Editorials

A group's attempt to ban fracking and severely restrict all petroleum production in San Benito County is nothing more than extremist politics in an attempt to push the anti-fossil fuel agenda.

Considering the known health impacts from tobacco residue, it might seem like an obvious decision to ban smoking 24 hours a day in licensed home daycare facilities. A disclosure requirement at the homes where someone smokes, however, accomplishes the same goal while allowing residents to maintain personal freedom in their homes.

When comparing the county's two largest school districts, the difference in transparency is clear.

San Juan Bautista is coming around on some of the city government's antiquated economic development policies.

Time and again over the years, Councilwoman Pauline Valdivia has defended her previously consistent stance to vote on city compensation matters such as contracts for workers, with questions arising periodically because her daughter is a Hollister employee.

County Superintendent Mike Sanchez has been a tremendous asset to this community for nearly four decades and is preparing for a well-deserved retirement come December. Sanchez has served as superintendent since his appointment in 2009 following former Superintendent Tim Foley's mid-term retirement. Before taking on the top job in local education ranks, Sanchez had served as assistant superintendent and principal at San Andreas Continuation High School.

As long as liability issues are in order, officials with the county and City of Hollister are responding aptly to a community need by supporting a new BMX facility next to the skate park.

All too often in this county, people and groups are in it for themselves on matters of major significance to the rest of the community. All too often, selfishness trumps progress to the masses.