Past and Present Oceano Oracles

By Mark Wampler

The ruling parties of special interest have dominated Oceano's landscape for decades. In 2004, a shift towards fairness across the playing field for Oceano's citizens began. By supporting Pamela Dean and Mark Wampler for new district board directors, the proper balance of the board will be achieved. You may logon to Mr. Wampler's webpage at mark4ocsd.com and Ms. Dean's website at dean4ocsd.com

In times past, Oceano's citizens have lacked the perceived opportunity to become more involved in policy and decision making on the district level. Much of the public was treated with disrespect and many refused to attend meetings. There is still much work to be done to unravel the typical small town crony network that has derailed worthy community concerns and left legitimate projects in shambles. Ratepayers who visit the district office are often treated rudely and little to no attention is paid to complaints. The thrust of this campaign centers around "cleaning house".

THE GOOD NEWS

Starting with the last election in 2004, a new turn towards accountability in district affairs began. Through the hard work of newly elected director Jim Hill and a few citizens, televised district meetings became a reality through AGP video, the standard bearer in public government broadcasting. Since televised meetings, a few key policies were enacted such as striking down a special health insurance perk, saving rate payers a potential of over an estimated $40,000 per year. By working with Mr. Hill and others, Mr. Wampler struck down an illegal clause on the district's will serve letters. Oceano's district meetings may be viewed on cable channel 21. Logon to AGP's website at slo-span.org for programming schedule.

OCEANO ADVISORY COUNCIL

In 1996, the county board of supervisors authorized local advisory councils or committees to be organized as a liaison representing the voice of local citizens in non-incorporated areas such as Oceano. Citizens are to bring their building project concerns, land use ordinance, planning and public works related issues to the council. The councils give their opinions based on the perspective of the collective will of the people to county public works, planning and the board of supervisors. Advisory councils have no decision-making component within their bylaws or in council meetings. Final decisions are made by county offices.

The make up of advisory councils are to be centered around all volunteer, non-compensated individuals from the local community. A wide range of opinions are encouraged as different sectors of the community are represented. Presently, the voice of the community IS NOT being represented as over one third of council members are either OCSD STAFF or BOARD members. At this time, OCSD general manager, administrative assistant and two OCSD board members are seated on the council who are able to carry out overpowering influence. One other member lives in Nipomo and has no vested interest in Oceano. The configuration of the council has the potential to invite Brown act and/or conflicts of interest violations. Oceano does not need the possibility of legal action to futher discredit the Council. A request was made before the board of supervisors calling for a new set of universal bylaws to be established that would curb such activities for all county advisory groups. Local citizens should consider filling a vital role in Oceano's growth by serving on the council.