The Lakeport Employees Association is pleased to join several community groups and concerned citizens in support of Measure Z.

Lakeport is the center of our community, with services, businesses and recreation opportunities that draw 30,000 people every day.

Measure Z will provide locally-controlled funds to help address local community priorities, such as:

• Paving and repairing streets and roads;
• Maintaining police responses to violent crimes;
• Maintaining police responses to property crimes, such as burglaries;
• Attracting and retaining quality police officers;
• Retaining existing companies and businesses in the city.

There are several economic challenges facing small communities across the state. Measure Z will ensure that vital services will not be lost or severely cut in Lakeport.

Manuel Martinez is president of the Lakeport Employees Association in Lakeport, Calif.