Gibson challenges for supervisor

Joe Gibson Joe Gibson calls himself a unity builder. The candidate for Ventura County Supervisor 2nd District believes in dialogue when difficult issues arise, something he says will serve him well if he's elected on June 6.

"Don't tell me it says we can't do it," Gibson said. "Let's find ways to do things."

This is not the first time Gibson, 51, has run against Parks. In 2000, he unsuccessfully challenged her for a seat on the Thousand Oaks City Council.

Although he's concerned with the environment, Gibson says he also understands the importance of supporting business, something he claims Parks doesn't do.

Gibson is serving his second term as chair of the Conejo Recreation & Park District (CRPD).

Gibson says his life changed about 10 years ago when he became ill. Forced to stop working during the long recovery period, he credits the community with getting him through that difficult time. Not content with sitting at home watching soap operas, Gibson directed his energy toward volunteer work for the Rotary Club of Thousand Oaks, YMCA, Boys & Girls Club and the CRPD, among others.

"After I felt well I realized what I wanted to do with my life," Gibson said. "The community was there when I needed it and I want to give back."

Gibson's concerns include transportation problems in the area, funding challenges, public safety hiring needs and communication between the county and municipalities.

East Ventura County gets short shrift from the county when it comes to funding, according to Gibson. The western part of the county gets a higher level of service, he says.

"We have areas in the East County that are not affluent. We have our problems," Gibson said. "It's not (Thousand Oaks') job to pick up those areas outside of its jurisdiction."

Gibson is concerned about a lack of police officers serving the area. The situation is so bad that the sheriff is preparing to close the East County Jail, according to Gibson. Deputies are working too much overtime, salary levels have not increased and the pension program is significantly underfunded.

He cites poor management practices as the problem, as well as lack of communication on the part of Parks.

"I may not like your politics but I'm your representative," Gibson said. "Let's find out what needs to get done and get it done."

Gibson has been endorsed by four of the five Thousand Oaks city council members.

"An olive branch needs to be extended," he said.

Gibson realizes that the race will be a tough one given the name recognition that Parks enjoys. But he also encounters many supporters when he's out on the street campaigning.

"People thank me for running and say, 'She's Linda Parks but you are 'parks,''" Gibson said.

Gibson earned an environmental degree from Indiana University.