I realize most political letters start with a "why I'm voting for...” but mine begins on the flip side. I am opposed to Kris Casto joining our BOS.

Many residents may remember the downtown parking controversy that took place a few years ago. I was very much behind the BOS and Planning Department's talk of way-finding signs along the highway for businesses on side streets. After quite a while we were just being pacified by the BOS so to attract traffic down in my direction I parked my vehicle, with vinyl advertising, along the highway. It was in different spots daily and completely legal as per the CHP. There were complaints to the county, CHP and Planning from mostly anonymous callers. The CHP came to me eventually and asked how they could get the correct info to the merchants regarding what was legal, everyone's rights, etc... and I suggested the Downtown Merchant meeting.

Now here is where I am going to skip ahead to what this has to do with Kris Casto. The details of this meeting are not important but the PROCESS is what I want to share. This particular meeting had approximately 60 people attending. Mrs. Casto, who had never spoken to me regarding the parking issue, headed this meeting and besides the 2 CHP officers attending there were also 2 Sheriff Deputies, 1 county Planner, 3 Cal Trans representatives, 2 BOS and she also PERSONALLY brought in Ed Johnson, a local mediator and personal acquaintance of hers. A local reporter was asked to "not record the meeting" as well.  Can you say ambush? The premeditation of this onslaught was unethical.  I was literally against a wall with a small but loud group of people pointing/screaming at me. There was no working together or 'mediating' going on.

The CHP made everyone aware I had a legal right to park on the highway and I explained I was utilizing my freedoms and constitutional right to make a point (for the benefit of all of us downtown merchants) to our representatives.  Casto wasn't concerned with my opinion as a fellow small business owner or my constitutional rights. What she brought to the table that day was a sneak attack. This is the underhandedness I experienced. If she doesn't like what you are doing she may take to bullying and intimidating with no concern for your 14th amendment right. People engaging in bully-like behaviors will use their strength, finances, popularity or power to harm, control or manipulate. They target people who are weaker for various reasons and they DO NOT do things by accident. Kris Casto and many of her allies from that day regularly park in that same stretch of highway. She is a hypocrite and more.

This letter is not about the parking issue, but to make clear that one day you might be on the other side of an issue with Kris Casto. How do you want to be treated? With respect, consideration and fairness? How important are your rights? Their ethics? And whose clique will you fit into or fall out of? That's an important question in a small town. My opinion is Vote NO to Casto.


Amy Eaton
Mariposa, CA