Parks, fire services top OPUD election issues

One incumbent appeared to be on his way out, but another appeared poised to retain his seat on the Olivehurst Public Utility District board of directors.

Challenger Dennise Burbank was leading on Tuesday night over incumbent Mike Morrison for the director-at-large 1 seat.

Burbank, an Olivehurst insurance company business owner, said her top priorities would be looking for ways to implement her campaign promises.

"First, I'd like to take a look at everything and see exactly how I can best help my district," Burbank said late Tuesday. "But looking for grants for the fire department and looking for ways to help the parks are big priorities."

Morrison, who has been on the board since 2004, consistently declined to comment Tuesday about the campaign.

Incumbent Ronald Dougherty, a Plumas Lake resident elected to the board in 2008, was ahead of challenger John Beckett, a retired tow truck driver, in the director-at-large 2 seat.

Dougherty could not be reached for comment late Tuesday.

Recent cuts to parks and fire services sparked challenger campaigns in two of three races for the board of directors.

James Carpenter ran unopposed for the third open seat.

Both challengers campaigned to bolster funding for the parks, though both said they would seek creative approaches, including pursuing possible grant monies.

Directors cited cost increases and declining revenues when they voted to cut services.

CONTACT Rob Parsons at rparsons@appealdemocrat.com or 749-4785. Find him on Facebook at /ADcrimebeat or on Twitter at @ADcrimebeat.