Novato Chamber Announces Endorsements

The Novato Chamber of Commerce has announced that it's endorsing only one City Council candidate, despite four contenders and two available seats.

Denise Athas, a longtime Chamber of Commerce member and former Downtown Novato Business Association president, nabbed the endorsement, announced Friday.

“She is wise, frugal, honest, caring and diligent," said Jay Strauss, a chamber board member. "Denise knows what needs to be preserved and also where we must move forward. She has an exemplary track record on the City Council and deserves re-election”

As a 501c6, an IRS tax designation given to trade association, the Novato Chamber of Commerce is allowed to endorse candidates, propositions and ballot measures, said President Coy Smith. Asked about why only Athas was selected, Smith said that she was the only one whose positions are in line with the goals and mission of the organization.

He cited Mayor Pat Eklund's recent vote against using Measure F funds to market the Shop Local campaign and the bio-life science sector as one example. Athas voted in favor of the move.

The Chamber has also endorsed Gary Butler for the Novato Fire District Board of Directors.

“Gary Butler will bring fiscal and intellectual integrity to the Fire District Board,” said Strauss. “He is smart and frugal and is not afraid of facing up to challenges. Because he does not have a background in the department, Gary will be able to evaluate issues without either rose-colored glasses or inherent conflict.  We need someone with his skills and perspective on the Board.”

The chamber also gave a thumbs up to Kevin Johnson, a retired firefighter who has also worked in management.

Want to know more about the candidates? Check out our Elections Page which has many profiles of candidates running for office. Up next week: Novato Fire District Board.