Petaluma election guide

Election day is Nov. 8, and this year’s ballot is one of the largest in recent history. Besides the presidential race and 17 statewide ballot initiatives, a host of county, city and district races have captured voters’ attention.

Here are the Argus-Courier’s recommendations for local initiatives and candidates:

Petaluma City Council - Mike Healy, Kathy Miller, Gabe Kearney

The three incumbents on the city council, Mike Healy, Kathy Miller and Gabe Kearney, have worked hard to improve Petaluma and, perhaps more importantly, have worked collegially with their colleagues to accomplish the city’s goals. There is more work to be done and, with their invaluable experience, the three incumbents are well-positioned to continue that work.

Petaluma Joint Union High School District - Frank Lynch, Mary Johnson

A former Petaluma High School principal and district superintendent, Frank Lynch brings a wealth of experience in education and would fit right in on the board with minimal training. Mary Johnson, the incumbent in the race, has demonstrated a strong desire to improve Petaluma schools, a keen understanding of complex issues and a willingness to work hard for parents, students and teachers.

Old Adobe School District - Jon Lenz, Heather Burton

Jon Lenz has a deep background in school administration, and has his finger on the pulse of the education world. Heather Burton, having worked in a county finance department, brings valuable experience in public sector budgeting that would be an important asset.

State Assembly - Marc Levine (D)

Representing Petaluma in the Assembly since 2012, Marc Levine of San Rafael has proven he can get things done in Sacramento, and he has more work to do.

State Senate - Bill Dodd (D)

Assemblyman Bill Dodd, a centrist politician from Napa, has demonstrated an ability to work across the aisle and bring all sides to the table.

U.S. Congress - Jared Huffman (D)

Amid the partisan gridlock that has paralyzed Washington, Jared Huffman of San Rafael has been able to make some breakthroughs, preserving coastal lands and sponsoring legislation to respond to the drought.

Measure I, Wilmar school $75 parcel tax - Yes

An extension of the Wilmar School District tax would allow Wilson School to maintain small class sizes, keep the library open, provide books and technology in the classroom and continue the music program.

Measure X, Waugh school $4 million bonds - Yes

The money will be spent to upgrade the aging Corona Creek Elementary and Meadow Elementary schools.

Measure J, Regional park tax - Yes

Officials estimate that the half-cent sales tax will generate $95 million over its 10-year term, revenue that will go toward building new parks and enhancing existing ones, including Tolay Lake and Helen Putnam regional parks.

Measure K, Community separators - Yes

The notion of surrounding our cities with agricultural land is something that speaks to the very core of Sonoma County values. We take pride in our individual cities and the character of the county as a whole.

Measure L, County hotel tax - Yes

The modest tax increase on hotel stays, which is expected to generate $4.8 million per year, will go to offset the very impacts of the tourists staying in those hotels.

Measure M, GMO growing ban - Yes

By passing Measure M, we can ensure that there will be no question that produce marketed as being grown in Sonoma County is GMO-free.

Measure Y, County library tax - Yes

The Sonoma County Library is asking voters for a modest one-eighth-cent sales tax increase, which could transform the library system into a community resource that is on par with others in the region.