Solving Problems through Proper Management

By Cynthia Batt

What I learned from my MBA studies and over 25 years as a successful small business owner is how critical it is in any enterprise to separate symptoms from problems. Addressing symptoms does not solve problems. It postpones problems. The sanitary district is just like any small business that sells a product or service. In this case, the business of the sanitary district is to treat waste water safely and efficiently, to maintain a reliable infrastructure, and to provide these services to customers at the lowest possible rates. The problem is not the pipes but developing an adequate plan to maintain and replace the aging infrastructure. The problem is developing a funding plan to pay for this plan. The pipes did not become a problem overnight and will not be solved overnight. It will take a strong board with a clear mandate to develop a plan and then put it in place.

It has only been in the last two years that the Sanitary District has begun to take baby steps toward operating the district in a business-like manner. I applaud the hiring of a new finance director and the purchase of an accounting software system. Accounting systems and financial reporting systems are road plans which should be reviewed each year. There is other important work to be done and it is critical that The Board have members with the vision to achieve success and the proven management skills to effectively turn that vision into a reality to achieve the quality of service the residents of Tiburon and Belvedere deserve. I know how to turn visions into reality. I have the experience. I have created and managed an exceptionally successful business that continues to thrive in the difficult economic environment of today. I have the ability to determine the problems from the symptoms. I am resourceful and know how to think outside the box. I know how to make difficult decisions. I have the ability and the skill sets that are necessary to turn the Sanitary District #5 into one of the most succesful in the Southern Marin County.

I will make this promise, whether or not I am elected to the Board of Directors, that I will continue to attend their meetings to make sure that the residents of Tiburon and Belvedere receive the service that they need and deserve.