News Releases and Letters
Harbor predecessor comes forward for Mike Wilson (10-9-2009)
The first third division commissioner to serve on the board of the Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation, and Conservation District has endorsed current commissioner Mike Wilson for a second term.
"He's practical and a realist," said James Gast, the first commissioner to fill Wilson's current position. Gast is also the former director of the Humboldt State University Telonicher Marine Laboratory and a retired oceanography professor.
Citing Wilson's engineering experience and practical understanding of the port and environment issues, he said, "It will continue to take innovators like Mike in both industry and government to create viable jobs and protect Humboldt Bay's water quality. Mike represents that next generation of leadership."
The first third division commissioner to serve on the board of the Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation, and Conservation District has endorsed current commissioner Mike Wilson for a second term.
"He's practical and a realist," said James Gast, the first commissioner to fill Wilson's current position. Gast is also the former director of the Humboldt State University Telonicher Marine Laboratory and a retired oceanography professor.
Citing Wilson's engineering experience and practical understanding of the port and environment issues, he said, "It will continue to take innovators like Mike in both industry and government to create viable jobs and protect Humboldt Bay's water quality. Mike represents that next generation of leadership."
Letter to the Editor (10-2009)
As health care professionals in Humboldt County we believe that we have a unique opportunity to elect a Humboldt Bay Commissioner with a Commitment towards a healthier community. Mike Wilson is the incumbent candidate who has placed the Humboldt Bay trails as a priority in his vision of important projects to move forward. He has assured us that if re-elected he will continue work hard towards that end.
It is well known and accepted that regular exercise has beneficial effect on most of the diseases of our western civilization. As doctors, nurses, and other health professionals of Humboldt County, we believe it is our responsibility to speak out for the health needs of our entire community. Regular exercise in the fresh beautiful outdoors is a key component towards healthy living. There perhaps isn't a more important project development than the trails for the public health of our community. Think about the joy our community and tourists alike would have along this trail.
This would be visible from the 101-corridor traffic. What a great advertisement to entice others to use the trails. We encourage all our patients to live active lives when we see them in our practices. At the same time, we must take steps to ensure that infrastructure exists to make active lifestyles safe, appealing, and convenient. If we do not, it is as if we are prescribing medicine without providing access to it. Biking, walking, or other active modes of commuting are a great way for people to incorporate physical exercise into their daily routine. Additionally, active commute modes have other benefits, like lessening our dependence on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions. Presently many bikers do not feel safe on our existing roads especially the routes between Eureka and Arcata. One of the best immediate steps to make active living safer and more appealing is to construct a Humboldt Bay Trail between Eureka and Arcata. A beautiful scenic route would attract commuters and recreationalists alike to enjoy fresh air, exercise, and public space.
A feasibility study commissioned by HCAOG found that the Humboldt Bay Trail would offer our community millions of dollars per year in health benefits and contribute millions more dollars in direct economic activity per year. Our community gives up these millions of dollar every year we go without the trail, not to mention quality of life advantages. According to the study the cost of building the trail is just a fraction of the return benefits it would offer in only a few years.
For the sake of our community's health and safety, we need this trail built as soon as possible. With the right leadership the Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation, and Conservation District can improve recreational access in and around our bay, coordinate funding for trail projects, and oversee their construction. Therefore, we care a great deal about the priorities and abilities of any candidate for bay district commissioner. There is only one candidate running for fifth district commissioner who has the vision, passion, and plan to move the Humboldt Bay Trail forward -- he is Mike Wilson.
Mike has experience as the incumbent bay commissioner, a businessman, a professional engineer and even a bike commuter. He understands how a healthy economy, ecosystem and community are not mutually exclusive. In fact this is the type of infrastructure that attracts new businesses, and creates new employment opportunities in our community resulting in a boost to our economy. Please join us in supporting Mike Wilson for 3rd Division Bay Commissioner. We're all looking forward to a community enjoying walking, jogging and biking on the Humboldt Bay Trails.
Erik Jansson, MD
Paula Edwards, MD
Kenneth Miller, MD
Caroline Connor, MD
Jeff Corral-Ribordy, MD
O. Brian Craig, MD
Stephen Kamelgarn, MD
Phillip Vogelsang, MD
Tim Haskett, FNP
Uzi Selcer, MD
Joan Hoffman, MD
Jennifer Heidmann, MD
Emily Dalton, MD
Allen Mathew, MD
Bruce Kessler, MD
Melissa Mc Kenzie, DO
Gregory Gibb, MD
Willard Hunter, MD
Joseph Carroll, MD
David Ploss, MD
David Gans, MD
Raphaelle Butler, MD
Corinne Frugoni, MD
Ann Lindsey, MD
Edward Olsgard, MD
Sheldon Meshulum, MD
Mark Pardoe, MD
Scott Diamond, MD
Michael Palmer, MD
Jack Irvine, MD
Douglas Jornlin, RN
Marrianne Gilbert, FNP
Lawrence Wieland, MD
Howarde Freiman, DO
Allison Burton, MD
Alan Glaseroff, MD
Frank Zazueta, MD
Nathan Copple, MD
Stephen Clark, MD
Marty Smukler, MD
Christopher Cody, MD
James Quillen, MD
Gregory Holland, MD
John Gambin, MD
Robert La Clair, MD
Eric Gerdes, DO
Timothy Delsaso, MD
As health care professionals in Humboldt County we believe that we have a unique opportunity to elect a Humboldt Bay Commissioner with a Commitment towards a healthier community. Mike Wilson is the incumbent candidate who has placed the Humboldt Bay trails as a priority in his vision of important projects to move forward. He has assured us that if re-elected he will continue work hard towards that end.
It is well known and accepted that regular exercise has beneficial effect on most of the diseases of our western civilization. As doctors, nurses, and other health professionals of Humboldt County, we believe it is our responsibility to speak out for the health needs of our entire community. Regular exercise in the fresh beautiful outdoors is a key component towards healthy living. There perhaps isn't a more important project development than the trails for the public health of our community. Think about the joy our community and tourists alike would have along this trail.
This would be visible from the 101-corridor traffic. What a great advertisement to entice others to use the trails. We encourage all our patients to live active lives when we see them in our practices. At the same time, we must take steps to ensure that infrastructure exists to make active lifestyles safe, appealing, and convenient. If we do not, it is as if we are prescribing medicine without providing access to it. Biking, walking, or other active modes of commuting are a great way for people to incorporate physical exercise into their daily routine. Additionally, active commute modes have other benefits, like lessening our dependence on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions. Presently many bikers do not feel safe on our existing roads especially the routes between Eureka and Arcata. One of the best immediate steps to make active living safer and more appealing is to construct a Humboldt Bay Trail between Eureka and Arcata. A beautiful scenic route would attract commuters and recreationalists alike to enjoy fresh air, exercise, and public space.
A feasibility study commissioned by HCAOG found that the Humboldt Bay Trail would offer our community millions of dollars per year in health benefits and contribute millions more dollars in direct economic activity per year. Our community gives up these millions of dollar every year we go without the trail, not to mention quality of life advantages. According to the study the cost of building the trail is just a fraction of the return benefits it would offer in only a few years.
For the sake of our community's health and safety, we need this trail built as soon as possible. With the right leadership the Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation, and Conservation District can improve recreational access in and around our bay, coordinate funding for trail projects, and oversee their construction. Therefore, we care a great deal about the priorities and abilities of any candidate for bay district commissioner. There is only one candidate running for fifth district commissioner who has the vision, passion, and plan to move the Humboldt Bay Trail forward -- he is Mike Wilson.
Mike has experience as the incumbent bay commissioner, a businessman, a professional engineer and even a bike commuter. He understands how a healthy economy, ecosystem and community are not mutually exclusive. In fact this is the type of infrastructure that attracts new businesses, and creates new employment opportunities in our community resulting in a boost to our economy. Please join us in supporting Mike Wilson for 3rd Division Bay Commissioner. We're all looking forward to a community enjoying walking, jogging and biking on the Humboldt Bay Trails.
Erik Jansson, MD
Paula Edwards, MD
Kenneth Miller, MD
Caroline Connor, MD
Jeff Corral-Ribordy, MD
O. Brian Craig, MD
Stephen Kamelgarn, MD
Phillip Vogelsang, MD
Tim Haskett, FNP
Uzi Selcer, MD
Joan Hoffman, MD
Jennifer Heidmann, MD
Emily Dalton, MD
Allen Mathew, MD
Bruce Kessler, MD
Melissa Mc Kenzie, DO
Gregory Gibb, MD
Willard Hunter, MD
Joseph Carroll, MD
David Ploss, MD
David Gans, MD
Raphaelle Butler, MD
Corinne Frugoni, MD
Ann Lindsey, MD
Edward Olsgard, MD
Sheldon Meshulum, MD
Mark Pardoe, MD
Scott Diamond, MD
Michael Palmer, MD
Jack Irvine, MD
Douglas Jornlin, RN
Marrianne Gilbert, FNP
Lawrence Wieland, MD
Howarde Freiman, DO
Allison Burton, MD
Alan Glaseroff, MD
Frank Zazueta, MD
Nathan Copple, MD
Stephen Clark, MD
Marty Smukler, MD
Christopher Cody, MD
James Quillen, MD
Gregory Holland, MD
John Gambin, MD
Robert La Clair, MD
Eric Gerdes, DO
Timothy Delsaso, MD
Humboldt County Scientists and Engineers Support Wilson's Balanced Approach to Bay Management (9-28-2009)
Citing Humboldt Bay as an ecological treasure and a potential economic engine for the region, 34 local scientists, professionals, and engineers rallied to support Mike Wilson's re-election to the HBHRC District.
The group of scientists, restoration professionals, and engineers who conduct research and perform restoration work on the bay ecosystem, said they understand the value of returning the bay to a strong, productive state. Since the work they do to plan, design and implement the restoration of the Bay's surrounding salt marsh and estuaries brings millions of dollars to Humboldt County in research, engineering, and construction jobs, this group believes the successful restoration of the bay ecosystem will improve community health and lead to a stronger fishing economy.
Aldaron Laird, a spokesperson for the group said, "We have come forward to support his re-election because Mike doesn't just speak of a healthy bay, his environmental engineering background helps to insure that the water quality of the bay remains a high priority so that the ecological benefits are maintained and enhanced."
Laird also said that as the 3rd Division Commissioner, Wilson has been a strong advocate for sound research and science, and has championed projects that improve the health and economic benefits of the bay.
Citing Humboldt Bay as an ecological treasure and a potential economic engine for the region, 34 local scientists, professionals, and engineers rallied to support Mike Wilson's re-election to the HBHRC District.
The group of scientists, restoration professionals, and engineers who conduct research and perform restoration work on the bay ecosystem, said they understand the value of returning the bay to a strong, productive state. Since the work they do to plan, design and implement the restoration of the Bay's surrounding salt marsh and estuaries brings millions of dollars to Humboldt County in research, engineering, and construction jobs, this group believes the successful restoration of the bay ecosystem will improve community health and lead to a stronger fishing economy.
Aldaron Laird, a spokesperson for the group said, "We have come forward to support his re-election because Mike doesn't just speak of a healthy bay, his environmental engineering background helps to insure that the water quality of the bay remains a high priority so that the ecological benefits are maintained and enhanced."
Laird also said that as the 3rd Division Commissioner, Wilson has been a strong advocate for sound research and science, and has championed projects that improve the health and economic benefits of the bay.
Letter to the Editor (9-28-2009)
Humboldt Bay is an ecological treasure and could become an economic engine for our region.
As scientists, restoration professionals, and engineers who conduct research and perform restoration work on the bay ecosystem, we understand the value of returning the bay to a strong, productive state. The implications are profound for our health, recreation, the economy and, of course, fish and wildlife in and around our bay waters.
For decades the Humboldt Bay's connection to the surrounding salt marsh and estuaries has been cut off by a system of levees, road and railroad grades, and tide gates. We work hard to plan, design and implement functional restoration projects to improve the environment and expand the habitat of organisms such as Dungeness crab, rock fish, and salmonid species. These projects bring millions of dollars to our county in research, engineering and construction jobs. Successful restoration of the bay ecosystem will improve the health of our community and increase marine populations that translates to a stronger fishing economy.
As obvious as these connections seem, they are not obvious to everyone. That is why we have come forward to support Mike Wilson's re-election as Humboldt Bay District Commissioner.
Mike doesn't just speak of a healthy bay. He has first-hand knee-deep experience planning the environmental clean-up and restoration of tide lands on Indian Island and planning public access to the Ma-le'l Dunes. Mike is an environmental engineer who knows the value of the natural resource economy because he has worked in it. He understands it. Mike's environmental engineering background helps to insure that the water quality of the bay remains a high priority so that the ecological benefits are maintained and enhanced.
On the Humboldt Bay District he is a strong advocate for sound research and science, and projects that improve the health of our bay and directly improves the livelihood of families tied to it.
Please join us in supporting a candidate with the knowledge, experience, and track record for a balanced approach to bay management which harnesses the inexorable link between a healthy environment and healthy economy. Join us in re-electing Mike Wilson as your 3rd District Humboldt Bay District Commissioner.
Aldaron Laird, Environmental Planner
Ann King-Smith, Cultural Resources Specialist
Bill Kier, Fisheries Scientist
Bonnie Pryor, M.S., Geomorphologist
Darren Mierau, M.S. Fish Biologist
David Narum, Ph.D.
Dennis Halligan, Fisheries Biologist
Dr. William J. Trush, Senior Ecologist
Don Bremm, M.S. Fisheries Biologist
Don Allen, Restoration Specialist
Douglas Parkinson, B.S., Fisheries Biologist
Eileen Cashman, Ph.D., Professor
Ethan Bell, M.S., Aquatic Ecologist
Geoff M. Hales, M.S., P.G., Geologist
J. Rose Patenaude, P.E.,
Jay Stallman, M.S., Geologist/Geomorphologist
Jeff Anderson, M.S., P.E., Environmental Engineer
Jerry Rohde, Ethnogeography and History Consultant
Jud Ellinwood, Salmonid Conservation Advocate
Keith Barnard, M.S., Fish Biologist
Margaret Lang
Matt Smith, Restoration Specialist
Mike Foget, P.E., Sr. Environmental Engineer
Michael Love, P.E., Environmental Engineer
Patrick Higgins, Fish Biologist
Paul Hagen, Environmental Attorney
Pete Nelson, Ph.D., Senior Marine Ecologist
Randy Klein, M.S., Hydrologist
Randy Turner, Fish Biologist
Robert Gearheart, Ph.D.
Scott McBain, M.S.
Steve Salzman, P.E.
Sungnome Madrone, Watershed Management Specialist
Thomas R. Payne, M.S., Fish Biologist
Humboldt Bay is an ecological treasure and could become an economic engine for our region.
As scientists, restoration professionals, and engineers who conduct research and perform restoration work on the bay ecosystem, we understand the value of returning the bay to a strong, productive state. The implications are profound for our health, recreation, the economy and, of course, fish and wildlife in and around our bay waters.
For decades the Humboldt Bay's connection to the surrounding salt marsh and estuaries has been cut off by a system of levees, road and railroad grades, and tide gates. We work hard to plan, design and implement functional restoration projects to improve the environment and expand the habitat of organisms such as Dungeness crab, rock fish, and salmonid species. These projects bring millions of dollars to our county in research, engineering and construction jobs. Successful restoration of the bay ecosystem will improve the health of our community and increase marine populations that translates to a stronger fishing economy.
As obvious as these connections seem, they are not obvious to everyone. That is why we have come forward to support Mike Wilson's re-election as Humboldt Bay District Commissioner.
Mike doesn't just speak of a healthy bay. He has first-hand knee-deep experience planning the environmental clean-up and restoration of tide lands on Indian Island and planning public access to the Ma-le'l Dunes. Mike is an environmental engineer who knows the value of the natural resource economy because he has worked in it. He understands it. Mike's environmental engineering background helps to insure that the water quality of the bay remains a high priority so that the ecological benefits are maintained and enhanced.
On the Humboldt Bay District he is a strong advocate for sound research and science, and projects that improve the health of our bay and directly improves the livelihood of families tied to it.
Please join us in supporting a candidate with the knowledge, experience, and track record for a balanced approach to bay management which harnesses the inexorable link between a healthy environment and healthy economy. Join us in re-electing Mike Wilson as your 3rd District Humboldt Bay District Commissioner.
Aldaron Laird, Environmental Planner
Ann King-Smith, Cultural Resources Specialist
Bill Kier, Fisheries Scientist
Bonnie Pryor, M.S., Geomorphologist
Darren Mierau, M.S. Fish Biologist
David Narum, Ph.D.
Dennis Halligan, Fisheries Biologist
Dr. William J. Trush, Senior Ecologist
Don Bremm, M.S. Fisheries Biologist
Don Allen, Restoration Specialist
Douglas Parkinson, B.S., Fisheries Biologist
Eileen Cashman, Ph.D., Professor
Ethan Bell, M.S., Aquatic Ecologist
Geoff M. Hales, M.S., P.G., Geologist
J. Rose Patenaude, P.E.,
Jay Stallman, M.S., Geologist/Geomorphologist
Jeff Anderson, M.S., P.E., Environmental Engineer
Jerry Rohde, Ethnogeography and History Consultant
Jud Ellinwood, Salmonid Conservation Advocate
Keith Barnard, M.S., Fish Biologist
Margaret Lang
Matt Smith, Restoration Specialist
Mike Foget, P.E., Sr. Environmental Engineer
Michael Love, P.E., Environmental Engineer
Patrick Higgins, Fish Biologist
Paul Hagen, Environmental Attorney
Pete Nelson, Ph.D., Senior Marine Ecologist
Randy Klein, M.S., Hydrologist
Randy Turner, Fish Biologist
Robert Gearheart, Ph.D.
Scott McBain, M.S.
Steve Salzman, P.E.
Sungnome Madrone, Watershed Management Specialist
Thomas R. Payne, M.S., Fish Biologist
14 current and former Arcata councilmembers endorse Wilson (9-8-2009)
Humboldt Bay Commissioner Mike Wilson announced today that 14 current and former Arcata City councilmembers are supporting his bid for reelection to the Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation and Conservation District commission.
Wilson's supporters include current councilmembers Michael Winkler, Alex Stillman, Shane Brinton and Susan Ornelas, as well as former councilmembers Thea Gast, Carl Pellatz, Harmony Groves, Michael Machi, Connie Stewart, Jim Test, Elizabeth Conner, Bob Ornelas, Dave Meserve and Julie Fulkerson.
"As an advocate for sustainable transportation, I have been very impressed with Mike's performance in office. Mike brings a sensible and realistic viewpoint to the district." Winkler said. "He has been a strong and effective leader in regional efforts to establish short sea shipping as well as create a bicycle and pedestrian trail from Arcata to Eureka. We need to reelect him so that he can continue to move these important projects forward."
Fulkerson, a former Arcata mayor, former Humboldt County supervisor, current Trinidad councilmember and local business owner, said that she appreciates Wilson's forward-thinking approach to local economic development.
"Mike offers a new vision for sustainable economics around Humboldt Bay," Fulkerson said. "His professional environmental engineering and business experience bring practical skills and knowledge to the district, and he's offering exciting new ideas to diversify our economy and support the creation of lasting businesses that respect our environment."
"I am humbled by the endorsement of this diverse group of local leaders," said Wilson. "It really means a lot to me." For more information about Mike Wilson, visit www.votemikewilson.com.
Humboldt Bay Commissioner Mike Wilson announced today that 14 current and former Arcata City councilmembers are supporting his bid for reelection to the Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation and Conservation District commission.
Wilson's supporters include current councilmembers Michael Winkler, Alex Stillman, Shane Brinton and Susan Ornelas, as well as former councilmembers Thea Gast, Carl Pellatz, Harmony Groves, Michael Machi, Connie Stewart, Jim Test, Elizabeth Conner, Bob Ornelas, Dave Meserve and Julie Fulkerson.
"As an advocate for sustainable transportation, I have been very impressed with Mike's performance in office. Mike brings a sensible and realistic viewpoint to the district." Winkler said. "He has been a strong and effective leader in regional efforts to establish short sea shipping as well as create a bicycle and pedestrian trail from Arcata to Eureka. We need to reelect him so that he can continue to move these important projects forward."
Fulkerson, a former Arcata mayor, former Humboldt County supervisor, current Trinidad councilmember and local business owner, said that she appreciates Wilson's forward-thinking approach to local economic development.
"Mike offers a new vision for sustainable economics around Humboldt Bay," Fulkerson said. "His professional environmental engineering and business experience bring practical skills and knowledge to the district, and he's offering exciting new ideas to diversify our economy and support the creation of lasting businesses that respect our environment."
"I am humbled by the endorsement of this diverse group of local leaders," said Wilson. "It really means a lot to me." For more information about Mike Wilson, visit www.votemikewilson.com.
Berg supports Wilson reelection bid, emphasizes bay trail (8-27-2009)
Former North Coast Assemblywoman Patty Berg has endorsed Bay Commissioner Mike Wilson for reelection to the Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation and Conservation District Commission.
"Mike embodies the best of our new generation of hard-working local leaders," Berg said. "His commitment to the creation of a bicycle and pedestrian trail around the bay is commendable. A bay trail will be beneficial to our economy, to public health and to our overall quality of life. Mike has taken a leadership role in the ongoing effort to make this vision a reality."
Berg represented the North Coast in the state Assembly for six years, completing her tenure in 2008 due to term limits. She chaired the Aging and Long term Care Committee, the Budget Committee for Health and Human Services and the Joint Committee for Fisheries and Aquaculture. She was also the founding executive director of the Area Agency on Aging for 19 years.
Wilson, an environmental engineer and small business owner who was elected to the bay commission in 2005, thanked Berg for her endorsement.
"It is an honor to have the support of someone that has done so much for North Coast communities," Wilson said.
Former North Coast Assemblywoman Patty Berg has endorsed Bay Commissioner Mike Wilson for reelection to the Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation and Conservation District Commission.
"Mike embodies the best of our new generation of hard-working local leaders," Berg said. "His commitment to the creation of a bicycle and pedestrian trail around the bay is commendable. A bay trail will be beneficial to our economy, to public health and to our overall quality of life. Mike has taken a leadership role in the ongoing effort to make this vision a reality."
Berg represented the North Coast in the state Assembly for six years, completing her tenure in 2008 due to term limits. She chaired the Aging and Long term Care Committee, the Budget Committee for Health and Human Services and the Joint Committee for Fisheries and Aquaculture. She was also the founding executive director of the Area Agency on Aging for 19 years.
Wilson, an environmental engineer and small business owner who was elected to the bay commission in 2005, thanked Berg for her endorsement.
"It is an honor to have the support of someone that has done so much for North Coast communities," Wilson said.
Wilson praises Arcata's trail development progress (8-24-2009)
Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation and Conservation District Commissioner Mike Wilson praised the City of Arcata this week for its decision to move forward with the planning and design of a 3.9 mile bicycle and pedestrian trail from Sunset Avenue to Bracut along the railroad right-of-way at the edge of Humboldt Bay.
Wilson, who is seeking reelection this November, made his comments in response to the Arcata City Council's unanimous decision last week to award a contract to Winzler and Kelly for completion of the planning phase of the project.
"It has been a pleasure to work with Arcata and other interested parties to turn the northern part of an Arcata-Eureka Trail from vision into reality," Wilson said. "For several years, representatives of governmental bodies and community groups have met and worked together on this. Consensus building, compromise and hard work got us to this point."
The planning, design and permitting of the project are being funded by a $1,065,000 grant from the California Coastal Conservancy. The request for funding was a culmination of a several year planning process funded by the National Park Service that included representatives of many agencies and groups including the City of Arcata, the City of Eureka, the County of Humboldt, the Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation and Conservation District, the Coastal Commission, the North Coast Railroad Authority, California Department of Transportation, the Timber Heritage Association, Green Wheels and the Humboldt Bay Bicycle Commuters Association.
Scott Kelly, president of the Humboldt Bay Bicycle Commuters Association, was impressed by the progress made by local government representatives, which he said Wilson helped to facilitate.
"Mike was a strong advocate for a workable solution," Kelly said. "He made sure that all options were on the table for discussion. His common sense ideas were integral to the process."
Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation and Conservation District Commissioner Mike Wilson praised the City of Arcata this week for its decision to move forward with the planning and design of a 3.9 mile bicycle and pedestrian trail from Sunset Avenue to Bracut along the railroad right-of-way at the edge of Humboldt Bay.
Wilson, who is seeking reelection this November, made his comments in response to the Arcata City Council's unanimous decision last week to award a contract to Winzler and Kelly for completion of the planning phase of the project.
"It has been a pleasure to work with Arcata and other interested parties to turn the northern part of an Arcata-Eureka Trail from vision into reality," Wilson said. "For several years, representatives of governmental bodies and community groups have met and worked together on this. Consensus building, compromise and hard work got us to this point."
The planning, design and permitting of the project are being funded by a $1,065,000 grant from the California Coastal Conservancy. The request for funding was a culmination of a several year planning process funded by the National Park Service that included representatives of many agencies and groups including the City of Arcata, the City of Eureka, the County of Humboldt, the Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation and Conservation District, the Coastal Commission, the North Coast Railroad Authority, California Department of Transportation, the Timber Heritage Association, Green Wheels and the Humboldt Bay Bicycle Commuters Association.
Scott Kelly, president of the Humboldt Bay Bicycle Commuters Association, was impressed by the progress made by local government representatives, which he said Wilson helped to facilitate.
"Mike was a strong advocate for a workable solution," Kelly said. "He made sure that all options were on the table for discussion. His common sense ideas were integral to the process."
Wilson announced re-election bid
Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation and Conservation District Commissioner Mike Wilson announced today that he will seek a second term on the commission.
"It is a great honor to serve the people of this community," Wilson said. "I was elected to bring a new vision and real balance to the district. That's what people demanded and it's exactly what I've been doing for the last four years."
Wilson, an environmental engineer, businessperson and recreational fisherman, was elected to the bay district in 2005, defeating the incumbent with almost 60 percent of the vote.
During his time in office, he has advocated for sustainable economic development, environmental restoration projects and a bay-side trail connecting Arcata and Eureka.
Earlier this year, Wilson was the driving force behind the creation of the bay district's Economic Development Committee. He has vowed to continue his efforts to promote short sea shipping, fishing and mariculture, and the development of marine-oriented light industries.
Wilson's candidacy has attracted numerous supporters, including local businessperson and Vice Mayor of Arcata Alex Stillman and HSU Environmental Engineering Professor Bob Gearheart. They are serving as honorary co-chairs for Wilson's reelection bid.
"It takes energy and perseverance to plan for recreational facilities and the industries that will best utilize Humboldt Bay's resources," Stillman said. "Mike has those qualities and the background in engineering and business to achieve these goals in an environmentally sensitive manner."
Gearheart agreed, stating that a realistic plan for economic development requires an understanding of environmental factors and a commitment to sustainability.
"Mike's engineering expertise allows him to approach projects from a technical, environmental and economic standpoint with an eye toward sustainability," Gearheart said. "I am impressed with his commitment to thoroughly supporting and promoting locally developed businesses and recreational facilities that depend upon our bay. His professional planning experience and in-depth understanding of the bay's ecosystem is also a great asset to the board."
Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation and Conservation District Commissioner Mike Wilson announced today that he will seek a second term on the commission.
"It is a great honor to serve the people of this community," Wilson said. "I was elected to bring a new vision and real balance to the district. That's what people demanded and it's exactly what I've been doing for the last four years."
Wilson, an environmental engineer, businessperson and recreational fisherman, was elected to the bay district in 2005, defeating the incumbent with almost 60 percent of the vote.
During his time in office, he has advocated for sustainable economic development, environmental restoration projects and a bay-side trail connecting Arcata and Eureka.
Earlier this year, Wilson was the driving force behind the creation of the bay district's Economic Development Committee. He has vowed to continue his efforts to promote short sea shipping, fishing and mariculture, and the development of marine-oriented light industries.
Wilson's candidacy has attracted numerous supporters, including local businessperson and Vice Mayor of Arcata Alex Stillman and HSU Environmental Engineering Professor Bob Gearheart. They are serving as honorary co-chairs for Wilson's reelection bid.
"It takes energy and perseverance to plan for recreational facilities and the industries that will best utilize Humboldt Bay's resources," Stillman said. "Mike has those qualities and the background in engineering and business to achieve these goals in an environmentally sensitive manner."
Gearheart agreed, stating that a realistic plan for economic development requires an understanding of environmental factors and a commitment to sustainability.
"Mike's engineering expertise allows him to approach projects from a technical, environmental and economic standpoint with an eye toward sustainability," Gearheart said. "I am impressed with his commitment to thoroughly supporting and promoting locally developed businesses and recreational facilities that depend upon our bay. His professional planning experience and in-depth understanding of the bay's ecosystem is also a great asset to the board."