Gary Soiseth: Beekman a steadfast proponent of protecting our farmland

Hughson Mayor Matt Beekman is under intense pressure from most of our fellow mayors after a vote cast at the Stanislaus Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) on March 25. Because of his vote, Mayor Beekman might be voted off the commission tonight – not because of an illegal, immoral or unethical issue, but because he voted for a farmland preservation measure he believes will preserve high-quality farmland for years to come.

I appreciate his conviction and dedication to preserving farmland. Mayor Beekman’s LAFCO vote was based on logic, well-reasoned arguments and prudent judgment. Mayor Beekman took the entire region’s interests into consideration.

Turlock’s own Vice Mayor Amy Bublak voted against this measure as a LAFCO commissioner, yet one doesn’t hear her demanding that he be removed from the LAFCO board. I commend the Vice Mayor for her maturity as she respects Mayor Beekman’s right to serve on LAFCO despite their disagreement.

Mayor Beekman based his vote on what he knows to be true. He is a man of integrity and conviction, who not only votes his conscience but also votes on behalf of farmers and city residents alike.

The residents of Hughson should be proud of their steadfast leader. I know I am.

This story was originally published May 12, 2015 at 12:24 PM with the headline "Gary Soiseth: Beekman a steadfast proponent of protecting our farmland."