I love California, but PG&E is one of the worst parts of living here | Opinion

Placer County donations

“In California, no limit on school board campaign donations,” (sacbee.com, Aug. 21)

It’s no secret that groups and individuals with deep pockets and targeted agendas contribute substantial sums to school board candidates. The American Council, the PAC associated with Destiny Church, played a significant role in the 2022 elections by supporting several candidates in Placer County. This led to a shift in local school board majorities, resulting in poor public policy, fiscal irresponsibility, chaos and lawsuits.

Individuals in this article seek to do the same. They donate to promote their rights over those who cannot afford to do the same. Legislation failed to limit these enormous contributions, but Rocklin Unified School Board Member Rachelle Price seems unconcerned about their implications.

The donation to Holly Cuthbertson, however, was from her father, Rex Carpenter. That fact casts a different light on the contribution. As with any campaign, voters must follow the money and scrutinize who is donating and what they expect in return.

Barbara Smith

Auburn

Drug policy reform

“Prop. 36: CA Dems split over retail theft & crime measure,” (sacbee.com, Aug. 14)

What would be wrong with drug policy reform, when the policies extant have added to the death toll of thousands of Californians, many of whom never reached adulthood? Or incarcerating thieves who are repeat offenders? And, yes, what of the costs? How much does it cost business owners and tax payers when prices for goods and security explode exponentially because there are no tools available to deal with the would-be felons?

That Democratic lawmakers are supporting sensible changes in our criminal justice system provides hope, despite Gov. Gavin Newsom’s unsupported, speculative concerns.

Bill Motmans

Sacramento

Critique of PG&E

“PG&E rates are much higher than Roseville Electric. Why?” (sacbee.com, Aug. 12)

PG&E utility rates are not just higher than Roseville Electric rates, they are much higher than the Sacramento Municipal Utility District’s and most other publicly-owned utilities in California.

Paying PG&E’s high utility bills means that residents of Auburn, Loomis and Rocklin have considerably less discretionary income to spend. The cost difference goes to PG&E shareholders.

The vow to keep rate increases below 3% for two years is a hollow promise when PG&E just raised them by 23% in the last two years. The City of Rocklin’s conclusion that PG&E does not meet the needs of local communities is a huge understatement. There are great reasons to love California, but PG&E is one of the worst parts of living here.

Michael Bloom

Auburn

Harris vs. Newsom

“Does Harris’ presidential campaign ruin Newsom’s plans?” (sacbee.com, July 23)

I will be voting for Kamala Harris. To be clear, however, her star did not rise above Gov. Gavin Newsom’s. She was anointed. He did not even get a chance to be in the race.

I look forward to voting for him as a future president. He has it all: substance, policy, personality and savoir faire.

RoseAnn DeMoro

Napa