Dublin San Ramon Services District Candidate Q&A: James Shand

San Ramon Patch has asked each candidate to fill out a questionnaire to give residents information about his or her background. See other elections coverage here.

What is the primary reason you are running for this office?

As a resident of Dublin and having a long-term interest in water use in the state, I decided to run for office as a way of giving back to the community and to have a say in local affairs.

What will be your single most important priority if you get elected? 

The highest priority I see over the next few years will be the reduction of water from Zone 7 to the district. This is due to the continuing misuse, waste and inadequate budgeting of this resource statewide which will have an enormous impact on cities, counties, agriculture and businesses.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

As a manufacturing supervisor with 20 years experience in a variety of industries, I have a solid technical background to understand the workings of the infrastructure of the district. I am familiar with budgeting and maintenance processes as well.

Where do you work and what is your job title? 

I am now retired.

Age and birthplace?

I am 63, born in Oakland, CA.

What are the names and ages of your children, if any?

Two daughters, Laura, 26 and Jennifer, 25.

Please list the schools and colleges you attended, the degrees you attained and when. 

St. Mary's College, Bachelor of Arts in Management, 1988.

Have you ever held an elected or appointed public office?

No.

Have you run before for an elected public office?

No.

About how much money do you expect to spend on your campaign, both total spending and personal?

Other than the candidate's statement fee, none.

Have you ever served in the military?

No.

Have you ever been convicted or charged with a crime other than a minor traffic violation?

No.

Have you or a business you owned or had principal interest in ever filed bankruptcy?

No.

How long have you lived in the district?

Since 1986.

What's your favorite thing about the district?

I find the monthly newsletter very informative.

What is the biggest problem in the district?

Not enough outreach to the public in order to better educate residents about the water crisis in the state.

Contact information:

Home phone, 925 833-9748 and e-mail, jamesshand@aol.com