Healdsburg voters are already making their choices in the local election for the District 2 City Council seat. With only two candidates actively running—though there is a third name on the ballot; Alex Wood dropped out of the race in September—it’s an either/or proposition for voters.
Rather than send Mathew López, 27, and Scott Pratt, 60, a questionnaire on their points of view and positions, we decided to ask them: “What do you want voters to see when they look at you?”
They submitted the following statements, only slightly copy edited.
Mathew López
I want voters to see my candidacy as evidence that new, youthful leaders are stepping up to advocate for the direction our city must go in. To have a young candidate be supported and voted-in by long-term Healdsburg residents tells a powerful story of passing the torch. In terms of raising the level of discourse in this city, my campaign has been a huge success.
Day-to-day locals aren’t concerned about whether their candidates have an abstract theoretical political framework. Whether it’s tangible issues like potholes and public transit, or perpetual problems like equity and water security, I want to provide confidence to residents, not just my voters, that I’m contributing to the city making progress.
I’d also like my modesty to be recognized as a contribution to normal: Less outrage and more consideration of regular life. Speak softly and carry a big stick, if you will. After election day, I wouldn’t want the label of politician to supplant my role as a teacher, coach or even a regular guy. If elected to City Council, I would continue to describe myself as a math teacher before a politician. That’s what a vote for Lopez offers.”
Scott Pratt
My campaign began with one word: listen. Before I can effectively represent Healdsburg residents, I need to understand how decisions about housing, infrastructure, water, public safety and our city’s future affect their lives.
I believe voters expect their council members to listen, understand their concerns and make thoughtful decisions that reflect the needs of the people they represent. Not simply follow the direction of other council members.
I’ve spent 35 years in commercial production managing budgets, solving complicated problems and bringing people with different priorities together. My work on the Anderson Valley Housing Association board reinforced that meaningful solutions require patience, collaboration and difficult decisions. My life experience has taught me when to lead, when to compromise and, most importantly, when to listen.
I’m running because I can no longer stand on the sidelines watching our government make decisions that go beyond questionable, sometimes threatening the very foundations of our democracy. Rather than simply express my outrage, I’ve chosen to get involved where I can make a difference.
While Healdsburg is a small city, I believe our decisions can have ripple effects far beyond our boundaries. Thoughtful local leadership can provide examples for communities across the country.
