Each member can vote for the Executive Committee leaders for the San Francisco Bay Chapter and the Executive Committee for their local group (see map for approximate group boundaries or call the chapter office at 510-848-0800 if you're not sure what group you're part of).
Note that the membership dates listed for each candidate are those listed in the Club membership database, but may not be completely accurate, especially for earlier time periods.
For instructions on casting your ballot, return to the Chapter election homepage.
Click the following options to be brought to the relevant candidate statements:
- Chapter
- Marin Group
- Mount Diablo Group
- Northern Alameda County Group
- San Francisco Group
- Southern Alameda County Group
- Tri-Valley Group
- West Contra Costa County Group
Chapter Executive Committee
There are three candidates. You may vote for three or fewer.
Laura Einowski
Residence: Berkeley
Occupation: Architectural color designer
Sierra Club member since: 2016
Activities: SF Bay Chapter Vice Chair; SF Bay Chapter Executive Committee member since 2017; Financial Committee member; Hiking Section hike leader
Statement: After moving to the Bay Area 12 years ago, I starting looking for opportunities to be more proactively involved with my community and in protecting our environment, while also finding opportunities to take people outside. Since becoming a member in 2016, I have been involved in many different aspects of the club. Currently, I am Vice Chair of the SF Bay Chapter Executive Committee, as well as an At-Large Member voting member. I also sit on the Financial Committee and the David Brower Dinner Committee. Last fall I completed a Team Sierra Hike (which raised over $1,000 for the Chapter), and I recently became a Hiking Section hike leader.
I’ve had the honor of being a member of the SF Bay Chapter Executive Committee since 2017. It is important for me to remain involved and to be an active voice on the issues brought to the Sierra Club, as protecting our environment and raising awareness of issues threatening our lands is very important to me. The Executive Committee allows me to speak for our environment. As a hike leader, I have the amazing opportunity to take members, and non-members, directly into nature to show them what the Sierra Club works so hard to protect. This summer, I co-lead an informational walks to raise awareness on issues regarding Sand Creek in Antioch, and Middle Harbor Shoreline Park in Oakland, with more outings planned for the fall.
I would like to continue to be an advocate in following the club’s motto to explore, enjoy, and protect our planet. I would like to focus on making the club as inclusive and welcoming as possible, and work towards bringing in new members who are determined to work towards the club’s goals of protecting our planet. I humbly ask for your vote so I can continue to do good by nature.
Becky Evans
Residence: San Francisco
Occupation: Retired paralegal
Sierra Club member since: 1969
Activities: Chapter Executive Committee since 2011; Chapter Chair, 2014-16; San Francisco Group activist since 1993; Chapter Political Committee; environmental work recognized by the San Francisco Bay Chapter, San Francisco Tomorrow and the San Francisco Board of Supervisors; member of Bay Area Water Stewards, People for the Parks Board; Sierra Club Colby Library volunteer
Statement: I ask for you to re-elect me to the Chapter Executive Committee. I will focus on mentoring new activists, strengthening our awesome staff, encouraging regional smart growth and working to preserve our diminishing public lands.
I'm proud to be a life member in the Sierra Club. Working at all levels of the Sierra Club, my focus has been for parks, waterfront and water issues and community efforts on sewage and transportation.
The Chapter’s successes are yours — you attend hearings, write letters, meet with elected officials and make phone calls. Your dues and contributions make the Chapter’s work possible. Serving on the Bay Chapter Executive Committee and its sub-committees is demanding, exhilarating and requiring infinite patience. I play well with others.
There are nine members elected by the Chapter membership — now at 35,000 — plus representatives from the Chapter’s 8 groups We are volunteers — consultants, scientists, civil servants, attorneys, tech experts and retirees. We are responsible for Chapter staff, budget and conservation campaigns as well as political endorsements and approving litigation.
Together we need to meet the challenges of sea level rise, climate change and a growing Bay Area population. It takes all of us working together to meet these challenges.
Please vote for me for the San Francisco Bay Chapter Executive Committee — thank you.
Arthur Feinstein
Residence: San Francisco
Occupation: Environmentalist
Sierra Club member since: 1981
Activities: Chapter and San Francisco Group Executive Committee member, 2006 to present; ExCom chair, 2010 to 2013; Chapter Director: 2012 (Interim); SF Group PolCom Chair, 2008; SF Group ConsCom chair, 2009 to 2012; Sierra Club California Conservation Committee Chair, 2017 to present; SC California Executive Committee member, 2016 to present; Awarded National Sierra Club’s Susan Miller Award, 2014; Awarded Clean Water Network’s 30-Year Heroes Award; Awarded National Audubon Society’s Bay Champion Award.
Statement: The Bay Area needs a strong Sierra Club as never before. Climate change, our climate change denying President, sea level rise, extreme weather, drought, species extinction, fracking, the list goes on and can seem overwhelming. But the answer is not despair but rather to accept the challenge, seek solutions and implement them. To do this will require a strong Sierra Club that will lead the effort to reduce and then eliminate dependence upon non-renewable fuels. That will advocate for answers to sea level rise such as creating new wetlands to reduce storm surges and act as levees. That will work to preserve our natural world in the face of increased development.
When Chapter chair I helped establish an energetic and successful Energy Committee. I have worked on wetlands issues on local, state and federal levels helping save and restore thousands of acres of wetlands around the Bay. I played a key role in saving two square miles of East Bay habitat in our 14-year struggle to save Gateway Valley in Orinda. With many others, I helped establish the McLaughlin East Shore State Park.
The Club makes a difference. The Bay Area is a healthier place for us and for the critters with whom we share this world thanks to our efforts.
I believe I have the skills and experience to help the Club continue this essential work.
Delta Group Candidate
There is one candidates. You may vote for one or fewer.
Paul Seger
Residence: Oakley
Occupation: Retired teacher
Sierra Club member since: 2017
Activities: Delta Group chair, 2018; SF Bay ExCom, 2018; SF Bay PolCom, 2018; Grassroots organizing: Pulled together a Board of Directors to reinstate the Sierra Club Delta Group.
Statement: I'm completing my first year as a member on SFBAY's Sierra Club leadership team. In the short time that I have been leading the Sierra Club Delta Group, serving on the SFBAY Executive and Political Committees I am inspired by the positive influences that the Sierra Club leaders have on local communities around the Bay area. I am confident that I will expand our SC's influences and services, furthering our mission to protect the environment and extend equanimity far into Eastern Contra Costa County's communities.
East Contra Costa County is one of the country's fastest sprawling regions in the country and our local municipal governing bodies are practically giving it away with little care to health/well-being, safety or the environment/climate change. We have protected Ag/Equestrian areas that are regularly targeted by developers. Delta-Bay: We are on the front lines fighting for the health of one of the Western Hemisphere's most significant estuaries; sitting right on the Delta, the Bay's “doorstep”, to which we must coordinate smarter campaigns to fight for the ecology of the Delta.
I now have a year's worth of learning what is possible with the cooperation of SFBAY SC's leaders, by their commitment to create and enforce solid, environmentally sound and sustainable, jurisdictional policies. We are already gearing up for action and activities to increase the Delta region's understanding of SC issues through educational outreach and increased SC membership.
Marin Group Candidates
There are five candidates. You may vote for five or fewer.
Mickey Allison
Residence: Sausalito
Occupation: Retired teacher
Sierra Club Life Member since: 1985
Activities: Sierra Club Marin Group Executive Committee, 2017 to present; Chapter Federal Parks Committee, 2015 to present; Sierra Club Inspiring Connections Outdoors (ICO), 1998 to present.
Statement: An Oakland native with a bachelors in biology, masters in zoology from UC Davis, I taught regular and advanced placement biology in public schools and Bio 101 in community college. I have spent a lifetime outdoors - horseback riding, hiking, camping, backpacking, canoeing and spending summers in Canada on a small island with no electricity. In 2004 I moved into a floating home in Sausalito adding solar, shredded denim insulation and other upgrades to make my home greener thus lowering my energy footprint to minimum charges.
During my first term I supported the efforts of other Executive Committee members as well as accepted help from others on projects I was the lead or worked on in tandem. I’ve learned a great deal in the process, but recognize that I still have a lot to learn. I’m more familiar with the issues in Sausalito and Marin City, but enjoy learning about and working with my colleagues in other parts of the county as a member of the Climate Solutions Committee, and as one of two representatives to the Marin County Parks and Open Space Roundtable.
I have developed a deep attachment to Marin City through its library, and recently as a volunteer science lab aide at Bayside/Martin Luther King Academy and by providing weekly, mostly physical science experiments for the younger kids in the Boys and Girls Club program. I still love teaching, being a Sierra Club Inspiring Connections Outdoors (ICO) leader, and researching environmental science issues for the Marin Group.
Barbara Bogard
Residence: Mill Valley (unincorporated)
Occupation: Teacher, computer analyst — retired
Sierra Club member since: 1995
Activities: Sierra Club Marin Group Executive Committee 2017-present, Group Conservation Committee 2016-present, Group Climate Solutions Committee Co-chair 2017-present, Group Parks & Open Space Committee Co-chair 2016-2018, Pesticide Free Zone Board of Directors 2015-present, Marin Green Party Co-chair 2016-present, 350Marin co-founder 2014, YardSmartMarin Steering Committee 2016-present, The Real News Network Climate Crisis Bureau Advisory Board 2018-present, Marin Water Coalition 2013-present, Friends of Golden Gate Village Residents' Council 2017-present.
Statement: I have been a full-time activist and organizer for nearly 20 years. I have worked on many environmental issues during that time as well as managed political campaigns for local elected environmental leaders. Currently I am focused on climate change, regenerative agriculture, pesticides and GMOs, protection of open space and wildlife, and environmental justice.
I am committed to helping the Sierra Club take the lead on these and other issues as well as to increase the visibility of our group so that our contributions are better acknowledged and respected by our local community. I am also working on building alliances and working collaboratively with other groups who share our goals and values since our power and influence increase with our numbers.
I am especially concerned about the lack of diversity that so often characterizes our environmental movement. To try to address that, I spend much of my time and energy these days working with communities of color in Marin on environmental issues of concern to them including environmental toxins, sea level rise and flooding, housing and development, nutrition and access to healthy food, and health disparities.
As we face critical challenges to our environment, to our democracy, to our values, and to the very survival of human life on this planet, I am committed to doing everything I can to heal people and planet.
Bob Johnston
Residence: Inverness, Marin County
Occupation: Professor of Environmental Planning, UC Davis, retired
Sierra Club member since: 1995
Activities: Vice-Chair, Marin Group Conservation Committee, 2018-19; Member, West Marin Tourism Working Group for State Senator McGuire, 2017-18; Board, Sierra Nevada Conservancy, 2009-present; Board, Sierra Nevada Alliance, 2000-2005; Expert in NEPA lawsuits for the S. Club re. the growth-inducing impacts of new highways (Chicago, Salt Lk. region, others), 1980-2000; Member, citizens groups, Davis 1973-1990, protecting the downtown from road widenings; Davis Regional Planning Commission (advisory on land use and transportation), 1980s; Board, Mountain Area Preservation Foundation, Truckee, 2003; Truckee Planning Commission, 2004-2010; Town Affordable Housing committee, 2008-10; Marin County Supervisor’s campaign, 2016; Marin County C-SMART sea level rise committee, 2013-14; Board, Inverness Association and Foundation; Good understanding of the Countywide Plan and development code, including the coastal program elements
Statement: I have experience on national, State, and local advisory committees. With expert testimony, I helped get AB889 adopted (California,1988), which added the mitigation monitoring requirement to CEQA. I helped write the USDOT/USEPA Clean Air Act rule for metropolitan transportation modeling in the late 1970s.
I have attended meetings of the Marin Group Conservation Committee and Executive Committee for 18 months and agree with their priorities and approach to meetings. I’m on the Legal Committee. I can contribute to the ExCom in general and, specifically, by working on West Marin issues. I am the head of a citizens group suing Caltrans over the EIR for a bridge project. I have testified on the Local Coastal Program revisions for several years, the San Geronimo Valley golf course restoration, grazing in the Seashore, aquaculture, and the Stream Conservation Ordinance.
Kristen Shannon
Residence: Sausalito
Sierra Club member since: 2016
No candidate statement submitted.
Brian Staley
Residence: Woodacre
Sierra Club member since: 2016
Statement: I have spent my adult life fighting to preserve the character and the beauty of Marin. I would like to have the chance to continue that work with your help. I respectfully request your vote for a seat on the Executive Committee.
I am running for the seat to continue the long fought efforts protect the remaining open spaces and natural resources in Marin. There has never been a time when threats of major change to our communities and open spaces has been so great. As reported in the media and as reported by every County environmental organization, the California coast and Marin in particular is under enormous development pressure. Pressures from developers, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTC), The Association of Bay area Governments (ABAG), increasing property values, and new State requirements are all contributing to these pressures to build much more high-density complexes throughout Marin. Marin ranches and farms are a central battleground for these new suburban development pressures, yet they need protections and our help. The Executive Committee of the Sierra Club is a unique place from which one can effect positive change in this area.
We have a choice whether to protect our community character for future generations. I for one feel strongly that working within the current governmental system is the best option. With my 3 decades of experience as a green designer, planner and builder, I believe I have the necessary experience to help make a difference. Using my technical familiarity with water quality, water treatment, habitat restoration, and other subjects I will fight to keep Marin’s rural character intact while understanding that there are limits to respectfully working within the system.
I feel that I have many worthwhile strengths to contribute towards the great works the Sierra Club will accomplish and I have always believed that a clean protected environment doesn't have to be in conflict with local economic interests. There are always solutions to be found that protect this place we call home.
Mount Diablo Group Candidates:
There are three candidates. You may vote for up to two.
Beth Bittle
Residence: Walnut Creek (unincorporated)
Occupation: Adventure tour guide
Sierra Club member since: 2014
Activities: Rainbow Sierrans (GLS) Governing Committee member, 2015 - present; Rainbow Sierrans (GLS) Outings Leader, 2014 - present; National Sierra Club Outings Leader, 2015 - present; Certified Califonia Naturalist, 2018, Michener Award for outings leadership, 2018
Statement: I would like to become more involved in the local chapter, focusing on policy issues in my area. I have been very involved in Rainbow Sierrans (GLS), but am eager to work on conservation issues near home, in the Mount Diablo Chapter.
I am an avid outdoors person. I love to spend as much of my time as possible camping, hiking, kayaking or cycling. I hope to bring in new people into Sierra Club by promoting access and inclusion. I will advocate for preservation of parks and open spaces, habitat and wildlife protection in the Mt. Diablo region. Thank you for your vote.
Jim Blickenstaff
Residence: San Ramon
Occupation: Letter Carrier, USPS
Sierra Club member since: 1982
Activities: Chair, Mount Diablo Group, 1993 to present; Co-leader, San Ramon for Open Government; Activist for, The 'No “Tassajara Parks” Coalition'
Statement: I would like to continue in my role as Chair of the Mount Diablo Group of the Sierra Club, San Francisco Bay Chapter. There are current and upcoming environmental challenges in our region that will require a strong Sierra Club presence and response. I believe, from my many years of experience, that I can continue to be an effective leader on the issues, not only critical to the Sierra Club, but to other organizations, with whom we will need to coordinate in order to maximize our impact and success.
The Contra Costa County Urban Limit Line has been a valuable tool in holding down sprawl. But, it is under constant threat from well moneyed interests. The 30 acre exception rule is vulnerable to mis-use, and threatening the very premise of the U.L.L. Nothing exemplifies this better than the ill-advised 50 acre, 125u, “Tassajara Parks” exemption right next to Danville. Also, the development planned for the Concord Naval Weapons Station is about to start it’s next phase. Proper implementation of the 3,200 acres set aside as parks and open space will be critical. Public and environmental input will be as important as ever. It will require close monitoring by the Mt. Diablo Group, as well as other key environmental organizations. We've seen in the past how a lack of transparency has led to problems and controversy.
Whatever it may be; from maintaining a strong County U.L.L., or overseeing a huge project next to Concord; I ask for your vote; so that I may continue to represent the Mount Diablo Group, and the Sierra Club principles of conservation, so critical to smart growth, and a green and healthy future for our children.
Sarah G. Butler
Residence: Orinda
Occupation: Environmental planner, retired, and current education advocate
Sierra Club member since: 1996
Activities: Mount Diablo Group Executive Committee Member. 2017-18; SF Bay Chapter Political Committee 2018, & current alternate; CNRCC, Sea Level Rise Task Force, May 2018- present; CA Democratic Party Environmental Caucus Member, 2012-2018; Democratic Party of Contra Costa County, elected member 2012-2020; former elected school board member, Orinda School Board, 2012-2016; Citizen's Climate Lobby of Contra Costa County, 2016-2018
Statement: I have always been an environmentalist with a high regard for the Sierra Club. I am glad to have been able to serve for the past year on the Mount Diablo Group's Executive Committee, and hope to earn your vote so that I can continue that work.
I ran for a seat on the Sierra Club Executive Committee after the wake-up call of the Nov. 2016 presidential election, and the urgent desire to join with others in my area to work more effectively for environmental causes, and to curb climate change.
I have a Bachelors of Science in Environmental Planning and Management from UC Davis, and experience in that field, as well as in education and in politics. My experience gives me the background to be effective in focusing on our priority issues including: transportation, affordable housing, water, climate change, and wildfires.
Feel free to contact me with any questions at SarahGButler@hotmail.com. It would be an honor to continue to serve you on the Mount Diablo Group Executive Committee.
Northern Alameda County Group Candidates:
There are four candidates. You may vote for up to four.
Jonathan Bair
Residence: Oakland
Occupation: Health care communications
Sierra Club member since: 2014
Activities: Group Executive Committee, Group Conservation Committee, Chapter Political Committee, Chapter Picnic
Statement: Serving on the Northern Alameda County Group Executive Committee for almost two years has been a great privilege. I've worked hard to ensure that Northern Alameda County's voice was heard at the Chapter level. I've promoted waste reduction efforts, advocated for developing consistent sea level rise adaptation policies, tried to find common ground on housing controversies, and kept a close eye on the A's stadium proposal process. I volunteered to join a regional committee and have worked very hard to make sure that our processes are followed and Northern Alameda County has a voice in environmental decision-making. It's been a lot of work but I am eager to continue.
Before joining the leadership of the Sierra Club, I was President of the Board of Walk Oakland Bike Oakland and Chair of the City of Oakland Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee. I've long been active in the fight to create a progressive majority on the BART Board. I led a grassroots effort to improve public transportation in East Oakland in 2012 in partnership with the Sierra Club. And I carry around reusable straws!
I'm the only lifelong Oaklander on the Northern Alameda County Group Executive Committee which is helpful when providing context around some of the issues we grapple with. I believe that I am the only openly gay person running for the Executive Committee this year, which is a valuable perspective to bring to some discussions. In the coming years I will continue to work hard at the Group and Chapter level for environmental stewardship and justice. I ask for your vote to continue working hard to improve the environment in the East Bay.
Olga Bolotina
Residence: Oakland
Sierra Club member since: 2000
No candidate statement submitted
Chris Jackson
Residence: Oakland
Sierra Club member since: 2014
No candidate photo or statement submitted
Aaron Priven
Residence: Albany
Occupation: Transit communications
Sierra Club member since: 1994
Activities: 1998-2000: Transportation and Compact Growth Chair, Bay Chapter; 2000, 2005: Bay Chapter Executive Committee; 2000-2001, 2004-2005: Northern Alameda County Group Executive Committee; 2001: Bay Chapter Conservation Chair; 2004-2005: Northern Alameda County Group Conservation Chair
Statement: It is not news to that climate change is the defining issue of our time, and the Northern Alameda County Group has done much on this -- opposing the shipment of coal, supporting institutions devoted to sustainable energy production, and fighting to limit the emissions from oil refineries.
I believe that, in addition, the Sierra Club also needs to take an active role in promoting redirection of development away from wild and rural land around the edges of the Bay Area and toward infill development in Northern Alameda County's urban centers. This includes promoting the development, in our downtowns and transit corridors of, housing of all income levels and commercial projects that would discourage further sprawl.
While as environmental advocates it's tempting to hold out for more and more to try to make each project as perfect as possible, this just encourages developers to sprawl outward. We must oppose sprawl development and also take positive steps toward realizing the more livable, sustainable urban communities that Northern Alameda County cities must become if we are to avoid contributing to climate change and its catastrophic impacts.
Finding the balance between unattainable perfection and compromised values isn't always easy, but it's important that we try, and that we do our best to make as much difference in the real world as we can. That's what I've tried to do in my years as a Sierra Club leader. I believe I can do more to make this real, and I ask for your vote. Visit club.priven.com for more info.
San Francisco Group Candidates:
There are four candidates. You may vote for up to four.
Becky Evans
Residence: San Francisco
Occupation: Retired paralegal
Sierra Club member since: 1969 (Life Member)
Activities: Current Chair, San Francisco Group; Chapter Representative to the Council of Club Leaders 2013-2018, Chapter Executive Committee member since 2011; San Francisco Group leader since 1993; conservation work recognized by San Francisco Tomorrow, San Francisco Bay Chapter and the San Francisco Board of Supervisors; member Bay Area Water Stewards, People for the Parks Board; Sierra Club Colby Library volunteer.
Statement: San Francisco faces many environmental challenges: sea level rise; lack of affordable housing; traffic chaos in our neighborhoods; Spare the Air days and a Muni Week with transit failures.
We need to bring more members into activist roles for these important issues. Join me and the other members of the San Francisco Group ExCom and Conservation Committee to grow our activist corps working for improvement of local transportation, support of affordable housing, encouraging smart regional growth and preserving the California Environmental Quality Act.
I have volunteered at all levels of the Sierra Club. My major efforts as a San Franciscan have been for parks, waterfront, water issues and community efforts on sewage and transportation. I served on San Francisco’s Environment Commission in its formative years, on the Clean Water Advisory Committee and on the city’s Open Space Advisory Committee.
The seven members of the Group Executive Committee work with individuals and organizations to implement green goals and policies for San Francisco. Together we need to meet the challenges of sea level rise, climate change and a growing Bay Area population. It will take all of us working together to meet these challenges.
Please vote for me for the San Francisco Group Executive Committee — thank you.
Kathy Howard
Residence: San Francisco
Occupation: Landscape architect (retired)
Sierra Club member since: 1980
Activities: Sierra Club: SF Group Executive Committee, organizing outreach events; state-wide California Conservation Committee Steering Committee, serving as Northern Secretary.
Environmental columnist for the Castro Courier, interviewing experts on topics ranging from statewide water issues to plastics in our oceans to protecting our forests.
Co-founder of grassroots open-space advocacy groups: SF Ocean Edge, Healthy Soccer SF, Golden Gate Park Preservation Alliance, and Friends of the Music Concourse. Together, we fought to protect the western end of Golden Gate Park from artificial turf, loss of habitat, and 150,000 watts of stadium lighting. We worked with parents and players concerned with health impacts of artificial turf. We preserved the 100-year-old trees in the Music Course in Golden Gate Park and obtained landmark status for them. We kept a 40,000 square foot water treatment factory out of Golden Gate Park.
Member of Citizens' Advisory Committees for the following: San Francisco Recreation and Open Space Element (ROSE); Outside Lands Concerts landscape protection plan for Golden Gate Park; Coalition for San Francisco Neighborhoods (CSFN) Open Space Committee; Golden Gate Park Music Concourse Authority; Ocean Beach Vision Plan / Local Coastal Program for protection of our western shoreline.
Statement: Climate change must be dealt with vigorously if we are to save life on our planet. Effective political change starts at the grassroots level, through outreach, education, recruiting, and on-going activism. Political change also requires getting the attention of government officials and holding them accountable for their actions. I will continue to use my background in neighborhood activism, my experience with City policies and agencies, and my training as a landscape architect to help the Sierra Club in protecting our environment.
Kim-Shree Maufas
Residence: San Francisco
Occupation: Post-Doctoral researcher
Sierra Club member since: 2018
Activities: Member, Sierra Club San Francisco Group; Ed.D. in International & Multicultural Education, USF w/TESOL Certification from UCB; Longstanding Member of the NAACP, BWOPA, the Harvey Milk LGBT & the Alice B. Toklas LGBT Democratic Clubs. A Certified Level 1 Coach, USA Track & Field.
Statement: Sharing, learning, mobilizing and advocating are MUST DO STEPS that we all can acquire to protect our communities, waters, and planet. I’ve been privileged to be able to use my abilities to communicate, persuade, organize, and mobilize diverse coalitions from underserved communities and communities of color in the Bay Area. Many in these communities simply don’t know how powerful an ally the Sierra Club can be.
During my tenure (2007-2015) on the SF Board of Education, I worked with communities in demanding “a temporary stoppage and an independent health and safety assessment to protect our SFUSD students and their families” from bearing the brunt of the health issues during the Lennar Corps’ Hunters Point Naval Shipyard Development (#79-25A1). I also persuaded the Superintendent to implement the California UC/CSU “A-G” Course Sequence as a graduation requirement (#811-20Sp1) for all Students and led in the creation of groundbreaking Restorative Justice Resolution (#96-23A1) – taking it from 2 years’ worth of community conversations to districtwide implementation. I collaborated in creating the SFUSD District Sustainability Office in 2008 supporting all students’ “Eco-literacy” while reducing the District’s environmental footprint.
I’m helping my granddaughter, Marley (7yrs), understand the BIG ISSUES destroying our planet, as well as recycling, composting, and keeping our water clean for all living plants and creatures. I am a well-known as a relationship builder and would love to bring my advocacy and skill sets to the Sierra Club. I would consider it an honor to serve on the Executive Committee and am asking for your support to do so.
Linda Weiner
Residence: San Francisco
Occupation: Retired, air quality and public health policy
Sierra Club member since: 1999
Activities: San Francisco Group Executive Committee: 2010-2018, Conservation Committee Member 2010-2018; Group Diversity Committee 2011-2012; Alternate to San Francisco Bay Chapter, 2014-2016; Group Representative to Chapter, 2018; Vice Chair of Political Committee, 2018.
I bring experience in air quality regulations, global warming legislation, and Communications, having previously worked at the American Lung Association in California as Director of Air Quality Advocacy (including direct advocacy work on AB 32, the Global Warming Solution Act) and as Bay Area Director of Communications, as well as a producer at KQED and many years working in community public health policy and health communications at Stanford University.
Statement: During my 8-year tenure on the SF Group Executive Committee, I have been actively involved with a wide variety of Sierra Club issues on the policy level, as well as supporting action: Last 2-year term activities include:
POLICIES:
- Led SF SC Group campaign: Divest Fossil Fuels from SF Retirement Pension System:
- Wrote support letters; testified at Board meeting; wrote Action Alert; spoke at
- Wells Fargo divestment rally; organized volunteers for campaign
- Testified at EPA SF regional hearing in support of the Clean Power Plan
- Represented SC SF Group on video in support of Prop E (banning candy-flavored tobacco)
ACTIONS:
- Promoted Sierra Club at SF climate change movie premiere
- Joined SC for 2 days in Get-Out-the-Vote national election effort in Reno Nevada
- Spoke at local SF activist group about Sierra Club SF Group
- Helped organize Sierra Club contingent at Rise Up Climate March in SF, 2018
- Actively participated in all interviews & endorsements for candidates/measures
If re-elected, I will continue to use my skills, energy and passion for advancing Sierra Club policies, particularly in working on environmental justice issues, where the impact of climate change and air pollution is most severe.
Southern Alameda County Group Candidates:
There are three candidates. You may vote for up to three.
Jannet Benz
Residence: Fremont
Sierra Club member since: 2014
Activities: Member, Southern Alameda County Group Executive Committee 2016-present; Member, Transportation and Compact Growth Committee 2016- present; Member, East Bay Public Lands Committee 2016- present; Participated in Candidate Endorsement Interview process for various offices 2014, 2018
Statement: The Bay Area is in the midst of some of the most expansive development in decades. There are issues in our area that need input, guidance and follow-up from a strong environmental organization like the Sierra Club. I am running for this position to continue to be involved in decisions that impact sustainable development, transportation, energy and water resources, preservation of our parks and open spaces, and our quality of life. I continue to be active in local land use issues, advocate for more sustainable new developments, Class I trail networks and improved public transportation to reduce VMT/GHG. I also participate in Fremont City Council and community meetings on issues/projects with environmental concerns.
I believe it is vital to teach our youth to appreciate and respect nature. This is how we “grow” the next generation of environmentally-conscious adults.
Much of my prior environmental work has been done with the children in school and Girl Scout settings. I developed, organized, and managed the annual Earth Week program at Sunol Glen School (K-8). The program required collaboration with many organizations, Save the Bay, Alameda Creek Alliance, local organic farmers, and others to set up learning experiences for students in all grades, as well as classroom activities throughout the week. The program continues, today.
As a member of the Executive Committee, I will continue to increase and leverage activities in our local community and pursue the goals I share with the Sierra Club.
I would be honored to continue to serve on the Southern Alameda County Group Executive Committee as we continue to work:
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to preserve our parks and open spaces;
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for more sustainable development;
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for improved public transportation options;
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to elect environmentally-aware officials.
I would sincerely appreciate your vote. Thank you.
Glenn Kirby
Residence: Hayward
Sierra Club member since: 1978
Statement: I am an East Bay native, growing up in West Contra Costa County and living in Hayward for the past 30 years. My wife and I have been Sierra Club members since the 1978.
I formerly served on the SF Bay Chapter Executive Committee and was Vice Chair for two years. I serve on the Chapter’s East Bay Public Lands Committee and I am a qualified Hiking and Cycling Leader and lead Outings for the Chapter.
I am retired from city government and I served on the Alameda County Planning Commission for twelve years. Prior to that, I served as a Planning Commissioner for the City of Hayward. I served on and chaired the East Bay Regional Park District’s Park Advisory Committee (PAC). I was formerly on the Board of Directors for the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council, and the East Bay Area Trails Council. I view preservation of open-space as fundamental to our quality of life in the Bay Area. I also support public access, where appropriate, through trails and the expansion of parklands.
I enjoy hiking and bicycle riding and would usually rather be outdoors than in meetings or public hearings. But, whether I am considering a proposal for development or reviewing plans for improving our regional parks, I know that the decisions we make today will determine the future for the Bay Area. The Sierra Club has provided leadership in protection of parklands, agricultural lands and critical habitat. I have had the privilege of serving on the Southern Alameda County Executive Committee and ask for your support to continue to do so.
Laurie J. Price
Residence: Hayward
Occupation: Anthropology professor (retired)
Sierra Club member since: 2018
Activities: Southern Alameda County Group; Citizens Against Pollution; Society for Applied Anthropology; Center for Biological Diversity.
Statement: As a professor for 30 years, I taught environmental anthropology, grant writing, public health, climate change, research methods, community development. I have worked with many California students to complete their M.A./undergraduate research on environmental and human rights topics. I retired June, 2018.
As a board member of Citizens Against Pollution, I have been a clean energy activist since 2008, first opposing Eastshore Gas Power Plant (which we defeated) and then opposing Russell City Energy Center (RCEC). RCEC is a 600-megawatt gas fired power plant on the ecologically delicate Hayward shoreline just north of the San Mateo Bridge. A “peaker plant,” RCEC sometimes emits far more than the approved air pollutants; better air quality monitoring is needed to protect marshland species and nearby human communities. RCEC’s permit for 2 million tons of CO2 emissions annually also conflicts with California’s commitment to carbon-free electricity by 2045. In addition to council meetings on the power plants, I made presentations to promote PV solar in city task force meetings and Earth Day programs. Happily, Hayward recently launched a cleaner community choice energy program (East Bay Community Energy). Other relevant experience includes work with Child Family Health International as a board member and global health curriculum developer, and consultant work with the nonprofit, Pacifica Botanical Garden.
As a Sierra Club chapter member, I have participated in discussion of legislative positions and in interviews with local candidates to identify those deserving Sierra Club endorsement. In southern Alameda, communities have serious environmental and health challenges due to persisting oil/gas/coal technologies, road and electronic infrastructure expansions, and housing shortages. Longer range climate change challenges also must be realistically addressed.
If elected, I will intensify my efforts with SAC to protect the environment through policy work, leadership development, and public education.
Tri-Valley Group Candidate:
There is one candidate. You may vote for up to one.
Dick Schneider
Residence: Oakland
Sierra Club member since: 1980
Activities: Executive Committee, Sierra Club Tri-Valley Group; Sierra Club representative, Altamont Landfill Open Space Committee; former Chapter Conservation Chair; former member, National Conservation Governance Committee.
Statement: I am running for Tri-Valley Group Executive Committee to continue protecting open space, native biodiversity, scenic beauty and quality of life in East County.
Since 1999, I have been involved in many Tri-Valley conservation campaigns. I was co-author of Alameda County Measure D and co-chair of the campaign committee. I continue to watchdog the county to ensure that Measure D is faithfully implemented
In 2002, I helped write and qualify the Protect Livermore’s Environment Initiative, which established an urban growth boundary for North Livermore. After its adoption, I worked in the 2005 campaign that defeated Pardee Homes’ plan to break the UGB and build a huge housing development in North Livermore.
More recently, I helped write and pass the Dublin Open Space Initiative of 2014 to protect Doolan Canyon from development. I was a leader of the No on T campaign that defeated Pacific Union’s counter-measure to break the Dublin urban limit line and authorize a massive sprawl development in Doolan Canyon.
I strongly support protecting Tesla Park from off-road vehicles by stopping expansion of the Carnegie State Recreational Vehicle Area. I wrote the EIR comments for the Club and worked to pass state legislation that authorizes the California Department of Parks and Recreation to sell the land for permanent open space protection.
As a Club representative on the Altamont Landfull Open Space Committee, I’ve voted to fund over $9 million in grants to purchase open space land and easements for permanent protection of native biological habitat.
With your vote to continue serving on the Tri-Valley Group Executive Committee, I pledge to continue fighting to preserve the beautiful natural areas of Alameda County that we all treasure.
West Contra Costa County Group Candidates:
There are two candidates. You may vote for up to two.
David McCoard
Residence: El Cerrito
Occupation: Retired college library worker
Sierra Club member since: 1964
Activities: 1975-6, member, Executive Committee and Outings Chair, Kern-Kaweah Chapter; 1984-86, member, SFBC Wetlands Task Force and Solid Waste Subcommittee; 1983-1998, SFBC information table coordinator; mid-90s-2001, 2004-2008 & 2010-2016, SFBC Conservation Committee; 2004-2008, SFBC Political Committee; 1990-present, ExCom, West Contra Costa Group (Chair 1994-95); 2008-present, Sierra Club California (CNRCC) Energy-Climate Committee; 2012-present, SFBC Energy Committee (2014-present, co-chair).
Statement: I feel that the four most important issues facing the West County Group are land use, housing/transportation, air quality and toxics. These are interrelated and directly affect the quality of life of residents (human and otherwise). As a resident of Hercules through 1998, I participated in citizens' groups working to protect Franklin Canyon and to influence land use and planning decisions.
Basic to action on environmental issues is the task of increasing the number of people actively involved in the Group. We can do this by actively inviting and creating opportunities for participation, and making members know that their activity and feelings count.
I will bring my experience in working with information table volunteers, Chapter committees, and community groups, as well as my time on the Group ExCom, to the internal management of the Group.
I am running so that I can continue to contribute to the Club’s effectiveness.
Rita Minjares
Residence: El Cerrito
Sierra Club member since: 1988
I am proud to be a member of the Sierra Club knowing every day we make a difference in our neighborhoods and communities, and open space. With the government wrapped tightly in ugly partisanship we offer a breath of fresh air. Little compares with the beauty set aside by Obama which is being challenged by Trump. The Sierra Club stands with Earthjustice, the Natural Resource Defense Council, Environmental Defense Council and so many others to keep our skies and water clear, defending open space.
It is clear that these are challenging times, we have so much to keep track of. It warms my heart when I hear of small but important successes. Trump is being challenged on every side. It is a time to go deep, and appeal to the masses. Trump won because of gerrymandering, he actually lost by 3 million votes, gerrymandering made it impossible for him to lose. He could win again in 2020, without changing a thing. It is time to reach out. Gerrymandering has to go, they went too far. Losing when you earned 3,000,000 more votes is unprecedented. It’s time to roll. We need to change things. Starting right here. They didn’t win California.