave the county without a plan for cost-wise sustainable growth.

Jeff Matson was born and raised in South Bay, and believes in creating a financially responsible plan for reducing reliance on imported water.