I will work for quality jobs NOW!

By Carlos Quilez

I believe the focus on the unlikely, has hindered the Districts ability to work on projects that can create much needed real jobs today.

After 16 years and a great deal tax payer money spent, shipping and commerce on Humboldt Bay have declined.

We need jobs.

Year after year, the District ignores its own plans and studies to promote a series of unrealistic port development schemes. I believe this focus on the unlikely, has hindered the Districts' ability to work on projects and plans that can create much needed real jobs today.

Port activities are an essential part of our economy, and our Bay offers many opportunities for improvement. We can't afford to wait any longer for unrealistic and unlikely plans to unfold.

I believe that we can create jobs now by rebuilding port infrastructure. Quality jobs that support and enhance our existing timber and fishing industries and promotes the creation of value added products.

We deserve a stronger advocate for realistic and responsible harbor development and when elected I will work hard to provide the necessary leadership to get things moving again.

I will manage the District in a fiscally responsible manner and work for improved interagency cooperation. We need to reduce the permitting morass and open more funding opportunities for needed projects. This approach will create jobs.

Over the last decade, we have seen little in the way of quality recreational facilities constructed for boaters and fishermen. This type of infrastructure is a wise investment for our economy because it brings more recreational users, who spend money here, to the bay. And, we can put people to work by constructing these facilities. I'm prepared to work hard for the District make these improvements.

A safe clean bay is necessary for recreation and our growing tourism industry. The conservation component of the District has been largely neglected. I believe that investment in our natural resources provides significant returns. Habitat improvements increase valuable fish stocks and clean water creates more fisheries and aquaculture jobs.

Finally, I'll work to help the District to be a more open and accessible agency that will listen to and do more for our residents. When elected to the Commission I will bring my skills and experience along with my pledge to work hard for the benefit of all our residents. I am committed to providing strong leadership for a healthy and prosperous Humboldt Bay.