Name: Gary Thomas

Place of residence: Ione 

Present water source: Amador Water Agency

Years in district: 44

Employment situation: Mule Creek State Prison electrician

Related experience: Ione City Council (eight years), Ione Planning Commission (three years), Amador Economic Development Corp. (three years), Amador County Transportation Commission (three years), Ione Parks & Recreation Commission (two years)

Educational background: San Joaquin Delta College, Sierra College

Reasons for candidacy: Representation for the Ione area and for the owners of the water agency (the citizens of Amador County, 35,000 strong)

Changes you would make: See below answers to questions 3 and 4.

What private sector jobs have you held and for how long?

I worked for Owens-Illinois, now Unimen, for 15 1/2 years (1972-1987).

What public sector jobs have you held and for how long?

I have worked as an electrician at Mule Creek State Prison for 21 years (1987-present date).

What are your "hot button" issues?

The issues that concern me most are the increasing water rates that reflect ratepayers paying for developments' share. Trustworthiness - the water agency issued boil water notices well after the citizens of Ione drank bad water. Many people in Ione I have talked to are still very upset over this issue. The Camanche Water System was inspected by the state Department of Health after citizens complaints, and the water agency told the department that the problems were fixed when they weren't. Casino - I will not support a will serve letter for water when the citizens of Amador County (the true owners of the water agency) have strongly voted 85 percent against a casino. Representation - representation for the Ione/Camanche/Carbondale area should be by someone who lives in that area. My opponent lives in Amador City, which is more in line with the needs of Sutter Creek or Plymouth.

Do you think there is adequate water for future growth in Amador County?

There is not adequate water for future growth in Amador County. It is estimated that in the year 2030 there will be no water for new customers. The growth rate does not include a casino or major development.

Do you favor a federal classification of any part of the Mokelumne River as "wild and scenic"?

I will be studying this issue in the near future.

Do you belong to any local organizations?

I don't belong to any organizations presently. I wish to remain free of any conflict of interest. I do participate in many local and county activities. In the past, I have been involved with coaching youth sports and the Historic Preston Restoration Foundation.

How do you feel about the water agency's involvement in wastewater systems?

The water agency must reuse some of its water. This will help extend our water supply into the future. I feel the need for the water agency to be involved in wastewater for this reason.

Should the water agency get involved in the land use decision making process, or should it maintain its existing policy of simply responding to requests for water and/or wastewater service once a project has been submitted or approved?

The water agency should be involved in the land use decision-making process by taking an active part.

Are you either supporting, or endorsing, any other water agency board candidates?

Yes, I support all candidates and am proud of the fact they would want to represent the citizens of Amador County.

Have you been discussing your campaign with any other candidates for the water agency board?

I have briefly spoken to the other candidates.