March 2024 Farm Bureau Election Endorsements
In our ever-changing world, it is essential to have leaders who understand the unique challenges and opportunities faced by our agricultural community. Since 1913, the Napa County Farm Bureau has been more than just an organization, it has been a vital part of our community’s fabric. Our mission has always been clear: to ensure the proper political, social, and economic climate for the continuation of a strong, viable, and sustainable agricultural economy in Napa County. In this pursuit, we believe it is crucial to lend our support to political candidates who reflect a commitment to Napa County agriculture’s prosperity and well-being.
The upcoming March primary election in Napa County is a pivotal one. It will prove to be impactful not only for agriculture, but for our communities as a whole.
On October 9, the Napa County Farm Bureau Board of Directors convened and carefully considered all of the candidates in the races for Napa County Supervisor in District 2, District 4 and District 5. All of the currently declared candidates in each of these supervisorial district races (Ryan Gregory, Amber Manfree, Pete Mott, Kim Richard, Belia Ramos and Mariam Aboudamous) each voluntarily applied for our endorsement. Candidates were then required to complete a comprehensive questionnaire. Our elections endorsement committee subsequently interviewed all of the candidates to better understand their positions.
After careful deliberation, our board of directors voted to endorse Ryan Gregory for District 2 Supervisor, Pete Mott for District 4 Supervisor and Mariam Aboudamous for District 5 Supervisor. Each of these candidates were able to display a breadth of knowledge not only about agriculture, but about the many policy areas that encompass the duties of a county supervisor. Our board came away convinced that they would do the best job for our community and that they deserve your support.
Ryan Gregory – District 2
Ryan Gregory has developed extensive experience having served on the Board of Supervisors for the last seven years. He has proven himself to be a collaborator and willing to work with all sides to achieve sensible outcomes. Our experience has been that Gregory is an accessible supervisor who is always willing to listen and work to achieve consensus. He has been practical and prudent in his decision-making and has always demonstrated a reasoned approach. We believe he should be re-elected to another term on the Board of Supervisors representing District 2.
Pete Mott – District 4
Pete Mott brings to the table a wide array of experience and a broad range of knowledge. Mott is a former Napa City Councilman who understands the interplay between the city and county. Mott is in a unique position to successfully address both agricultural issues in Napa County and the range of other significant issues that a county supervisor must tackle. Mott has held a number of leadership positions in our community, including his work with the Napa Valley Transportation Authority, the Joint Napa City/County Affordable Housing Task Force and the Napa Valley Waste Management Authority. Mott has also been a staunch defender of our open spaces where he was instrumental in creating Park Rangers to safeguard our parks and trails. Mott’s extensive record of community service and his prior experience in government give him the necessary background to effectively represent District 4.
Mariam Aboudamous – District 5
Mariam Aboudamous has impressed us with her demonstrated ability to collaborate and create a clear and uplifting vision for District 5. Our board recognized Aboudamous' unparalleled expertise, skill, and insight in understanding crucial public policy challenges and developing unique solutions that succeed. A formidable leader in Napa County, Aboudamous is a high vote-getter on the American Canyon City Council and has an excellent grasp on issues impacting her community and the rest of the county. Aboudamous unquestionably possesses the best and most comprehensive skill set necessary to effectively represent District 5, with a leadership style that prioritizes collaboration and sound judgment. We believe Aboudamous represents the change that is needed at the Board of Supervisors to bring a more educated and skilled approach to decision making.
As the election season unfolds, we urge our members and supporters of Napa County agriculture to make their voices heard by casting their votes for these endorsed candidates on March 5. Our future depends on the strength and resilience of Napa County agriculture, and together, we can secure a prosperous agricultural future for all.
Peter Nissen
President
Napa County Farm Bureau