Issues

Sustainability of the Environment
Everyday, human activities directly impact the environment � each of us must work to reduce our carbon footprint. The challenges we face are many, such as global climate change, water quality and supply, the health of wildlife and increasing public awareness about environmental issues. Efren is devoted to working diligently to make certain we maintain a sustainable environment for the future.  Efren will dedicate himself to seeing we preserve our natural resources and improve the environment through smart decisions and innovative solutions. Efren is already working for a greener Sonoma County. All of us have become more aware of the footprint we leave as a result of the way we conduct our daily lives. The important lessons learned regarding reducing our impacts on climate change, and taking steps to off-set the impacts we have, should be applied to everything we do. That is why Efren's campaign is handing out 500 Coast Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) seedlings to people all around the 5th District. By planting these native trees the impact of paper use and other campaign activities will be off-set as these magnificent trees grow and thrive. These small seedlings will grow to be the giants that we all love. Redwoods can live 2,000 years or more and will be here long after we are gone. Doing tangible things to meet our responsibilities to future generations is the right thing to do. Please visit the "Contact" page to learn more about obtaining your own free redwood seedling.

Improving Public Safety
Crime and violence in our community are threatening our quality of life.  Every adult, child and senior deserves to feel safe in his or her own neighborhood.  Together, with Efren, we can lead the fight to take back our neighborhoods and ensure our Sheriff and Police Departments have the necessary funding to do their jobs more efficiently and effectively. 

Managing Growth and
Avoiding Urban Sprawl
We are fortunate to live in such a uniquely beautiful area and we must guard against taking it for granted and work to protect our open space and agricultural land. Efren is committed to keeping our County green even under the intense pressure of population growth in California. As Supervisor, Efren will make smart decisions to avoid urban sprawl and protect the rural character we all enjoy. 

Protecting Agriculture
One area that defines Sonoma County is its rich agricultural heritage. Farming and ranching benefits the entire community by preserving our open space and green belts and by providing jobs for our residents. The agricultural industry creates jobs in many different sectors, such as tourism, hotels and restaurants, the Ag services industry and banking. Efren will bridge the gap between community groups and listen to all perspectives on the complex issues facing our community.

Improving Healthcare
As healthcare costs continue to spiral upward and services become less accessible, it is more important than ever to provide solutions to our healthcare needs.  As a member of the Southwest Community Health Center Board of Directors, Efren has proven to be a vital resource as the County looks for innovative ways to deliver healthcare.  As Fifth District Supervisor, Efren will bring knowledge and experience to the task of repairing our healthcare system.