LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Outgoing District 3 Supervisor Jim Steele said he has decided to endorse EJ Crandell for the seat he will vacate at the end of the year.

Steele explained that the job is bigger than most realize. He said it takes a serious commitment to serve the very disparate District 3 communities – five on the Highway 20 corridor and three in more remote areas of the district.

“It’s important to know the district well – it’s people, the issues and the geography,” Steele said.

Steele also noted that the Northshore District is unique among all the county districts. “We need a leader whose roots run deep in our communities – as is the case with EJ. As an experienced leader and accomplished businessman he also brings economic prowess and business acumen to help solve the problems of our impoverished but hopeful district 3 communities. It’s an added benefit that he grew up in the communities he will serve.”

Steele added, “EJ has served his country with honor, his county with distinction and his district with pride, volunteering in schools and giving generously to non-profits, for the good of all. His commitment is steeped in the will to do right by humanity. Near and dear to my heart, I know he will be a stalwart defender of our natural resources, especially Clear Lake, and he will work hard to ensure a bright future for us and the generations to come.”

“I want to thank Supervisor Steele for his support and confidence and also for his service. It is a great honor to walk in the path of a leader,” said Crandell.

Crandell lives in Lucerne. He is currently chair of the Lake County Planning Commission, chair of the Business Council of the Robinson Band of Pomo Indians and Executive Chair of CTTP, an organization providing financial, educational and health assistance for needy families at 16 California sites.

He can be reached at 707-485-4157.