Derry says goals for 2012 include local projects funding
BARSTOW • Barstow’s County Supervisor, Neil Derry, said his main effort this year is to get to know the new communities in his district, San Bernardino County 3rd District, which now includes Barstow.
“My number one goal is learning the new areas of my district, as I now serve the City of Barstow and Lucerne Valley,” Derry said.
Due to county redistricting, the City of Barstow was shifted to the 3rd District in October. The unincorporated communities surrounding the city remain in the 1st District.
Locally, Derry said he’s working to get construction started on the repair of Lenwood Road, part of which was destroyed early last year due to flooding. Derry said repairs on the road are still in the design phase but should begin this year.
Another project Derry has his hands on is working with former Barstow Mayor Lawrence Dale to provide training equipment for Barstow Community College’s technical training program. Derry is working to supply $10,000 to bring railroad equipment to Barstow from a recently closed Santa Fe rail yard in Oklahoma.
“Because railroad is large part of Barstow’s history, part of Barstow’s future and a major employer, I hope that (bringing the equipment here) will provide opportunities to youths to learn significant job skills with respect to the railroad industry,” Derry said.
Derry said he is also working to provide $15,000 of funding for the Barstow-area Boys and Girls Club of America.
“It’s tough times for non-profits, particularly those who serve our youth who desperately need after school activities,” Derry said.
As far as county initiatives, Derry has been working with county leaders to draft the county-wide vision plan and is spearheading a number of projects.
Derry plans to oppose state-imposed fire tax on unincorporated areas, he said, adding he might lead the county into a lawsuit the state.
In all, Derry said his goal for 2012 is to spend time in Barstow and the other communities he serves.
“I’m going to be engaged in the local issues, such as the water rates, which I think are abominable, or any other important issues with the community,” Derry said. “You’re going to see a lot of me.”
Derry is up for re-election this June facing opponent James Ramos, San Manuel tribe chairman. He was at one point also facing Paul Cook, assemblyman for California’s 64th District, but Cook said he is pulling out of that race to seek the Congressional 8th District seat.
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(760) 256-4123 or klucia@desertdispatch.com
