In this upcoming election for District 1 Supervisor, we find ourselves at a critical crossroads. We can choose between a seasoned public servant who knows what it takes to get the job done, or a candidate who offers little more than a familiar face and a vague promise to “listen.”

Helen Owen’s supporters point to her long tenure in the county and her local business ownership as qualifications. Yet, I can’t help but ask: Is that truly enough to serve as a county supervisor?

Supervising a county isn’t something you can learn on the job without serious consequences. Owen’s backers claim she will “listen to the people” — an admirable quality, but certainly not the sole requirement for a role that involves managing the county budget, improving public safety, making complex land use decisions and selecting department heads. This isn’t about having a chat over coffee; it's about having the expertise to act decisively on issues that affect all of us.

Owen’s lack of real experience in this realm or applicable experiences makes it hard to imagine her handling the fast-paced demands of the office. In fact, for her, this job would likely be more about learning than leading, and while she’s busy learning, Lake County would suffer the delays. What’s the plan while she’s catching up? Who will make the tough calls when she doesn’t even know what questions to ask?

One of her supporters recently wrote, “We need her especially in this day when our values are being attacked.” But whose values? “Values” has become a convenient dog whistle, a stand-in for nebulous ideals that mean one thing to one group and something entirely different to another. If Owen's supporters can't articulate a real plan for the county, is this the best they can offer? We need a leader with more than platitudes.

On the other hand, John Hess is a candidate who not only talks the talk but has walked the walk. With a political science degree, experience in Washington, D.C. working on military legislation, and nearly a decade of service on Lake County’s Planning Commission, Hess knows the ins and outs of this job. He’s been working on these issues — budgeting, fire safety, housing, and more — since 2016. This is not someone who needs time to catch up; he’s already running full steam ahead.

John Hess chose Lake County as his home, not because he grew up here, but because he saw the potential and immediately rolled up his sleeves to make a difference. He didn’t need to wait for an election to start serving his community; he’s been doing it for years. He understands that the role of a supervisor is about accomplishing big goals, not learning how to keep up. His qualifications make him not just the better choice, but the only choice if we’re serious about moving Lake County forward.

The decision for District 1 supervisor is clear. We don’t need someone who will be learning on the job while Lake County’s challenges pile up. This isn't a popularity contest or a partisan decision. We need someone with real experience, vision, and a proven track record of getting things done. That person is John Hess.

Ryan Kasmier lives in Hidden Valley Lake, California.