Editorial: Providing an Open and Fair Forum for Voters
The Sentinel recently published campaign statements from candidates Meredith Blain, Trent Williams, James “Scott” Laing, and William M. Buhnerkempe running for MFPD board positions. Every candidate running for office is entitled to equal access to share their platform with our readers. Beyond candidate-submitted statements, we welcome community perspectives through op-eds, asking only that contributors maintain respectful language and adhere to verified facts. Candidate Jackie LeMasters contacted us to participate, and her campaign statement is presented in full below.
Campaign Stement of Jackie LeMasters
“Jacke LeMasters is a longtime Mosquito resident, former 10-year volunteer firefighter, and State of California investigator. She is running to bring transparent, balanced leadership, support firefighter recruitment and retention, strengthen the Chief’s operational backing, and advance the Shared Services Agreement. I have lived in Mosquito on and off since 1990 and grew up alongside many of the people who still call this community home. I fell in love with Mosquito years ago, and in 1996 I purchased my home and property here. I have been proud to call this community home ever since. I am running for the Mosquito Fire Protection District Board because I believe I can bring balance, transparency, accountability, and thoughtful decision-making to our district. My goal is to make sure our resources are used responsibly and directed where they are needed most. I want to actively engage with residents, support our firefighters and volunteers, and help restore the traditions and activities that keep our community connected.I served as a volunteer firefighter in Mosquito for 10 years. That experience gave me firsthand knowledge of the importance of strong leadership, responsible budgeting, clear policies, regulatory compliance, and public accountability. I understand that the Board must support the Fire Chief and department with sound administrative direction while allowing the Chief to lead daily operations. Today, I work for the State of California as an investigator. My work requires me to remain impartial, listen to all sides, review evidence and documentation, and make fair, fact-based decisions. I believe those skills will help me be an effective and respectful Board member who can help solve problems and bring people together. One of my top priorities is moving the Shared Services Agreement forward. This agreement can improve training opportunities, firefighter recruitment and retention, access to resources, grant support, and the overall level of emergency service in Mosquito. We need clear communication, transparency, and progress on the issues that most directly affect public safety. I am committed to preserving the small-community spirit that makes Mosquito special while helping our fire department meet today’s needs. I would be honored to earn your vote and work with our residents, volunteers, and Fire Chief to build a stronger, safer, and more united community.”
While the Sentinel reports on local matters and provides a platform for discussion, we remain mindful of external public records and organizational guidelines that inform the community. This includes the recent Eldorado County Grand Jury Report regarding the Mosquito Fire Protection District. Additionally, questions have been raised regarding campaign activities associated with the Mosquito Firesafe Council. As a component of the El Dorado County Fire Safe Council, which operates under Section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the council is legally banned from political campaigning. We urge voters to scrutinize all public records and candidate conduct. While the Sentinel may hold policy and candidate preferences, ultimately, voters have access to far more insight than any single outlet and should decide based on the totality of available information.
