Moraga-Orinda Fire District
Vote for Cohn
I have known Steve Cohn for 37 years. He has been an advocate for improving our community environment and a resource for understanding financial transactions involving our tax dollars. I have witnessed Steve’s commitment to Orinda and his determination to improve our community. He brings intelligence, experience, common sense and integrity to everything he does.
I taught a graduate course at UC Berkeley on wildfires in the wildland-urban interface. Knowing Steve’s passion for making Orinda safer, I invited him to participate. I brought 15 experts to lecture on wildland fire behavior, mitigation, planning and community resilience. Steve immersed himself in the subject, engaged with experts, asked probing questions and enriched his knowledge. Steve connected the research and expertise with the challenges facing Orinda. He raised Orinda-specific issues, including the potential use of Morago-Orinda Fire District (MOFD) reserves for wildfire mitigation strategies supported by extensive research and practical planning.
Steve does not just talk about making Orinda better, he listens, asks difficult questions, seeks out the facts, learns from experts and works to find solutions. I have no hesitation in saying that he is a dedicated leader of the highest integrity. Please join me in supporting this dedicated leader, Steve Cohn, for MOFD Director, Division 3.
– John Radke | Orinda
Vote for Cohn
I was very happy to learn that Steve Cohn, a longtime Orinda resident, is running for the position of director for the Moraga-Orinda Fire District (MOFD) in District 3, my own district. I have worked with Steve for several years and I know that he is devoted to making Orinda a better city for us all. In this case, Steve’s background in engineering and financial analysis will offer the MOFD a fresh diagnostic eye.
I particularly am interested in his suggestions for the allocation of the large tax surpluses the MOFD expects in the coming years. While he is committed to the MOFD’s financial stability, he has also advocated for more of those funds being dedicated to wildfire prevention. Orindans need more wildfire modeling, more wildfire mitigation and more specific evacuation study. Those areas would be great investments for our safety and would complement the city’s efforts significantly. Such increased funding might impress insurers enough to get some of us off the California FAIR Plan.
Steve is a numbers’ person and an Orinda resident who will work for the MOFD and for Orinda. Please cast your vote for Steve Cohn on Nov. 3, MOFD District 3.
– Kathleen Finch | Orinda
Vote for Stevens
I am writing to express my strong support for Linda Stevens for the Moraga-Orinda Fire District (MOFD) Board of Directors, District 4.
I was born and raised in Orinda and am currently Linda’s neighbor. I have seen firsthand her compassion, integrity and deep commitment to our community. I believe her combination of professional experience, technical expertise and dedication to Orinda makes her exceptionally well suited for this position.
For more than 40 years, Linda has worked in the geospatial industry, developing technology that helps save lives and support firefighters and first responders. She also spent 28 years as an executive at ESRI, a leading geographic information systems company. Her firsthand understanding of modern technology, data and spatial planning could help MOFD improve firefighter safety, efficiency and wildfire preparedness.
Linda also served on the board of the Southern California Mountains Foundation, where she experienced the dangers and devastation of wildfires firsthand. That experience gave her valuable insight into wildfire prevention, environmental protection, community collaboration and regional safety initiatives.
Most importantly, Linda is deeply invested in Orinda and the people who call it home. She brings a rare combination of technical knowledge, executive and board experience, compassion and a collaborative spirit.
I urge my fellow District 4 residents to join me in voting for Linda Stevens this November and help keep our community, our residents and our children safe for generations to come.
– Steven Franklin | Orinda
Vote for Cohn
I am writing in support of Steve Cohn running for Moraga-Orinda Fire District (MOFD) District 3.
Steve has been an Orinda resident for 40+ years. His 50-year career in finance and project management, and graduate experience in wildfire and transportation planning, make him an ideal candidate for this important position. He has spent many years in steadfast pursuit of investment of MOFD reserves into proactively applying wildfire mitigation practices strongly backed by extensive research and application. The expected outcome of these practices will be more fire-safe communities across all MOFD districts, and better informed and accurate insurance risk modeling, reducing the number of households losing fire coverage.
I believe Steve will be a strong and committed presence on the MOFD board, and bring a needed level of fiscal expertise and technical acumen to this governing body. Please cast your vote on Nov. 3 for Steve Cohn, MOFD District 3.
– Susan Radke | Orinda
Vote for Donnelly
John Donnelly is an exceptional candidate to represent District 3 on the Moraga-Orinda Fire District (MOFD) Board.
With over 30 years serving in the U.S. Army Medical Corps, rising to the rank of general, he has worked around the world coordinating emergency services. He understands budgets, working with multiple agencies and the importance of planning. He will continue to support grants that will support implementing Zone Zero changes, wildfire mitigation, while keeping MOFD appropriately funded. He is dedicated to community service.
I hope you will join me in voting for John Donnelly to represent District 3.
– Tandra Ericson | Orinda
Vote for Cohn
I strongly endorse Steve Cohn for Director, Division 3 of MOFD (Moraga-Orinda Fire District). I have known Steve for many years and have seen firsthand how seriously he takes the safety and future of Orinda. Steve brings integrity, independence, persistence and the courage to take unpopular positions when the facts support them.
In 2020, he warned Orindans that Measure R was committing too little of its revenue to wildfire prevention. Subsequent City reports supported that concern by calling for more Measure R funds to support wildfire-risk reduction and emergency preparedness. Steve saw the problem early, spoke up when it was highly unpopular to do so, and got it right.
Steve wants MOFD to take a stronger role in wildfire-risk modeling, fuel mitigation and coordinated evacuation planning across Orinda and Moraga. He also believes the district should preserve its strong emergency medical response while using more of its substantial reserves for wildfire prevention.
Steve is an engineer by background and has decades of experience in financial analysis. He digs into budgets, plans and assumptions rather than accepting them at face value. He asks hard questions and keeps pushing when he believes public safety or infrastructure deserves greater attention. I have watched Steve put enormous time, thought and energy into making Orinda safer. He cares deeply about this community and approaches public issues with independence, preparation and integrity.
For Orindans concerned about losing fire insurance and protecting public safety, Steve’s relentless focus on reducing wildfire risk deserves their support.
– Chuck Brotman | Orinda
Vote for Cohn
I am writing to express my strong support for Steve Cohn’s candidacy for the Moraga-Orinda Fire District (MOFD) board. I have full confidence in his ability to effectively represent Orinda in this critical role and to ensure our city’s tax contributions are well-managed for the benefit of both Orinda and the broader Lamorinda region.
– Thomas Troch | Orinda
Vote for Cohn
Steve Cohn is a uniquely qualified candidate for the (Moraga-Orinda Fire District) MOFD board, possessing a rare combination of financial acumen, expertise in fire prevention and evacuation strategy, and broad knowledge of local government operations. Steve’s deep technical experience in large-scale quantitative analysis, regional infrastructure and geography, complex computer modeling, and fire safety, and his long-demonstrated ability to galvanize large segments of the local population and develop workable, economical solutions, makes Steve a truly superb choice for the MOFD board.
– Joel Libove | Orinda
Vote for Cohn
Moraga-Orinda Fire District (MOFD) elections are important and one candidate from Orinda for District 3 stands out. Steve Cohn is exceptionally qualified for the position and he deserves to be elected.
I have worked with Steve for close to two decades and observed his dedication, analytical capability and selfless commitment to making real improvements in our community. In particular, Steve has advocated and presented viable plans for realistic and effective solutions to our fire hazard risks and MOFD budgetary issues. There is no doubt in my mind that Steve can accelerate the needed programs to maintain the excellence of the services provided by MOFD and advance the programs to mitigate risk of catastrophic fire damage to our community. Orinda needs dedicated and capable public servants like Steve.
– Bill Abriel | Orinda
Vote for Cohn
I have known Steve Cohn for 40 years and highly recommend that every Orindan vote for him for Moraga-Orinda Fire District (MOFD) Director. His knowledge of finance and wildfire prevention will serve us all.
There are five members on MOFD’s board of directors. Two are Orindans and two are Moragans. Steve is running for the fifth seat, representing both Orinda and Moraga. The person who holds this seat, in cooperation with Orinda’s other two representatives, ensures that Orinda’s tax dollars funding MOFD will be used appropriately. We formed MOFD 29 years ago to best use our tax dollars. It is crucial that an Orindan is elected to this seat to do just that.
– Bill Cosden | Orinda
Vote for Donnelly
It has been the honor and privilege of a lifetime to serve as your Moraga-Orinda Fire District (MOFD) Director for Division 3 since 2018. I was intending to run for reelection unless I was able to ensure there was a candidate who would represent the community with the same commitment, dedication and understanding of the issues that I have aspired to bring to this role every single day.
With that said, I wholeheartedly endorse John Donnelly to succeed me on the board. John is a retired Brigadier General having served in the medical corps, has a Ph.D. in immunology, worked in global vaccine programs, and has strong local volunteer experience with Rotary International. He possesses the integrity and leadership skills necessary to support the men and women of MOFD while acting in the best interests of our community. He will be an outstanding director.
I could not think of a better candidate to be your next MOFD Director for Division 3. I have full confidence that John will hit the ground running, rise up to the challenges and continue to build upon the progress we have made. With all my heart and hope, I strongly urge you to join me in electing John Donnelly to the MOFD Board of Directors. I promise you will not be disappointed.
With sincere gratitude and stay safe.
– Steve Danziger | Orinda
Vote for Cohn
I have known Steve Cohn for at least 16 years. Steve is committed to our community; he is a knowledgeable member of our community and energetic about improving our community. I fully endorse Steve for a position on the Moraga-Orinda Fire District (MOFD) Board of Directors.
In 2010, I was part of the team from Orinda that met with our partners in Moraga and MOFD to discuss service provided by the district. Steve provided me with great insight backed with facts surrounding MOFD, and since has kept me up to date. I know Steve has remained current in his understanding of MOFD’s service to the residents of Orinda and Moraga and of the district’s finances.
We would be well served by Steve as an addition to the MOFD Board.
– Tom McCormick | Former Mayor of Orinda
Vote for Donnelly
As insurance costs skyrocket and wildfire risk grows, Orinda and the Moraga-Orinda Fire District (MOFD) need to continue to collaborate and augment their mission in firefighting and fire mitigation. John’s demonstrated capability in volunteer community leadership roles in Orinda has produced remarkable, creative results with limited resources. His vision for MOFD is to maintain its firefighting capabilities while ensuring it helps to create a reduced fire risk environment that improves our insurance rating profile.
John has demonstrated a blend of financial and operational discipline with collaborative, respectful problem analysis and solving. John brings an impressive array of pertinent skills: Immunology Ph.D. with a focus on identifying communicating hazards and reducing risk; healthcare industry executive, for traumatic EMT services, leading technical teams in complex, budget-constrained environments; and Brigadier General with the planning and leadership skills to motivate people, build cohesion and deliver results under very high pressure civil disasters.
All who work with John know that he is not only capable – he is committed. He listens, he learns and he acts. He understands that effective wildfire fighting and mitigation depends on trust between the district and the community, and he has a track record of showing up, engaging respectfully and getting things done. His leadership style aligns with the values MOFD needs: steady, inclusive, accountable, fiscal management and service focus.
Thank you for your vote for John Donnelly, District 3 MOFD.
– Peter Heckathorn | Orinda
County Board of Education
Vote for West
Pamela brings a strong commitment to students, families and quality public education. Her experience, thoughtful leadership and dedication to ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed make her an excellent choice for the board.
Our schools need leaders who listen, collaborate and put students first. I believe Pamela West will bring exactly that kind of leadership to the County Board of Education. I encourage voters to support Pamela West for County Board of Education. She will get the job done.
– Bekah and James Evans | Orinda
Vote for West
I was fortunate enough to serve on the Orinda Union District board of trustees with Pam West. Pam stood out as a thoroughly prepared board member who ALWAYS put the interests of children first.
Pam worked closely with teachers, site administrators and district administration in support of their efforts to improve educational outcomes. I wholeheartedly endorse Pam West for our county board of education, as we need a trustee that will work with all stakeholders in putting the needs of our students first.
– Matt Moran | Orinda
Vote for West
As former mayor the City of Orinda, a retired and former Orinda Union School District Trustee, I strongly endorse Pam West for the County Board of Education, area 2.
Having worked alongside Pam for many years, I have seen her thoughtful leadership in action. As a former Orinda Union School District trustee, long-time county resident, community volunteer and small business owner, Pam brings a rare combination of intelligence, hands-on experience and fiscal discipline. She does the hard work – diligently studying the facts, listening to all stakeholders and bringing people together to solve complex problems.
Our students, schools and taxpayers deserve Pam West’s proven commitment to student success and responsible governance.
– Sue Severson | Orinda
Vote for West
As elementary school parents, we know how important it is to have strong, caring leadership to guide our schools. We want our children to feel safe, supported and inspired to learn every day. That’s why we’re supporting Pam West for the County Board of Education.
Pam understands that a strong education begins with listening to families, supporting teachers and always putting students first. We need leaders who understand the importance of giving every child the opportunity to succeed. We believe Pam will bring a caring and common-sense voice to the County Board of Education.
For our children and for the future of our schools, we encourage our fellow parents to vote for Pam West.
– Kellyn and Glen Gagon | Orinda
Measure W (AUHSD parcel tax)
Vote Yes on Measure W
As a 30-year resident and local business owner, I’ve spent years watching how this community thrives.
One thing is clear, our schools and our local economy are deeply connected. Families move to Orinda for our schools. That’s not a guess, it’s something I hear from customers every week. They come here because Miramonte and its sister schools offer something exceptional, and that reputation brings people through my doors too. Strong schools bring families who shop locally, eat at our restaurants and put down roots that last for decades.
When our schools struggle, that ripple effect touches all of us, whether or not we have kids enrolled. That’s why the cuts already underway concern me. Our high schools have lost librarians, counselors and course offerings, not because the district is spending carelessly, but because state funding doesn’t come close to covering what it costs to run a school well. In fact, our district spends less per student than 72% of high school districts in our state.
Measure W is how our community closes the gap. It’s a modest investment of $168 a year for eight years. All funds staying local, there are mandatory independent audits and a full exemption for seniors. Small businesses like mine thrive because this is a place families want to call home. Protecting our schools means protecting that.
Please join me in voting yes on Measure W, because strong schools are good for business.
– Pat Rudebusch | Orinda
Vote Yes on Measure W
I’ve lived in Orinda for 19 years, and in that time I’ve watched my grandchildren come up through our schools – a seventh grader at Orinda Intermediate and a ninth grader at Miramonte. Watching them, I’ve seen what a well-funded high school can do: small classes where teachers know their students by name, counselors with time for real conversations about the future and courses that let kids discover what they love.
That’s because our community used to step up to make sure our schools had what they needed. But we haven’t had any new local funding for our high schools in 16 years, and they are suffering.
I want my grandchildren and all Miramonte students to have that same experience. Our high schools are already absorbing real cuts – fewer counselors, thinner library coverage, fewer courses – because state funding doesn’t cover what it takes to run an excellent school. This isn’t overspending. The district has already cut $4.2 million from its budget in the last two years. To keep our schools exceptional, we must fund them at the level they need. It’s a community deciding, once again, whether to invest in what it has always valued. I’ve watched Orinda make this choice before, and I believe we’ll make it again. Measure W is a modest ask: $168 a year, all funds staying local, mandatory audits and a full exemption for seniors.
Please join me in voting yes on Measure W.
– Susan Banker | Orinda
Vote Yes on Measure W
I am voting yes on Measure W, the Acalanes Union High School District parcel tax. I urge you to vote yes as well.
Some of you may recall that I was a strong opponent of the prior parcel tax proposal, Measure T. I have changed my position because since that time, the district has made major cuts to its budget. I do not believe that any more cuts can reasonably be made and I believe that further cuts will only harm the students. Notably, the opponents of Measure W have not specified any specific cut that they desire.
– Nick Waranoff | Orinda
Vote for Coleman
I urge all to vote for Edda Collins Coleman on Nov. 3. I’m confident she’ll make a positive impact for our schools and work toward the betterment of our community. Her dedicated leadership and tireless service merits another term as a trustee of the Orinda Union School District.
Join me in voting Edda for our schools.
– Sue Severson | Orinda
