Each member can vote for the Executive Committee leaders for the San Francisco Bay Chapter and the Executive Committee for their local group (see map for approximate group boundaries or call the chapter office at 510-848-0800 if you're not sure what group you're part of).
Note that the membership dates listed for each candidate are those listed in the Club membership database, but may not be completely accurate, especially for earlier time periods.
For instructions on casting your ballot and number of open seats, return to the Chapter election homepage.
Click the following options to be brought to the relevant candidate statements:
Chapter
Delta Group
Marin Group
Mount Diablo Group
Northern Alameda County Group
San Francisco Group
Southern Alameda County Group
Tri-Valley Group
West Contra Costa County Group
**Candidate statements within each section are listed in alphabetical order by last name. Statements appear as written by candidates.**
Chapter Executive Committee
There are nine candidates. You may vote for five or fewer.
John Bauters
Residence: Emeryville
Occupation: Non-Profit Director
Sierra Club member since: 2016
Contact: jbauters@gmail.com
Activities:
- Chair, Sierra Club San Francisco Bay Chapter
- NAC Group Member
- SF Bay Chapter Political Committee Member
Statement: I am the current chair of the SF Bay Chapter of the Sierra Club. I was the club’s inaugural recipient of the David McCoard Visionary Award in 2022 for my intersectional work on social and environmental justice, and I lead with those values.
I am a conservationist. I annually complete a 200 to 400-mile solo wilderness hike somewhere in the United States. This year I am hiking the entirety of the John Muir Trail. Protecting our planet’s natural resources from the current federal administration is my top priority as a club member. I strongly support creating safe and educational spaces for children to explore and engage nature as an important part of building a conservation movement that endures.
I served as council member and Mayor in Emeryville between 2016 and 2024, where I passed ordinances on lead remediation, bird safe building design, building electrification, and cross-laminated timber construction. I shepherded the city’s urban tree planting program, banned pesticides that are harmful to pollinators, and built out a large part of the city’s active transportation plan to make walking and biking safe for all ages and abilities.
I represented Alameda County on the Bay Area Air District for six years where I led the fight to significantly reduce the harmful PM emissions from fluidized catalytic cracking units at Bay Area refineries, and successfully championed regulations that will ensure future Bay Area water heaters and furnaces meet zero NOx emissions standards.
I hope to earn your vote. Thank you.
Chava Bear
Residence: San Francisco
Occupation: Transportation Planner
Sierra Club Member since: 2011
Contact: ckronenberg@gmail.com
Activities:
- Sierra Club SF Bay Chapter Executive Committee, 2024- present
- Sierra Club SF Political Committee Alternate, 2023- present
Statement: I’m passionate about the everyday choices we can make to reduce our carbon footprint and protect our children from the impacts of climate change. For years, I’ve worked to expand safe, reliable, and sustainable transportation options in San Francisco—because reducing car dependence is essential to building a livable, climate-resilient future.
I’ve served on the Sierra Club Chapter Executive Committee for the past two years, where I’ve focused on strengthening governance and transparency to better serve our members. I also represent San Francisco as an alternate on the Political Committee, helping shape endorsements and advocacy that reflect our environmental values.
I’m running for re-election to continue amplifying the voices of sustainable transportation advocates and parents, and to connect local climate action to regional, state, and national leadership. The Executive Committee needs to continue to be committed to advocating for and shaping a future with sustainable transit, equitable land use, and bold climate policies and building the leaders to advance those goals.
My connection to the Sierra Club began before I became a parent, through Outings led by inspiring local volunteers who introduced me to California’s wild beauty and the Club’s mission. After several unforgettable trips into the Sierras, I became a lifetime member in 2011, committed to giving back to the organization that shaped my environmental values.
It would be an honor to continue serving the Club and its members. Thank you for your support and your vote.
Kate Blumberg
Residence: San Francisco
Occupation: Not submitted
Sierra Club member since: 2022
Contact: kate@acmetron.com
Activities: Not submitted
Statement: My name is Kate Blumberg. I’ve been a member of the Sierra Club continuously since 2022 but off and on for several years before that. I’ve been a resident of San Francisco since 2001. I’m one of the founders of the International Council on Clean Transportation, a nonprofit that works to reduce pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions from all forms of transportation. After almost 20 years of that work, I stepped aside a few years ago to focus on the local, especially what I could do to make my city and my neighborhood safer and more livable for everyone.
Since then I’ve been working with the Livable Streets Committee of my neighborhood associations to make area streets safer, especially for bikes and pedestrians, and am spearheading Safer Illinois. Last year, I was the lead investigator for Failed Vision: Revamping the Roadmap to Safer Streets, as a member of the 2024-2025 SF Civil Grand Jury. I am a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for a foster youth and also volunteer in the public schools. I try hard to get out to volunteer days with the Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) doing invasive species remediation. I love backpacking and hiking. And, after being kinda lonely on my first backpacking solo, I’m eager to join some Sierra Club trips on the lookout for future backpacking buddies.
Thanks for your consideration.
Kate@acmetron.com
Mark van Landuyt
Residence: Danville
Occupation: Executive Producer, Williamson Productions LLC
Sierra Club member since: 2019
Contact: hepjazz@yahoo.com
Activities:
- Chapter Political Committee
- Chapter Executive Committee
- Chair of Mount Diablo Group
- Chair of Green New Deal Committee
Statement: In this era of Trump, the Sierra Club must stand as the bulwark against efforts to commodify everything of human value.
Sierra Club values of environmental protection, wildlife conservation, and grassroots activism are more needed than ever.
You have my promise to protect those values on the SF Bay Chapter Executive Committee.
My objectives are increasing climate literacy outreach, youth involvement, and preservation of green space.
As an organization we must be more bold, more resolute, more innovative.
I am dedicated to the fight for a healthier equitable clean-energy future for all living beings.
This moment requires all of our involvement.
For Chapter ExCom, I encourage all members to vote for venerable Sierra Club stalwarts Patricia Piras, Paul Seger, and Matt Morrison. They will faithfully represent Sierra Club values on the Chapter Executive Committee.
Thank you for your consideration and for your activism.
You can contact me at hepjazz@yahoo.com.
Matt Morrison
Residence: Pleasonton
Occupation: Attorney
Sierra Club member since: 2002
Contact: mattmorrisonus@gmail.com
Activities:
Not submitted
Statement: I am an attorney from Pleasanton and a Sierra Club member since 2002. I am most proud of my work as our Chapter’s Compliance Officer for 6-years from 2014 to 2020. A Compliance Officer helps ensure that Club political decisions are made solely in accord with Club policies and the Sierra Club mission. In part this is done by determining whether volunteer leaders have allegiances with other political organizations. And if they do, whether they are able to set aside those allegiances to make decisions solely in the interest of the Sierra Club. I forged a solid working relationship with both the Club’s State and National Compliance staff. In 2024 our then-Chapter Chair asked me to return as Compliance Officer. Since my departure, our Chapter “shared” a Compliance Officer with a different Chapter. That Compliance Officer resigned because he was unable to manage our Chapter leader’s disclosures from a distance. As Compliance Officer in 2024 I persevered with integrity, openness, and respect for our volunteer leaders. However, in May 2025, under new Chapter leadership, against the advice of State Compliance, decided again to engage sharing a Compliance Officer with another Chapter. The vague reason was “problems” in 2024. Executive Committee votes since the 2024 election often divide into predictable camps where consensus has been replaced by raw voting power. I miss the shared optimism and moral compass that drove our deliberations. We’ve all seen institutions weaponized for partisan advantage. I believe our Club is better and ask for your vote.
Patrisha (Pat) Piras
Residence: San Lorenzo
Occupation: Retired, Former Public Transit/Paratransit Consultant
Sierra Club member since: 1991, Life Member
Contact: liarslose13@gmail.com
Activities:
- Active member, Southern Alameda County (SAC) Group, 2004 to present
- SAC Group Executive Committee member (2009 – 2014, 2025)
- SAC Alternate rep to Chapter ExCom (current)
- Member of Chapter Transportation & Compact Growth Committee (2004 to February 2025)
- Member of Chapter Conservation Committee (Vice-Chair, 2007-2011)
- Founder and Former Co-Chair of Environmental Justice Subcommittee
- Former member of Climate Literacy Subcommittee
- Chapter Outreach Committee (2010-2012)
- Chapter Political Committee (2009-2016)
- Member, State Political Committee (2006 to present)
- Member, Northern California Candidate Review Committee (2016 to present)
- Member, Local Ballot Measure Review Committee (2018 to present)
- Delegate to California/Nevada Regional Conservation Committee (CNRCC, 2005-2016), now California Conservation
- Committee (CCC, 2020 to present)
- Member, CCC Committee on Transportation & Sustainable Communities (CTSC, 2010 to present)
- Sierra Club representative to Alameda County Transportation Commission’s Independent Watchdog Committee (2015 to June 2025)
- Member, National Grassroots Network Climate Adaptation & Restoration Team (2023-present)
Statement: Last year, I began my Candidate Statement for the Southern Alameda County Group ExCom, cautioning
“At the risk of sounding melodramatic, our Chapter faces an existential crisis. There is currently some activism to try to have the Sierra Club become a subsidiary of other advocacy interests. Please be very careful in your voting, especially for Chapter Executive Committee members.”
This concern is more valid than ever. This election will decide whether our Chapter stays true to traditional Sierra Club values and priorities, while embracing our progressive future, or gets shifted to other business.
You can have five votes for the Chapter ExCom, but please only vote for four — Matt Morrison, Patrisha (Pat) Piras, Paul Seger, and Mark Van Landuyt.
I’ve been active in local, Chapter, and State activities for the Club regarding transportation, environmental justice, climate literacy, and politics. I’ve tried to increase Youth involvement, since we are fighting for their future, but the Chapter needs more follow-through.
I bring energy, thoughtfulness, and strong analytical skills to everything I do, and always push for integrity among those in leadership positions. I am committed to Sierra Club principles for both the natural and human environments. Our colleagues’ respect is reflected in the State-level positions to which I have been appointed.
The Chapter ExCom decides how resources and energy are dedicated to everything from Outings to Political Endorsements, so the outcomes affect all Members, plus our environment.
If you have any questions, please contact me at liarslose13@gmail.com. Thank you for your consideration.
Brian Quan
Residence: San Francisco
Occupation: Insurance Agent
Sierra Club member since: 2022
Contact: brian.r.quan@gmail.com
Activities:
- Sierra Club San Francisco Chapter Executive Committee 2024- 2025
- Sierra Club SF Group Events Committee 2024-2025
- Sierra Club SF Group Housing Committee 2023
Statement: As a San Francisco native, I have been fortunate to experience many aspects of our natural environment and recognize the Club's conservation efforts in allowing me this privilege. I have also has seen how the ideas championed and grown here in the Bay Area can influence changes at the State, National, and International level. This perspective is what has driven me to get more involved with the local leadership of the Sierra Club as we seek ways to help drive the environmental movement forward. The last two years on the Chapter Executive Committee have deepen my insights into the evolving nature of new members entering the environmental advocacy space and what we can continue to do to encourage more Sierra Club members to amplify our voices at all levels of policy making.
I believe there are more shared values that can be uncovered with other community groups and stakeholders within our Chapter and the untapped potential that can be activated when we introduce the importance of the natural environment to those that may not get the chance to experience it easily or often if at all. Building a coalition along a shared vision and value can grow the robustness of a diverse and inclusive membership rather than focusing on issues that can drive an oppositional paradigm.I hope to continue this mission of outreach, growth, and coalition building with groups that may not see Climate Change as dire of a focus and priority like many of us.
Paul Seger
Residence: Oakley
Occupation: Teacher & Director, Diablo Water District
Sierra Club member since: 2017
Contact: psseger65@gmail.com
Activities:
I’ve led Sierra Club committees on energy, climate, water, and shoreline resilience. I’ve fought fossil fuel plants, diesel mega-warehouses, and development projects that put profits before the environment. I’ve defended urban creeks, advanced climate policies, and helped environmental leaders win office. As a Director at Diablo Water District, I’ve pushed transparency, diversity, equity, inclusion, sustainability and resilience, helping make it one of California’s greenest water agencies.
Statement: I’m a teacher, mountain biker, and lifelong advocate for climate and justice. I believe in protecting nature and inspiring the next generation through education, outdoor programs, and youth leadership. I care deeply about keeping our Bay, Delta and trails safe and sane for all public to use — and restoring them to natural beauty for all to enjoy. More beauty, more access, and more love for the places we share.
Within the Sierra Club and as a public servant, I have consistently fought for climate resilience, clean energy, and responsible development. That has meant standing up to polluting industries, opposing mega-warehouse projects, and defending California’s strongest environmental law, CEQA.
I build coalitions that welcome youth, educators, and diverse communities. I work with local elected leaders to move them toward wiser, sustainable solutions.
This election is about strengthening Sierra Club leadership. You can have five votes for Chapter ExCom, but please only vote for four: Matt Morrison, Patrisha (Pat) Piras, Paul Seger, and Mark Van Landuyt.
Prodan Statev
Residence: San Francisco
Occupation: Sales Engineer
Sierra Club member since: 2025
Contact: pstatev94@gmail.com
Activities: Urbanist and civic engagement through YIMBY and non-profit board YBCG
Statement: As a San Francisco resident and tech leader, I believe the Bay Area's environmental future depends on embracing abundance: clean energy, sustainable housing, and innovative solutions to climate change.
The climate crisis demands we move beyond scarcity mindsets. We need dense, transit-oriented development that reduces sprawl into wildlands. We need abundant clean energy from nuclear, renewables, and emerging technologies. We need to harness Silicon Valley's innovation ecosystem for carbon capture and climate adaptation.
My work with SF YIMBY and the Yerba Buena Conservancy has shown me that environmental protection and urban growth aren't opposing forces, they're complementary strategies. Every home we build near transit is a victory for both housing affordability and carbon reduction. Every acre we develop efficiently in cities is wilderness preserved elsewhere.
I bring experience leading Snowflake's startup program, serving on nonprofit boards, and organizing grassroots advocacy. I've written voter guides analyzing local environmental policies and mobilized communities around sustainable urban development.
The Sierra Club has a proud history of protecting wild places. Today's challenge is ensuring those places survive climate change while accommodating California's growing population sustainably. This requires embracing technological solutions, supporting dense urban
development, and advancing evidence-based environmental policy.
I'm committed to bringing fresh perspectives while respecting the Club's conservation legacy. Together, we can build an environmental movement that says "yes" to the solutions our planet
urgently needs - from urban density to clean energy abundance to technological innovation.
Delta Group
There are no candidates.
Marin Group
There are five candidates. You may vote for five or fewer.
Jack Noble
Residence: Mill Valley
Occupation: Not submitted
Sierra Club member since: 2025
Contact: jdnoble91@gmail.com
Activities: Not submitted
Statement: My name is Jack Noble and I live in my hometown of Mill Valley, California. I’ve enjoyed the outdoors throughout my life—backpacking, fishing, exploring. I’ve learned that the appreciation of, and intimacy with, our remarkable nature is essential to our health, wellbeing, and way of life. Also essential is the vibrance of our towns and cities, where people of various incomes live and age in the communities in which they work and love. I believe these things, done right, needn’t be mutually exclusive; in fact, they are complementary. I’m dedicated to collaborating with institutional and community partners, ensuring that we advance a county housing strategy which facilitates the protection and cultivation of our ecologies, as well as to preserve and
responsibly develop the affordable housing stock required to ensure equitable access for local retirees and workers.
After graduating from King’s College London with a degree in International Development, I joined the Sierra Club in 2025. I work at the Marin Environmental Housing Collaborative and as a consultant for Front Porch Community Services. I serve on the board of the Mt. Tam Community Land Trust, working to preserve affordable housing in Southern Marin.
In my current ExCom role, I have worked to provide critical oversight on Marin’s development needs and to advocate for a livable, sustainable, inclusive future for our county. Reelection would allow me to continue serving as an attentive, local voice for both environmental protection and community needs. I would be honored to earn your support.
Matt Rossiter
Residence: Not submitted
Occupation: Attorney
Sierra Club member since: Not submitted
Contact: mross3213@yahoo.com
Activities: Not submitted
Statement: As a life-long outdoor enthusiast and a practicing attorney, I identify strongly with the Sierra Club's mission "to explore, enjoy, and protect the wild places of the earth." I am fortunate to live in Marin County, amidst wild places and tremendous natural beauty. And I recognize that to protect these natural resources -- and help address climate change and broader environmental challenges -- we need to take a thoughtful and equitable approach to meeting the transportation and housing needs of our region.
The shortage and high cost of housing is one of the most urgent environmental, economic and equity issues facing our region. I believe the Sierra Club has an important role to play in evaluating policies and proposed solutions, and advocating for a balanced approach to meeting the significant housing needs in our communities while also protecting our environmental resources and open spaces.
On a personal level, as an avid cyclist (on both roads and trails) and a frequent bicycle commuter, I would like to see the Sierra Club support policies that improve bicycle safety, reduce our dependence on cars, and expand bike access to our trails and open spaces.
As a member of the Marin Group Executive Committee, I will do my best to bring my values to bear, to keep an open mind and an open heart, and to advance the Sierra Club's mission and values, for the benefit of all of us here in Marin County, and all of us in this broader world we share.
Sam Ruben
Residence: Sausalito
Occupation: Co-Founder/CBDO @ HyWatts
Sierra Club member since: Renewed in 2023
Contact: sam.ruben@gmail.com
Activities:
- Sierra Club Marin Group Executive Committee Member
- Sierra Club SF Bay Chapter Political Committee Vice-Chair for Marin County
- MarinCAN Board Member
- Climatebase Fellow
- WEF G20 Sustainability Taskforce Core Member
- Build It Green California Housing System Innovator’s Network Steering Committee
- Sustainability Advisor & Angel Investor in a number of Climate Tech companies
Statement: The IPCC has made it clear that we have maybe 10 years to essentially change everything if we want a world where humanity and other life can thrive. This is a critical juncture in history, the actions and decisions we make now will determine the world we leave to future generations. In service of this, I have dedicated my life to equitably responding to the climate crisis.
I am a Co-Founder at HyWatts, where we are deploying a Power-Plant-in-a-Box to provide clean, reliable energy for EV Charging, Residential Communities, and other critical infrastructure limited by a lack of capacity in the grid. I have crafted groundbreaking California laws to reduce embodied carbon in the built environment (AB 2446 & AB 43) and helped craft model embodied carbon policies with the WEF G20 Sustainability Taskforce. I also serve as a Board Member of MarinCAN, formerly Drawdown Marin, which serves as a hub for climate action to amplify the work of organizations across the county, among other related activities.
I am running because I believe deeply in the Sierra Club’s work and its role in bringing about a more resilient/regenerative world that recognizes the role that we as humans play in the ecosystem and the potential to change the way we build, the way we travel, and the way we live via innovation to bring the system back into balance so that life may thrive into the future.
Please contact me at sam.ruben@gmail.com with any questions. I am grateful for your consideration.
Jennifer Silva
Residence: Sausalito
Occupation: Executive Director, Marin Environmental Housing Collaborative
Sierra Club member since: 2023
Contact: jrskis@gmail.com
Activities:
- Board member, Kids Cooking for Life
- Board member, Teaching Lab
Statement: I am excited to run for re-election for the Executive Committee of the Marin Group. The beauty and extensive outdoor space drew me to Marin County ten years ago. I am an avid hiker and sometimes trail runner. The ability to spend time in the natural world is good for both body and soul.
We face serious environmental challenges. As a Sausalito resident, I directly experience the impact of rising sea levels and flooded, unpassable streets. Marin has a deep history of environmental activism, and we need to build on this legacy to address these challenges. We need to preserve what we have and ensure that all residents have access to our natural environment. We must promote a healthy environment for all, including emissions, particle pollution and noise pollution. And we need to address global warming and sea level rise.
I have deep experience in non-profit organizational governance. As a member of the Marin Group Executive Committee, I have contributed in the following ways:
Founded and led the Marin Group Compact Growth Subcommittee.
Served as the alternative of the Political Committee. I was deeply involved in the endorsement process. Our Group was recognized by the chapter for our thorough and fair process.
Served on the SF Bay Chapter Transportation and Compact Growth Committee, the California Statewide Committee on Transportation and Sustainable Communities and the California Subcommittee on Housing
Thomas Tunny
Residence: Fairfax
Occupation: Attorney
Sierra Club member since: 2023
Contact: ttunny@reubenlaw.com
Activities:
- Former Chair, San Anselmo Planning Commission
- Board Member, San Rafael Canal Alliance
- member, Urban Land Institute
- member San Francisco Planning and Urban Research
- former aide to U.S. Rep. Anna Eshoo for environmental issues
- former canvasser and political organizer, California League of Conservation Voters
Statement: I have devoted my career to urban planning, with the belief that well-planned communities are the key to our planet’s long-term global and local health. Keeping our wildlands wild, while at the same time providing adequate housing, jobs, transportation, schools, and parks with thoughtful architectural and urban design will create healthy and sustaining communities. One of the foundations of the Sierra Club’s mission is “[t]o educate and enlist humanity to protect and restore the quality of the natural and human environment; and to use all lawful means to carry out these objectives.” I feel my urban planning experience and priorities fit seamlessly with the Sierra Club’s mission. It is my intention to harness all of the Sierra Club’s effectiveness to create healthy communities and vibrant open spaces and natural resources.
Mount Diablo Group
There are two candidates. You may vote for two or fewer.
Beth Bittle
Residence: Lafayette
Occupation: Bicycle Educator and Adventure tour guide
Sierra Club member since: 2014
Contact: callingu2@gmail.com
Activities:
- Rainbow Sierrans Outings Leader 2014 - present
- National Sierra Club Outings Leader 2015 - present
- Chair - Rainbow Sierrans Governing Committee 2015 - 2018, 2019-2022, 2024-present
- Nominations and Elections Committee 2018-2020, 2021-2022
- Michener Award for outings leadership 2018
Statement: I am an avid outdoors person. I love to spend as much of my time as possible camping, hiking, kayaking or cycling. If elected, I hope to bring new people into the Sierra Club by promoting access and inclusion, as well as helping young people and families connect to the Sierra Club. In addition, I will advocate for the preservation of parks and open spaces, protection of habitat and wildlife in the Mt. Diablo region, as well as the expansion of safer cycling routes.
Mark van Landuyt
Residence: Danville
Occupation: Executive Producer, Williamson Productions LLC
Sierra Club member since: 2019
Contact: hepjazz@yahoo.com
Activities:
- Chapter Political Committee
- Chapter Executive Committee
- Chair of Mount Diablo Group
- Chair of Green New Deal Committee
Statement: This historical moment requires all of our involvement.
We have entered a very dangerous era of environmental roll backs.
Locally, we must stand up to the Trump administration’s renewed plans to open up oil drilling in Mount Diablo State Park and Butano State Park.
Nationally, we must oppose Trump’s EPA mission to end greenhouse gas regulation.
For all those who care about our green spaces and health, now is the time to come together.
Mount Diablo Group is building a Contra Costa County that has a healthier equitable clean-energy future for all living beings.
It would be a honor to serve as Group chair for another term. For all residents in the Mount Diablo area, you are cordially invited to join our meetings and actives.
The future needs you.
This is a crucial moment for our Nation.
This is a pivotal moment for our Planet.
This is a Defining moment for our species.
Thank you all.
You can contact me at hepjazz@yahoo.com.
Northern Alameda County Group
There are six candidates. You may vote for up six or fewer. There are 5 full-term seats, and 1 half-term seat (one year) due to a vacancy. The sixth highest vote-getter will fill the half-term seat.
Kera Binns
Residence: Not submitted
Occupation: Not submitted
Sierra Club member since: 2024
Contact: KeraBBinns@gmail.com
Activities: Not submitted
Statement: I’m running for the Executive Committee of the Sierra Club to help strengthen our local impact through community-driven climate action, inclusive engagement, and strategic partnerships. As a member of the Berkeley Environment & Climate Commission and lead organizer for the city’s 2025 Sun Day event, I bring hands-on experience mobilizing neighbors, collaborating with city leaders, and making clean energy adoption accessible and enjoyable.
I officially joined the Sierra Club in December 2024 and am an active member of the SF Bay Area Chapter. My deep commitment to environmental advocacy also extends to my support for Save the Redwoods League and the East Bay Regional and California State Parks systems. Through my role on Berkeley’s Environment & Climate Commission, I contribute to shaping local climate policies and programs, and have organized efforts supporting sustainable housing, active transportation, and community resilience.
With over 15 years of leadership experience in strategy, communications, and coalition-building across public, private, and nonprofit sectors, I excel at aligning diverse stakeholders around shared goals, facilitating inclusive conversations, and turning ideas into action. I’m excited to bring these skills to the Sierra Club to help advance our shared environmental goals and continue building a sustainable, equitable future for all.
Jacob Dadmun
Residence: Berkeley
Occupation: Wildfire Fuels Reduction Specialist
Sierra Club member since: 2025
Contact: jacob.dadmun@gmail.com
Activities:
- Northern Alameda County Group Member
- Volunteer, Yes on FF Campaign (2024)
- East Bay for Everyone, Member
- Volunteer Prescribed Fire Practitioner
Statement: As a lifelong environmentalist and climate resilience professional, I know the urgency of the climate crisis and the critical actions we can take to reduce emissions and protect the Bay Area’s biodiversity. While the challenges are severe, they are solvable if we act quickly.
I’ve seen climate impacts firsthand while researching fire resilience after the Dixie fire, California’s largest single ignition wildfire. The biggest difference between forests that burned severely and those that survived was whether proactive measures like fuels reduction had been implemented. This experience inspired my career in wildfire prevention, reducing invasive and hazardous fuels, and volunteering as a prescribed fire practitioner to reintroduce good fire to fire-adapted ecosystems.
These experiences have taught me that the antidote to despair is action. And while many of us have felt despair recently, we also feel a call to act decisively for our climate, neighbors, and future. The stakes have never been higher, and in order to meet this moment we have to take bold swings and embrace positive change. As a member of the Executive Committee, I will prioritize:
Building more homes in high-resource neighborhoods near jobs, schools, and transit. Research shows this is the most effective to cut emissions at the local level.
Making communities safer from wildfire through fuels reduction, evacuation safety, and defensible space while stopping sprawl.
Cutting carbon emissions from cars by improving public transit and street safety.
Engaging more young people like me in the Sierra Club to grow the next generation of environmental leaders.
Maxwell Davis
Residence: Oakland
Occupation: Mechanical Engineer
Sierra Club member since: 2021
Contact: maxwell.w.davis@gmail.com
Activities:
- Chair, Northern Alameda County Executive Committee
- SF Bay Chapter Transportation and Compact Growth Committee, Chair
- At-Large Member, SF Bay Chapter Executive Committee Member
- Co-Chair, Housing Subcommittee of the Sierra Club California Transportation and Sustainable Communities Committee
- Delegate to Council of Club Leaders from SF Bay Chapter
Statement: As a passionate advocate for livable, sustainable cities, I am seeking this position to champion the environmental causes that are critical to our region. When people have reliable, accessible transportation options, streets designed for walking and biking, and live near jobs and services, we can reduce car usage, improve air quality, and lower greenhouse gas emissions, creating more resilient and equitable communities.
As Chair of the Northern Alameda County Group over the past two years, I have been a strong advocate for these causes. I established a Housing Committee and Transportation Committee at the Group level, and together we have written powerful letters advocating for safer streets, more housing, and cleaner, more vibrant cities. For a full list of the letters the NAC Group worked on this year, please visit our blog here:
https://www.sierraclub.org/sfbay/northern-alameda-county/nac-northern-alameda-county-group-blog
In my free time, I am an avid hiker and camper, enjoying the beauty of the regional parks and national parks that the Sierra Club has fought to protect. These green spaces are vital for our well-being and must be preserved for future generations. Together, we can create greener, healthier communities for everyone.
Andy Katz
Residence: Berkeley
Occupation: Environment / Workers’ Rights Attorney
Sierra Club member since: 2002
Contact: andykatz@sonic.net
Activities:
- Northern Alameda County Group Executive Committee (2005-2025)
- Sierra Club California Chair (2011-2012) and California Legislative Committee (2007-2025)
- former chair Bay Chapter Transportation Committee
- Sierra Club delegate to UN climate negotiations (2009-2025), Director, East Bay Municipal Utility District (2007-2025)
Statement: I joined Sierra Club after working on the Chapter’s successful campaign to establish an urban limit line for Alameda County, while advocating for more urban infill housing. The challenges of protecting our climate and natural resources while improving livability in our cities will continue to persist. Sierra Club must strengthen our environmental advocacy and build our grassroots so members can be a part of the process.
My areas of conservation expertise include air quality and climate change, renewable energy, transportation, land use and housing, and water. Professionally, I work as an environmental and workers’ rights attorney, previously worked as an affordable housing developer, and am trained as a city planner. As a board member of the East Bay Municipal Utility District, I fought hard to defeat the proposal to expand Pardee Reservior because of the impacts flooding miles of the Mokelumne River, now protected as a California wild and scenic river, and worked to expand water conservation programs and ensure drought resilience.
On the California Legislative Committee, I’ve worked with our activists and staff to ensure our legislative advocacy program remains strong by advancing California’s clean energy and climate laws. Our membership needs to grow to reflect the diversity of California, and get more members actively involved with our mission. I am running for re election to the Northern Alameda County Executive Committee to contribute my experience in environmental policy in continuing service for our environmental movement. I welcome your feedback - write me with your ideas and questions at andy@andykatz.com.
Phyllis Orrick
Residence: Berkeley
Occupation: Retired researcher and editor in the area of transportation and urban planning at UC Berkeley
Sierra Club member since: 2023
Contact: poberkeley@gmail.com
Activities:
- Sierra Club: Elected member of the NAC Ex Com, the NAC rep on the SF Bay Chapter Ex Com, the Bay Chapter alternate rep to the CCC and the NAC alternate rep to the Chapter Pol Com, Sierra Club rep to the ACTC IWC.
- Other activities: Founding member Schoolhouse Creek Common Garden, Literacy volunteer Berkeley Public Schools; Member Berkeley Commission on Aging; Chair, Caltrans D4 (Bay Area) Pedestrian Advisory Committee; Volunteer ride leader, East Bay Kidical Mass.
Statement: As a member of the NAC Group I helped develop the website for the group.I am also an advocate for walkability, transit and a transportation system that is safe and practical for people of all ages, including youth and the elderly–and the importance of enhancing access to our public lands by means other than personal vehicles.
I organized interviews with candidates and conducted analysis of their positions in terms of their support for Sierra Club values. I am the SF Bay Chapter representative to the Alameda County Transportation Commission’s Independent Watchdog Committee.
Our community garden, two-thirds of whose plants are California natives, will be celebrating its 20th year in 2026.
Terry Taplin
Residence: Berkeley
Occupation: Berkeley City Councilmember
Sierra Club member since: 2019
Contact: Terryataplin@gmail.com
Activities:
- Sierra Club SF Bay Chapter Northern Alameda County Group Executive Committee, Vice-Chair
- Conservation Committee Member
- Former Transportation Committee Chair
Statement: As a City Council representative of West Berkeley, environmental justice and climate equity
have been at the core of my service.
I grew up here, and as a child, I treasured access to the Berkeley Marina and Tilden Regional
Park. I still do. I understand the need to maintain access to city and regional parks for
low-income households and residents of color deeply. I’ve also spent my adult life observing the
impacts of climate change in real-time and have no delusions regarding the urgency of bold,
transformative action and the role of local governments. I’ve worked closely with the Club on
these issues and have greatly appreciated the support and collaboration, as well as the thoughtful deliberation of the Northern Alameda County group executive committee.
Having entered my second term on the Berkeley Council, I continue to champion policies for
drought-resistant landscaping on city property and the remediation of toxic soil and groundwater, expanding green infrastructure and green transportation, and local green workforce development to accelerate the just transition to a fossil-free economy. I remain a stalwart defender of equitable access to recreation space and green space for marginalized youth, and a vocal proponent of biodiversity on the Berkeley Waterfront.
As a member of NACG’s executive committee, I will bring years of public service and community organizing and laser-sharp focus on equity, resiliency, and environmental justice. I will work tirelessly to uphold the Sierra Club’s values of environmental stewardship and climate action while engaging historically excluded marginalized communities.
San Francisco Group
There are six candidates. You may vote for five or fewer.
Please note: The San Francisco Group ballot in the print Yodeler is incorrect. There are five open seats for SF Group ExCom.
Sarah Boudreau
Residence: San Francisco
Occupation: Civil Engineer
Sierra Club member since: 2022
Contact: boudreau.sarah.m@gmail.com
Activities:
- Member, Sierra Club San Francisco Group Executive Committee
- Member, Sierra Club San Francisco Group Events and Growth Subcommittee (planned picnics, happy hours, Earth Day tabling events, and Sierra Club election mobilizations for endorsed candidates over my last term)
- Alternate representative, Sierra Club Bay Area Chapter Executive Committee
Statement: I am passionate about creating a sustainable, resilient, and safe San Francisco designed for all kinds of San Franciscans.
I’m optimistic about what the Sierra Club can achieve in our city: reimagining San Francisco as we tackle climate change by electrifying and reducing carbon emissions and as we improve our resiliency by implementing nature-based solutions. In my time on the San Francisco Group Executive Committee this term, I helped create the Events and Growth Subcommittee to track and increase the club’s membership and create engaging events for members to meet, connect with each other, and enjoy our incredible park system, and I hope to continue this work over another term.
I am raising my young family in San Francisco and envision helping to grow my home to be its best walkable and human-scaled self: with homes near jobs and destinations, safe streets I feel comfortable biking and walking with my family on, and open spaces for all people to enjoy nature and community in. I look forward to continuing to engage the membership of this Sierra Club chapter to help enact this vision.
Garen Checkley
Residence: San Francisco
Occupation: Product Manager
Sierra Club member since: 2015
Contact: GarenCheckley@gmail.com
Activities:
- Member, Sierra Club Bay Area Chapter Executive Committee
- Member, Sierra Club San Francisco Group Executive Committee
- Member, Sierra Club San Francisco Group Conservation Committee
Statement: Addressing climate change is my top focus. To do so, the city of San Francisco needs to adopt local policies that encourage use of speedy, predictable, and safe public transit, accelerate building decarbonization, and support urban infill housing, especially affordable units.
Despite my concern about climate change, I’m an optimist: I believe reducing our fossil field dependence will lead to a more enjoyable and healthy city. Walkable neighborhoods with outdoor car-free spaces bring communities together. Bike lanes offer a chance to enjoy the outdoors while commuting. Well funded public transit can be safer, faster, more comfortable, and less stressful than driving. Urban infill helps communities maintain affordability while reducing driving. I also believe local investment in climate mitigation and adaptation, like building decarbonization, can offer well-paying jobs to communities who have suffered environmental injustice.
If elected I will champion local changes that impact our global climate, notably:
● improving public transit, bike lanes, and car-free spaces
● accelerating building decarbonization and efficiency upgrades
● supporting housing, especially affordable units, to reduce vehicle miles traveled
Outside of my advocacy, I’m an avid hiker and camper – both car camping and backpacking – with Yosemite being my favorite destination. While outside, I enjoy watercoloring, cooking (preferably over a campfire), performing piano (preferably at Flower Piano in Golden Gate Park), and reading.
I commute daily on MUNI and bike, I can often be found running through our city’s wonderful parks.
John Crabtree
Residence: San Francisco
Occupation: Not submitted
Sierra Club member since: Not submitted
Contact: johncrabtree52@gmail.com
Activities: not submitted
Statement: I have advocated for the natural environment that surrounds us all for decades. I have worked diligently to connect with those living in frontline communities, urban and rural, that suffer policy insults and policymaker indifference.
I have been a Sierra Club member for over 30 years. And from March 2017 through July 2023 I worked as the State Campaign Representative of the Nebraska Beyond Coal Campaign. I led a highly effective team conducting a sophisticated strategic campaign to move Nebraska’s public power districts and municipal utilities to retire their aging coal fleets, eschew construction of new gas generation, and replace retired assets with clean energy.
I am gravely concerned about the ongoing climate crisis and the environmental degradation in all our communities. The linkages between economic injustice, social injustice and environmental injustice are simply too direct and too tight to ignore, despite the fact that so many elected officials and other so-called “leaders” in our country continue to ignore them. I have lived much of my life in the Midwest – Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota – but I live in San Francisco now and I choose to offer my time and service to the San Francisco Group of Sierra Club and hope to earn the support of every member.
The destruction of our environment and our communities is not inevitable. They are the result of choices made by people, choices that can be unmade by people, if we have the will to try.
Joanna Renee Gubman
Residence: Not submitted
Occupation: Not submitted
Sierra Club member since: 2019
Contact: jgubman@gmail.com
Statement: I’m running for reelection to continue co-creating a Sierra Club that is strategic, inclusive, and effective in advocating for a habitable climate, healthy ecosystems, and environmental justice. Equitable, affordable access to walkable/bikeable communities, convenient transit, and a non-toxic environment are essential. I also love growing our community of nature lovers - I enjoy hiking, canoeing, snowshoeing, and more, and especially enjoy sharing the joy of nature with others.
I joined the Sierra Club in 2019 and became an SF Group Executive Committee member in 2024. This year I’m the Group representative to the SF Bay Chapter Executive Committee and the California Conservation Committee.
Professionally, I’ve led environmental, transportation, and land-use work in government, nonprofit, and research institutions. I’ve served as a Judge and Advisor at the California Public Utilities Commission, advancing clean energy and transportation policy with a focus on underserved communities. As Executive Director of Urban Environmentalists (a YIMBY Action initiative), I led environmental advocacy and policy, restructured our leadership program, and grew the initiative 6.5x. I also conducted solar energy and transportation policy research in Germany.
I love building effective advocacy systems, growing coalitions, and empowering teams. Besides my Sierra Club roles, I am a SF Bicycle Coalition Education Fund and California Walks board member, and a Rail Passengers Association State Representative.
I’m committed to making the Sierra Club a powerful, welcoming home for organizers from all backgrounds.
Endorsed by Charles Whitfield and Max Davis (SF and Northern Alameda County Group Executive Committee Chairs).
Kendal Peirce
Residence: San Francisco
Occupation: Product Marketing
Sierra Club member since: 2025
Contact: kepeirce@gmail.com
Activities:
- Sierra Club Volunteer Member
- Social Committee Member , Save The Redwood League
- Volunteer + Participant, ClimateRide
- Volunteer, San Francisco Bicycle Coalition
- Leader, SF Abundance
Statement: I am running for the San Francisco Sierra Club Executive Committee because I believe our city must lead boldly in the fight against climate change. I feel both urgency and responsibility to strengthen community resiliency here in the Bay Area, building systems and spaces that protect people and the planet we share.
My commitment to environmental advocacy is rooted in action. I have been a longtime volunteer with bicycle coalitions in every city I’ve lived, including San Francisco, working to expand safe, sustainable transportation that benefits both the environment and our diverse communities. As a participant and fundraiser with Climate Ride, I have helped support climate initiatives through cycling adventures and community building. I also serve on the social board of Save the Redwoods League, advancing efforts to protect and expand our redwood and sequoia forests.
Professionally, I bring experience across both big tech companies and start-ups. In large organizations, I have led complex cross-functional projects that required tight alignment and consensus across diverse stakeholders. In start-up environments, I have thrived wearing many hats, executing with minimal resources and maximum creativity. Across all of these, I’ve excelled at framing big challenges in ways that bring people together, crafting narratives that inspire participation, and driving initiatives forward with clarity and accountability.
Outside of work, I find joy riding my bike through the streets and beautiful hills of the Bay Area and enjoying community events and art; activities that deepen my connection to this city.
I am excited at this opportunity to help lead my community in strengthening resiliency, fostering connection, and building a San Francisco that is equitable, sustainable, and thriving for all.
Howard Strassner
Residence: Not submitted
Occupation: Not submitted
Sierra Club member since: Not submitted
Contact: ruthow1@gmail.com
Activities: Not submitted
Statement: The Sierra Club started 130 years ago to preserve the wilderness when most people were not concerned, because they saw that there was still ample wilderness. Fifty years ago the SF Group took their first steps to support reducing the supply of parking when most people, even Sierra Club members, were convinced that there was a shortage of parking. We supported innovative steps and urged for bigger steps to reduce parking as a means to reduce driving. Less parking has produced more taxis so we now have to be more innovative to support transit to reduce congestion.
But, we have another problem, the production of affordable housing. I along with the Excom have always supported the ballot measures and ordinances which tend to maintain and expand the supply of affordable housing. But, we also need additional market rate housing, near good transit, even if that means accepting greater height and density, in order to provide more affordable housing. This is National SC policy on housing and driving, which seeks to have more people live where they don’t have to commute long distances and don’t have to drive for most of their everyday needs.
Please support me again, for election to the SF Group ExCom so that I can have a part with the Sierra Club in our City’s efforts to solve these problems.
Southern Alameda County Group
There are four candidates. You may vote for up to three.
Kelly Abreu
Residence: Fremont
Occupation: Engineer – retired
Sierra Club member since: 2017
Contact: abrfar-eb@yahoo.com
Activities: Co-founder of Mission Peak Conservancy
Statement: As a long-time resident of Fremont, I understand the careful balance between environmental preservation and equitable urban development. My experience has focused on protecting critical open spaces, wetlands, and creeks while also championing transit-oriented development to improve the quality of life for all Bay Area residents.
My work has centered on creating better access to nature through well-managed parks and trails. I've successfully advocated for city and county ordinances to protect rural lands from unsuitable development and have worked to expand multi-use trails, enhancing bike and pedestrian safety in areas like Niles Canyon. I have also supported improvements at regional parks such as Vargas Plateau and Coyote Hills. I collaborated with the community and city to restrict motor vehicle access in Morrison Canyon, dedicating a new trail for bicyclists and pedestrians.
I am eager to help the Southern Alameda County Group to further climate readiness and promote social equity. I would be honored to have your support.
Mark Evanoff
Residence: Union City
Occupation: Retired
Sierra Club member since: 1986
Contact: markcoyote1955@gmail.com
Activities: Not submitted
Statement: My name is Mark Evanoff and I am seeking office as a member of the Southern Alameda Group Executive Committee. I am retired, a resident of Union City, and a Sierra Club member since 1986. I have been an active participant in the outings program from the beginning of my membership and participate now in the Southern Alameda Group.
Our obligation as members of the Sierra Club is to inspire people to work for positive environmental goals and to encourage and mentor young people to become leaders.
When working for Greenbelt Alliance I advocated for an open space acquisition mechanism in conjunction with passage of a transportation tax in Contra Costa County. The end result was East Bay Regional Park District placing Measure AA on the ballot passed by voters. Motivated by the passage of Measure AA, activists organized to form with voter support the Open Space Authority Santa Clara Valley and the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District. Regional park agencies in the Bay Area passed multiple funding measures totaling two billion dollars to fund park acquisition.
I am a founder of the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council. While working for Union City I led projects to build affordable housing, focus high density housing around the BART Station and to improve bicycle, pedestrian, and bus access to BART.
Gary Wolff
Residence: Castro Valley
Occupation: Not submitted
Sierra Club member since: 1985
Contact: 18850gw@gmail.com
Activities: Not submitted
Statement: I will listen, act, and share as we work together to keep southern Alameda County clean and green and pristine (well OK, we’ve got to visit wilderness areas if we want pristine). I’ve been a Sierra Club member since 1985, living in Hayward from 1988 to 2003, and Castro Valley since. I’ve worked steadily and sometimes stealthily to protect and enhance our shared environment, and I’m ready to serve on the Southern Alameda County Group ExCom — if you want me to! I have served as the Executive Director of a government agency (StopWaste), been a member of the Regional and State Water Boards (appointed by the Governor, confirmed by the CA Senate) and the Alameda County Recycling Board, founded a consulting firm, worked as a
licensed solar contractor, done environmental research for non-profits, and taught environmental economics and sustainability. I’m a water and environmental engineer, and Ph.D. resource economist, with decades of experience. My reports while at the Pacific Institute (Oakland) helped prevent or reverse several water system privatizations, and advanced our understanding of water use efficiency and watershed management economics. I hike, swim, whitewater kayak and raft, canoe, and cross-country ski. This year, I canoed the boundary waters of Minnesota and kayaked the San Juan river in Utah. Heavy thunderstorms and cold weather were part of both trips. But as Edward Abbey wrote: “Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit, and as vital to our lives as water and good bread.”
William Yragui
Residence: Not submitted
Occupation: Not submitted
Sierra Club member since: 2012
Contact: wyragui@missionpeakconservancy.net
Activities:
SF Bay Chapter since 2012. Current Southern Alameda Group ExCom member, Political Committee representative, Activities Committee Chair. Member of the EBRPD Environmental Caucus. Co-founder - Mission Peak Conservancy. Volunteer - Alameda County Search and Rescue, CEO - Infobond for 33 years.
Statement:
The Sierra Club needs energetic advocates to protect our communities and parks. I have worked with club leaders and other environmental groups to; endorse strong political candidates; block housing on Bay mudflats; work to keep our parks accessible; and develop multi-use trails.
I support development of multi-use paths, expanded park hours and well-maintained trails. We need to complete the East Bay Greenway, Niles Canyon, Bay Ridge and Bay Trails, by engaging the public in Hayward, San Lorenzo, Union City, Sunol, Newark and Fremont. Safe paths protect families recreating, churchgoers, shoppers and commuters. Climate change is real and encouraging bike and pedestrian use reduces greenhouse gases leading to healthier communities. I support the efforts of local agencies to address sea level rise along the Bay shoreline to protect our communities.
I believe the Southern Alameda Executive Committee should stand up when homes are built on mudflats and warehouses on bay fill. Our group should demonstrate empathy and compassion to the homeless and encourage dense housing near transit. I would sincerely appreciate your vote. Thank you.
Tri-Valley Group
There are three candidates. You may vote for up to three.
Donna Cabanne
Residence: Not submitted
Occupation: Not submitted
Sierra Club member since: Not submitted
Contact: donna.cabanne@gmail.com
Activities: Not submitted
Statement: Let's work together for a greener environment and reduce the effects of climate change.
If re-elected, I will focus on:
Working for cleaner air and drinking water in the Tr-Valley
Protecting Measure D, preserving open space, and biodiversity
Reducing climate change by supporting renewable energy
Advocating for Tesla Park to become a State Reserve
In the 40 years I have lived in the Tri-Valley, I have worked on many environmental issues including air and water quality, preserving open space and parks, and banning fracking in Alameda County. We need to achieve a cleaner, sustainable environment. Cleaner air remains a top priority because the Tri-Valley is a non-attainment air basin. We can clean our air by reducing the leaded aviation fuel sold at the Livermore Airport.
Water is a critical resource. How do we deal with future water shortages? How do we remove PFAS from our water supply? How do we determine the source of PFAS? We need to continue our efforts to secure cleaner drinking water now and for future generations.
We all face the ongoing climate crisis. We can reduce its impacts by building sustainable, affordable housing, and enhancing pedestrian and bike safety with carefully designed lanes and trails that connect our Tri-Valley cities. Youth membership is critical for new ideas and enthusiasm.
What are your concerns and interests? I welcome your feedback and respectfully ask for your vote. Together, we can make the Tri-Valley a better environment for all.
Lynn Seppala
Residence: Livermore
Occupation: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, optical scientist National Ignition Facility (retired)
Sierra Club member since: 1977 life
Contact: lynnseppala@gmail.com
Activities:
Tri-Valley Group Vice chair 2022, Chair 2023
Statement: In 1977, I met my future wife on a Sierra Club hike on Pleasanton Ridge during which the leader emphasized the need for a park. In 1980, residents defeated a referendum for ridgetop developments. In 1988, the East Bay Regional Park District purchased land, creating the Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park. Citizen involvement was essential.
I have been active in campaigns to preserve open space. I knocked on doors urging passage of Alameda County’s Measure D in 2000, defining agricultural land use policies. I collected petition signatures that helped convince the Livermore City Council to adopt an Urban Growth Boundary in 2002.
For decades, Measure D, Tri-Valley cities’ UGBs, and South Livermore Valley Area Plan have protected agricultural lands, saving endangered plants and animals, and preserving scenic corridors.
Measure D is under attack and there is no time to relax. The County has authorized a 400-acre solar installation and cemetery complex, ignoring Measure D while failing to formulate a land use policy.
My 37 years at LLNL was spent developing alternative energy sources. We must limit the effects of global warming, while heeding the Club’s mission to protect our Tri-Valley’s habitat, ecosystems and scenic corridors.
I bring management experience, with many leadership roles – President, Chair or Vice Chair for: Las Positas College Foundation, Chabot Las Positas College Bond Oversight Committee and three other nonprofit arts organizations.
I welcome your support and trust in me that I will adhere to the Club’s policies protecting our Tri-Valley’s environment.
Erik Sommargren
Residence: Livermore
Occupation: Geologist and Technical Writer
Sierra Club member since: 2023
Contact: erik.sommargren@gmail.com
Activities:
- Vice Chair, Tri-Valley Group
- Chapter Water Committee representative
- Chapter Outings leader
- Chapter Political Committee alternate representative
Statement: As a geologist and former earth science teacher born and raised in the Tri-Valley area, I’ve always been fascinated by how the tectonics, sedimentology, and hydrogeology of the Diablo Range intersect with societal issues.
My current interests lie in both the sustainable management of regional groundwater resources as well as the characterization, monitoring, and mitigation of PFAS contamination in the Livermore Valley Groundwater Basin. In order to effectively address pressing soil and groundwater contamination issues in the Tri-Valley area, I build relationships between consulting geoscientists, government agencies, and municipalities with the goal of finding solutions through iterative dialogue.
In 2024, I authored and championed the following three resolutions that were endorsed by the Chapter Executive Committee:
The Sierra Club recognizes PFAS contamination of the Livermore Valley Groundwater Basin as a serious water quality problem for Tri-Valley residents.
The Sierra Club urges the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board to expedite its PFAS source investigation.
The Sierra Club urges the California Division of Drinking Water to re-examine the proposal by the City of Pleasanton and Zone 7 Water Agency to drill new production wells downgradient from the PFAS contamination plume.
I also lead Sierra Club hikes at Morgan Territory Regional Preserve as well as serve as a volunteer firefighter in the Morgan Territory area for the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District. In my spare time, I enjoy hiking and paddleboarding with my family in the wild spaces of the Diablo Range and beyond.
West Contra Costa County Group
There are three candidates. You may vote for up to three.
Norman La Force
Residence: El Cerrito
Occupation: Pro bono Attorney for Sierra Club
Sierra Club member since: Life Member since 1983
Contact: n.laforce@comcast.net
Activities:
- Chapter Chair: 1991-1993; 2009, 2012;
- Chapter Executive Committee: 1985- Present (with some time off over the years);
- Chair, East Bay Public Lands Committee (formerly East Shore State Park Task Force): 1984-2025;
- Chapter Political Committee: 1991-Present;
- Chapter Legal Chair: 1984-Present;
- West County Group Chair: 2004-Present
- Proudest Accomplishments: Sierra Club leader in creating the McLaughlin Eastshore Park; Pro Bono Attorney for Sierra Club in saving Point Molate as a Regional Park
Statement: I have long been the Sierra Club Bay Chapter advocate on parks and open space. I was the Sierra Club’s pro bono attorney in the CEQA lawsuit that saved Point Molate from development to make it a Regional Park. I also was the Club’s attorney in the CEQA suit to clean up the toxic Zeneca site in Richmond so it does not become another Love Canal. I have actively opposed the recent gutting of CEQA and our Endangered Species Act. My energy, skills, and passion are dedicated to protecting our natural treasurers of the Bay Area.
As Chair of the West County Group ExCom, I have and will continue to work to preserve the West County Shoreline, clean up toxic sites Zeneca, stop Chevron’s efforts to refine heavy tar sands for oil, and prevent the transport of dirty coal in open rail cars, contaminating our neighborhoods.
Today, our environment faces new threats. Politicians and corporate interests are working to weaken CEQA, the Endangered Species Act, and other vital protections. We need strong outspoken advocates who know how to win.
I want to finish what we started: securing Point Molate as a fully realized regional park and adding the Golden Gate Fields site as the keystone of the McLaughlin Eastshore State Park. A vote for me is a vote for experience, proven results, and an unwavering commitment to the wild places and communities we love. Vote for me and Lisa Park and Cesar Zepeda to keep our winning team together.
Lisa Park
Residence: Richmond, CA
Occupation: Registered Environmental Health Specialist
Sierra Club member since: 1981
Contact: lpark@sonic.net
Activities:
- West CoCo Treasurer
- West CoCo Secretary
- West CoCo Nominations Committee member for candidates for local offices
Statement: I joined the Sierra Club many years ago because I loved the outdoors, especially the forests, and wanted to protect them. After Donald Trump won the 2016 election, I asked myself what I can do on a local level to counterbalance his agenda with one that advances justice, democracy, science, and environmental protection. I decided to volunteer for the Sierra Club. I gradually learned more about how the Club works and about environmental issues in West County. One such issue is No Coal in Richmond, of which I’m proud to say we prevailed. In 2019 I ran for a position on the Executive Committee and won my seat. This is now my fourth election cycle; my six years on the Executive Committee have been very fruitful. I would appreciate your vote so that I can continue to address local environmental challenges.
Cesar Zepeda
Residence: Not submitted
Occupation: Not submitted
Sierra Club member since: Not submitted
Contact: Cesarz3@hotmail.com
Activities: Not submitted
Statement: Former West County ExCom Chapter Chair, and co-Chair for several years. Now I'm at Chapter board member-at-large
I am an advocate for parks and open space. I voted to have Point Molate become a Regional Park. Working with the West County Wastewater District on the North Richmond Shoreline. Currently serve on the SF Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC). Are very involved in finding solutions to help our community with sea level rise.
I want to create more parks and open space for all our communities to enjoy. Increasing our tree canopies in every community to help lower CO2 and provide cleaner air for all.
I've had the privilege or working alongside many great members of the West County ExCom. We have a winning team on our current executive committee. Vote for Lisa Park, Norman LaForce, and me to keep our team together.
Thank you.