Recently sworn in, new supervisor has his work cut out for him- and he knows it
By Sylvie Belmond belmond@theacorn.com

Peter Foy

Now that he's in office, County Supervisor Peter Foy intends to fulfill the promises he made during his campaign.

Foy, who defeated Jim Dantona by 895 votes in November's race, pledged to spend taxpayer money wisely, reduce the cost of government and keep residents safe. He also promised to support agriculture and work on behalf of the less fortunate.

While other supervisors praised the newcomer during Tuesday's board meeting for having done his homework, the political novice's bold conservative ideas are likely to encounter some resistance from his four fellow county leaders with more liberal viewpoints. The Simi Valley resident isn't naive about the situation.

"I know some of my proposals may get a cold reception. But it won't stop me from trying," Foy said in an interview.

The new supervisor said he will strive to increase public safety and to bring county government resources to the East County. He plans to create a taskforce to help make the rural portion of Highway 118 safer for motorists and wants to use technology to streamline government.

Foy's also promised to fight illegal immigration, minimizing county services provided to those who are undocumented.

"Ventura County residents want to preserve their quality of life, so we have to find new opportunities to save money, improve services and prioritize," he said.

The primary responsibility of government is to protect people, said Foy, a business owner who hopes to accomplish his goals in Ventura County during his first four-year term so that he doesn't have to run again.

Elected officials should go into office to fix things, not to make it a lifetime career, he said. Foy proposes a three-term limit for supervisors. After that, officials would have to take an eightyear hiatus before running again for a maximum of two terms.

Despite the obstacles he faces, Foy said he sees an opportunity to make constructive changes.

"It's a great time for us to make decisions because we're not constrained by financial pressures to cut budgets," Foy said.

Although counties are obliged to provide basic services to illegal immigrants because they must follow federal and state laws, they shouldn't do any more than what is absolutely required, Foy said. Everyone should receive medical care in an emergency, but preventive care is the responsibility of individuals, not the county, the insurance broker said.

Foy said the fact that he doesn't have a political background gives him a clear perspective, enabling him to understand what citizens have to deal with when they face government agencies and rules.

No background also means other supervisors aren't sure what to expect, said County Supervisor Linda Parks. She represents the 2nd District, which includes Thousand Oaks and Oak Park.

"Peter has no previous background or experience in government, so he brings a completely blank slate and his own opinions on how government functions," Parks said. "It will be interesting to see how he interacts with others, what he brings forward and what he fights for."

Both Foy and Parks agree that county services should be more readily available to East County residents through local government office outlets. The two also agree on public safety.

"Law enforcement is where most of the money goes," Parks said.

But the two supervisors are not likely to agree on landuse matters. Parks is an openspace proponent, while Foy is more business-oriented and supports the rights of landowners.