Five contenders have announced their intent to run for Supervisor in the First District. Incumbent Glenn McGourty has announced that he will not seek a second term.
Candidates for the March 5, 2024 primary election must file initial paperwork to establish a separate bank account for their campaign, prior to November 13 of this year. If they still plan to run, they can declare between November 13 and December 8. Incumbent Second District Supervisor Maureen Mulheren is the only candidate in her race who’s filed an intent to run so far. Likewise, in the Fourth District, Fort Bragg Mayor Bernie Norvell is the only one who’s filed an intent to replace current Supervisor Dan Gjerde, who has said he will not run again. The position of county supervisor is a non-partisan office.
On Saturday, the Mendocino County Republican Central Committee held its first candidate meet and greet for the primary election cycle in Todd Grove Park. About two dozen voters from around the county attended, but only one contest was represented. Four out of the five contestants for the First District were on hand to give an initial idea of their priorities. Voters asked about candidates’ level of familiarity with the Board of Supervisors, their views on county finances, keeping county government local, and why they believe they should represent the district.
In order of their filing, Carrie Shattuck lives just outside the city of Ukiah, and said transparency and eliminating waste from the county budget are her top priorities. She said she believes her lack of political experience would bring a needed outsider’s perspective to the board.
Adam Gaska, of Redwood Valley, cited water as his top priority, and presented his work on the Redwood Valley Water District, the Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency, and the Redwood Valley Municipal Advisory Council as qualifications.
Trevor Mockel, of Redwood Valley, was not present and said afterwards that he had been unaware the event was taking place.
Madeline Cline, of Redwood Valley, is a lobbyist and the first district appointee to the California Fish and Game Commission. She said she has studied political science and is familiar with the complexities of the state budget. Water, roads, and emergency services are her top priorities.
David Goodman, who lives just outside Ukiah city limits, is a former Marine and small businessman who said the county needs a leader who will tell globalization to “kick rocks.”
