I am voting for Keith Caldwell because I believe he is the best choice for Napa County supervisor to represent all of District Five and all of Napa County. He is the only candidate that has lived in both the Napa and American Canyon parts of the district and knows well the issues in both communities. He does his homework. He faithfully attends supervisor, Local Agency Formation Commission and Napa County Transportation and Planning Agency meetings (and more) and is well-versed on the issues brought forth in these venues. Keith understands the importance of agriculture and open space in Napa County and has pledged to protect both. He considers agriculture the economic engine of the county.

Keith’s 17 years as American Canyon’s fire chief enabled him to successfully work cooperatively with key decision-makers in a variety of public agencies and private entities throughout the county. He understands the necessity of cooperation and collaboration. As a councilmember, I know, along with my colleagues, that we can work with Keith to achieve the common goals of our city, the county as well as those of all of the city councils throughout Napa County.

Under his leadership the American Canyon Fire Department built a reputation of excellence, both in Napa County and the state. Keith is a “numbers guy” and was responsible for developing and maintaining a balanced budget for the department. Early this year, American Canyon completed a new, $8 million, state-of-the-art, award-winning public safety building, housing a new police and fire station. Keith, as project manager, brought the building to completion within 1 percent of the budget, a feat almost unheard of in this day and age.

Before American Canyon incorporated in 1992, law enforcement consisted of two Napa County Sheriff’s deputies shared with Lake Berryessa. It was essential for American Canyon to expand law enforcement, and eventually the American Canyon Police Department was created. Mark Joseph, city manager at the time, recommended Doug Koford to be the police chief. Keith, as fire chief, was very instrumental in working closely with Doug in helping him understand the American Canyon community and its needs. That was the beginning of what is now a first-class American Canyon Police Department.

Open space, access to parks and other outdoor recreation opportunities are passions of Keith’s. Much of his little spare time is spent improving the 640-acre Newell Preserve so that Boy Scouts and others can enjoy hiking, camping and other outdoor activities. He was a signer on the ballot establishing the Napa County Parks and Open Space District.

Keith is a doer. He is energetic, competent and a quick study. He is used to making important decisions, some quickly, and others after thoughtful deliberation. And, he is fair.

Not since the late, great statesman, John “Micky” Mikolajcik, has American Canyon had the opportunity to elect a supervisor as committed to community and all of District Five as they do today. Keith Caldwell for supervisor — the best choice.