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Should Humboldt County limit campaign donations to $500 per donor?

As it stands, local candidates running for public office may solicit or accept up to $1,500 in campaign contributions per donor per election cycle, a limitation that was approved by the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors a little over eight years ago. During today’s meeting, Fifth District Supervisor and Board Chair Steve Madrone sought to take the county’s existing ordinance one step further and limit campaign contributions to $500 per donor to level the playing field among candidates.

The existing ordinance aims “to reduce the influence of large contributions to ensure that individuals and interest groups continue to have a fair and equal opportunity to participate in electing county candidates and to maintain public trust in governmental institutions and the electoral process,” according to its text. Even still, Madrone said he had “identified several places” where change would be beneficial.

“Some folks are able to raise really big money with a lot of $1,500 donations,” Madrone said. “Others are not able to raise that kind of money. So my thought was, there [are] a lot of really incredible people out there in our community and I’m sure that some of them are daunted to even consider running because of the cost to run, pay for ads and all that kind of stuff. I just thought it would level the playing field a little better to make it $500.”

Second District Supervisor Michelle Bushnell said she “pulled campaign contributions” and found that each member of the board had received individual donations that exceeded $500 per donor, aside from Third District Supervisor Mike Wilson whose information was not available, though Bushnell did not explain why. 

“I’m wondering why, now that your election’s over, Supervisor Madrone, you [would] bring this forward?” Bushnell asked.

“That’s a good question,” Madrone replied. “I’ve been thinking about this for a number of years. I didn’t bring it forward simply because I’m not running again. Even if I was running again, I would support that $500.”

Fourth District Supervisor Natalie Arroyo asked Madrone if he could explain the “very confusing escalation clause” outlined in the existing ordinance that allows for increased campaign contributions under special circumstances. 

According to the ordinance, “In any election cycle where independent expenditures totaling more than $10,000.00 are made to support or oppose any candidate for county office, the $1,500.00 limit imposed by this section shall be increased to $5,000.00 for all candidates running for the same seat.” In such an instance, no candidate would be allowed to accept any contributions that “would cause the total amount contributed by such person to such candidate … to exceed $5,000.00.”

Madrone said he wasn’t familiar with the case law surrounding independent expenditures but noted that “there was more than $10,000 spent [in] one the races” during the last election. “Part of the problem is there’s also a clause that you have to report those things … not only to the elections office, but also to the other candidates in any particular race, and that hasn’t been getting adhered to by independent expenditure individuals.” He suggested county staff look into the matter further.

Speaking during public comment, Sheriff William Honsal utilized the old adage: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”

Honsal | Screenshot

“As someone who’s ran two campaigns, you know, it is a pain to raise money,” Honsal said. “And to have a campaign that goes countywide is very expensive. One thing that I think you need to also realize is … it is expensive to advertise and to run any kind of media during [presidential election years] as opposed to off years. The sheriff just got moved to the presidential election and … when that election does happen, it’s going to be very expensive.”

Going back to the board, Bushnell reiterated that she didn’t see any reason to change the existing ordinance. 

Arroyo said she didn’t know what the limit should be, “whether it’s $1,000 or something different,” but felt as though the campaign contribution limit should be lower than $1,500.

“I talk to people all the time who are interested in running for office who are not politically well-connected but are interested in making a difference or in serving their community, who are terrified about the idea of having to raise so much money to compete,” Arroyo said. “I don’t know what the right answer is … but if people feel that the expectation is a little bit lower and easier to be on the same footing as others, I believe that could potentially encourage more people to run for office.”

Wilson’s comments focused on the outdated language of the ordinance. “Instead of ‘his or hers’ we can just put ‘candidate’ and modernize the language.” Wilson also poked fun at a requirement listed in the ordinance that required a candidate to communicate with the Registrar of Voters via telegram.

Returning to Arroyo’s earlier question about independent expenditures, County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Juan Pablo Cervantes said staff would have to look at the reporting requirements outlined by the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) and report back to the board. 

Cervantes | Screenshot

“Independent expenditures have their own reporting structure,” he said. “They file forms in the same way that y’all do when you receive contributions or make expenditures. That’s the mechanism that this ordinance relies on. So yeah, [staff would] have to look at that ordinance or that piece of FPPC code that impacts that.”

First District Supervisor Rex Bohn questioned whether looking into the matter further was a proper use of staff time. “Is this really where we want to send our staff when we’re looking at what’s going on around our county?” he asked. “Every minute we spend on staff time takes away from building improvements, mental health, homeless[ness] … I’d like to be more selective on what we’re spending our staff time on.”

Wilson emphasized that “the influence of money in our democracy is always an issue” and is “something we have to continuously work on.” He noted that the campaign limit is one issue, but the “bigger glaring hole” has to do with independent expenditures.

Wilson made a motion to direct staff to look into the matter further and to report back with some recommendations and alternatives for the board. Arroyo seconded.

Bushnell echoed Bohn’s concerns surrounding the use of staff time, adding that she “feels really bad for staff at times.”

Cervantes acknowledged staffing issues in the county but said, “I don’t think this needs to be so complicated.”

“I don’t think we need to reinvent the wheel,” he said. “I’d feel comfortable with my office spearheading the grunt work and passing on things to county counsel once it gets to a point where we need to see legal feasibility or liability.”

Bushnell was relieved.

“I feel much better with you saying this doesn’t need to be complicated,” she said. “I really appreciate that statement a lot.”

The board passed the motion in a unanimous 5-0 vote.

Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

On March 10, 2023, Humboldt County Sheriff’s Special Services deputies were dispatched to conduct a welfare check on two Panther Gap Road residents who were snowed in and hadn’t been in contact with family for over two weeks.

Deputies attempted to access the residences utilizing the Sheriff’s SnoCat, however, they were met with several feet of snow and numerous downed trees. Deputies worked throughout the day to cut and clear the trees. It was determined that the amount of trees and snow exceeded the capabilities of HCSO resources, and additional manpower and a bulldozer would be required to clear the roadway.

During their efforts to secure a bulldozer for this mission, deputies were contacted by a local company, Xotic Flavors, who volunteered the use of their bulldozer that was already in the Honeydew area. Additionally, firefighters with Petrolia Fire and Honeydew Fire were requested to assist with clearing trees.

Together, on March 12, deputies and assisting crews worked for approximately 8 hours in pouring rain to clear the roadway in order to reach the homes. Deputies contacted both residents, who were found to be alive, well and extremely grateful.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank Cody King, Arul Camacho, Trevor Scott with Xotic Flavors, Petrolia Fire, Honeydew Fire and the Honeydew community, whose invaluable assistance contributed to the success of this mission.

This incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness, including having enough supplies at home to last for several weeks should you be unable to leave due to a disaster or emergency. To learn more about how to begin preparing, visit: https://www.ready.gov/kit

For updated weather hazards and current emergency information, visit: humboldtsheriff.org/emergency.

Press release from the Eureka Police Department:

Miller

On Monday, March 13th at approximately 9:37 p.m., a Sergeant with the Eureka Police Department (EPD) was on patrol and observed 34-year-old Clayton Miller of Fortuna walking on foot in a gravel parking lot at the 800 block of West Hawthorne.

Miller was wanted in connection to an attempted murder in which the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Department is investigating.

When the Sergeant attempted to contact Miller, he fled on foot deeper into the property. Officers immediately set up a perimeter around the property and began search efforts in locating Miller.

The Humboldt County Multi-Agency SWAT team was requested to the scene where they conducted a thorough search of the property and ultimately located and detained Miller without incident. He was transported and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility for his outstanding warrants.

EPD would like to thank the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Department and California State Parks for their assistance in safely apprehending Miller.

PREVIOUSLY:

• Deputies Chase Wanted Suspect From Hydesville to Kneeland and Into the Woods; Suspect Found at Night When Companion Knocks on Resident’s Door, Asking for Help
• Hydesville Man Wanted for Battery and False Imprisonment Coaxed From Attic by Deputies Utilizing ‘Non-Lethal Chemical Agent’
• ATTEMPTED MURDER INVESTIGATION: Sheriff’s Office Seeking Suspect They Say Shot at a Man Exiting His Home

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Holy moly, it’s a soggy one. The latest atmospheric river has been dumping precipitation across our already-waterlogged region, causing widespread flooding, swelling the Eel River beyond its banks and, near the Humboldt-Mendocino County border, collapsing a big section of Hwy. 101. 

Caltrans tweeted about the road conditions this morning:

Following slipout activity on US 101 near Cooks Valley in southern Humboldt, 24-7 monitoring continues. If the highway is open, it’s safe. Crews are conducting and planning stabilization efforts including the use of soil nails. Updates here and via https://t.co/faudYOtp7p pic.twitter.com/92P9cw582P

— Caltrans District 1 (@CaltransDist1) March 14, 2023

Meanwhile, the County of Humboldt is reporting half a dozen closed roads due to flooding, including Berta Road (near Humboldt Hill), portions of Elk River Road, Old Arcata Road between Jacoby Creek Road and Graham Road, Howard Heights Road and Hookton Road between Clough Road and Eel River Drive.

Stay safe out there, folks.

Brian Chester Campbell
April 23, 1975 - March 9, 2023

Brian Chester Campbell suddenly passed away the morning of Thursday, March 9, 2023. We take comfort in knowing Brian, a lifelong follower of Jesus Christ, rests securely in the arms of his Savior.

Born to Ernest Darrell and Betty Campbell on April 23, 1975 in Crescent City, Brian grew up in a large and vibrant family. He was the second of four sons, and his brothers were always his best friends. Some of their activities together included singing in choirs, playing in bands, playing sports, and many road trips with family to see their many uncles, aunts, cousins and friends. As they grew older, they visited each other often, served in various church ministries together, and got to see their kids growing up together.

Brian graduated Del Norte High School in 1993, and in his senior year, he was selected on his football team as the “Most Improved Defensive Lineman.” This is where he earned the nickname “Grave Digger.” Despite the nickname, he was a kind-hearted and gentle person. When anyone picked on the freshmen by putting them in trash cans, not only would Brian stick up for them, but he would put the bully in the trash can! He went on to earn an Associates Degree and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology.

Brian was very imaginative and creative. He was always involved with some sort of creative activity. He filled notebooks with puppet shows and children’s stories to read to his ministry kids and eventually his own children. He wrote skits for church and he, along with his brothers and cousins, wrote, choreographed, and costumed skits for movie premiers they performed at the opening of their favorite movies at a local theater. You never knew if Brian was writing a Sunday School curriculum, composing a musical piece, or filming a movie in the wee hours of the morning. One of his favorite past times was weaving stories with his sons, some of those stories spanned years.

An avid musician his whole life, Brian was a part of jazz bands, marching bands, concert bands, worship bands, choirs, and even the Humboldt Harmonaires. Having given his life to Jesus at a young age, Brian served the Lord in many different ways; he served as a children’s church pastor, youth pastor, worship leader, children’s music ministries, and church choirs to name a few. Some of our most cherished memories involve Brian playing the trombone, Rodney on the trumpet, Travis on the saxophone, Jamie on the drums, and their mother Betty on the piano, lifting up their praise to the Lord, singing hymns surrounded by friends and family. When the brothers got together, whether it was for a wedding or a funeral, many times family members would ask if they brought their instruments, and most of the time, they had.

Scripture tells us “unless you turn and become like a child, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.” We have confidence that Brian, who, despite his many challenges in life, lived in childlike wonder of God, has received his promised gift of eternal life with Jesus.

Brian is survived by his two beloved sons, Isaac and Micah Campbell; parents Betty Incerty (Steve) and Ernest Darrell Campbell (Clare); brothers Rodney (Jen), Travis (Misty), Jamie (Alyssa), countless uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

There will be a Celebration of Brian’s Life on March 18, 2023 at The Journey, 95 Belleview in Rio Dell at 2 p.m., reception to follow. There will be a viewing at Gobles Mortuary on March 18, 10 a.m.-noon.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Brian Campbell’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.

Bonnie Jean Sears (Schultz), age 72, of Holmes Flat, passed peacefully in her home with family by her side on December 27, 2022.

Bonnie was born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, at the United States Naval Hospital, to Benny and Genevieve Schultz on August 24, 1950. She was the only daughter and oldest of three children. As the child of a Marine Sergeant, Bonnie lived in many different cities and states around the United States. Bonnie presented a fun loving personality and made friends easily everywhere she went.

Bonnie met the love of her life, John Sears, while living in Anaheim. They moved to Humboldt County in 1973 and were married in 1978. In 1979 Bonnie and John purchased their home in Holmes Flat where they raised three daughters — Michelle, Erica and Patrica.

Bonnie is best known for her fun personality and ability to make a meal out of anything. She was an amazing cook who didn’t need recipes or measuring spoons and always made the best meals. She worked at several restaurants throughout Humboldt County. Some of Bonnie’s favorite workplaces included the Redcrest Cafe, Hansen’s Truck Stop, the Fortuna Bowling Alley (where she met two of her dearest friends, Phyllis Branstetter and Billy Toller), the Country Kitchen, and the kitchen at Redwood Memorial Hospital.

Bonnie was always up for a good time and living life to the fullest with her friends and family. In her spare time, Bonnie loved to garden, boss around her oldest daughter (ha ha), watch movies with her youngest daughter, and watch Gunsmoke and cowboy shows with her husband.

Bonnie is survived by her husband, John Sears, daughters, Michelle Brazil (Eric), Erica Ferreira, and Patrica Sorci (Jeremy), and nine grandchildren: Stephen, Allen, Christian, Dustin, Serena, Trinity, Trinidad, Sam, and Ben, and two brothers, Steve Schultz and Mike Schultz. She is preceded in death by her parents, Benny and Genny Schultz.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Bonnie Sears’ loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.

Deborah Loomis Henehan died peacefully on February 8, 2023, two and a half years after her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. In her last months, she was lovingly tended to by her niece, and great niece (Tanya and Brynn DeNee). In death, just as in life, she was surrounded by loving friends and family.

She was predeceased by her parents, Frances and Francis Henehan of Victor, New York and her brother Brooks Henehan of Marathon, Florida. She is survived by her brother David L. Henehan of Henrietta, New York, her nieces, Tanya DeNee (Jeffrey) of Naples New York, and Kirsten Bulich of Catskill, New York; nephews Brendan Henehan (Michelle), of Hall, New York, Shawn Frazier (Candace) of Yukon, Oklahoma, and Ian McBride of Marathon, Florida, and many close and loving cousins, great nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her former husband Stephen Brudney (her “sweetie”) with whom she remained very connected to, as well as Steve’s children; Adam Brudney (Katelyn) and Emily Brudney Gruppman (Nathan), along with five step-grandchildren. She leaves behind many treasured and loving friends.

Deborah was compassionate, generous, outspoken, and spirited. She had an infectious playfulness and love of life and was both child-like and wise. She was a fierce advocate for disenfranchised and underserved populations and environmental justice issues. Deborah would say that if she had a religion, it was kindness. She loved to dance, and deeply loved animals and being outdoors — walking, hiking, swimming, camping, and backpacking.

Deborah was born on June 18, 1947 in Victor, New York and lived on the family estate “Ingleside” where she was raised and able to spend her summers on Canandaigua Lake at the family cottage. Deborah graduated from Victor Central School, received her associate degree from Vermont College and her undergraduate degree from Colorado State University. After receiving her bachelor’s, she explored life and worked in various fields, including owning a health food store in State College, Penn.

Eventually she found her way to California, where she attended and graduated from University of California, Los Angeles with a Master’s degree in Social Work and subsequently gained her clinical license (LCSW). Deborah lived and worked in Los Angeles for 15 years as a therapist until she couldn’t ‘take LA anymore’ and moved north to Humboldt County. In the early 1990s she worked at Northcountry Clinic in Arcata and later at Willow Creek Clinic until she retired. There she formed many close and lasting friendships.

Deborah is deeply missed by all who love her. The world has truly lost a profoundly loving soul - as if a light has gone out. But with this loss comes a continued gift – her legacy of love , playfulness and wisdom. Her precious presence remains here with us.

Special thanks for the extra loving help of a circle of close friends and relatives who assisted greatly at the end of Deborah’s time in this life plane.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Deborah Henehan loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.