I’m a grant writer and project manager in affordable housing, generally in Monterey County, East Bay, or out-of-state. This February I went to Sacramento for an all-day workshop sponsored by the State Department of Housing and Community Development to explain their radically revised grant application regulations for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. It was the first in a series held around the state. At 9 a.m., I looked at the table to the left of me, and there was Doug Emerson! On his own time, he had volunteered to attend the workshop so that Hollister/San Benito/local non-profit staff could get a jump on finding out how to fill out the applications, instead of waiting three weeks later for the workshop in Salinas. I consider this a typical example of his practical approach, unselfishness, and understanding of how to get things done. He straightened out the mess with the state over the CDBG grant that prevented the City of Hollister for applying for funds for something like eight years. He’s sensible, well prepared in his Council deliberations and has a proven track record in collaboration and partnership building. I think he’s exactly what we need for the brightest possible future for our community.
Jennifer Coile, Hollister
