Letters: Prop. 36 | EBRPD board

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Prop. 36 would undo
critical justice reforms

Re: “Officials rally behind Prop. 36” (Page B1, Sept. 28).

Officials rallying behind Proposition 36 overlook how the measure could undo years of progress and burden Californians with hefty, unnecessary costs.

Prison spending nearly bankrupted California before Proposition 47, which Proposition 36 seeks to undermine. If we prioritize things proven to prevent crime like education, social services, housing and mental health, we will achieve authentic public safety, not just an illusion of it.

Proposition 36 ignores data showing increased incarceration doesn’t effectively reduce crime or recidivism. It costs $132,860 per year to incarcerate someone — money better invested in programs that actually prevent crime.

Studies show stable employment reduces reoffending by 60%, yet Proposition 36 provides no resources for workforce development. It also threatens to undo Proposition 47’s progress, which has saved over $800 million while funding successful reentry programs.

Voters should reject Proposition 36 and demand smarter policies prioritizing prevention over punishment.

George Galvis
Oakland

Lynda Deschambault
for East Bay parks board

The East Bay Regional Parks District needs a Board of Directors that understands the complexity of issues facing the parks and has a clear vision of how to solve them. Lynda Deschambault, an environmental scientist with over 37 years of experience (including 20 with the EPA), is uniquely qualified to serve Ward 2 and EBRPD. Lynda is well-versed in the challenges facing EBRPD — she has been a member of the Parks Advisory Committee for the past six years.

I met Lynda when I was a student at Saint Mary’s College. Working for Lynda’s environmental nonprofit enabled me to directly apply the knowledge I learned in my environmental science classes to the real world. Lynda is a passionate and knowledgeable climate champion committed to protecting our environment and mentoring youth from diverse backgrounds. Lynda is the clear choice for Ward 2 and EBRPD.

Jency James
Concord

Elect Belle La to
Pleasant Hill Council

Let’s elect a leader who not only has the right qualifications for Pleasant Hill City Council but also connects deeply with our community.

Belle La, a senior financial analyst at UCSF School of Medicine, has a proven track record in tackling complex financial challenges. Her experience as a contract analyst for San Francisco County shows her ability to navigate policies and contracts effectively. What sets Belle apart is her dedication to District 1 residents — she’s present at community events, actively engaging with locals.

Belle’s commitment to representing everyone and bridging political divides is clear through her inclusive, community-first approach, focusing on issues that truly impact our lives. She is ready to preserve Pleasant Hill’s unique character while uniting our city for a stronger future.

Choosing Belle La is choosing experience, dedication and a voice for all. Vote Belle La.

Cherie Salonga
Pleasant Hill

Prop. 4 will further
climate fight benefits

Finally, the Park Fire is out … two months and 430,000 acres later, and near my old alma mater, Chico State.

This is becoming the new normal, yet help may be on the way in the form of state Proposition 4, a legislative statute and bond measure on November’s ballot.

The Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law have made a good start on a more climate-resilient California that Proposition 4 could and should continue.

We’re just getting started with sustainability, yet the economic benefits from sustainability with equity are already being seen. As a former wildlife biologist and land conservation advocate, I like what I’ve heard about state Proposition 4. Look for yourselves, voters.

Erik Ferry
Berkeley

Antioch should keep
Amtrak station open

Re: “Residents fighting to keep Amtrak station open” (Page B1, Sept. 24).

The Antioch Amtrak station has been a staple in our community since 1995. To hear they want to close the station is really sad and could affect hundreds of people who use the station.

I understand the heavy presence of the homeless community that has formed there has affected the safety and comfort of riders. If the city would implement armed security patrolling day and night, it would cut down a lot of the squatting. It would make riders feel safer and more open to standing outside on the beautiful grass and enjoying the wonderful view of the water, instead of sitting in their cars just waiting.

If you feel the same way I do, passionate about wanting to keep the station open for convenience, we should write or attend our next City Council meeting.

Destiny Swain
Antioch