District 2 Supervisor Candidates Outline Visions for Sierra County

SIERRA COUNTY — In California’s June 2 primary election, voters in Sierra County’s second district will be asked to select a new supervisor after incumbent Lila Heuer announced she would be stepping down. The district is the largest in the county by area, encompassing Sierra City and the Sierra County portion of Lakes Basin, and stretching eastward, south of Sierraville and Loyalton, to Stampede Reservoir, Verdi, and the Nevada border. The three candidates on the ballot for the position were asked by The Mountain Messenger to provide a statement introducing themselves and their campaigns to voters. The following are their responses.

Bryan Davey

My name is Bryan Davey and I am seeking your support of my candidacy for County Supervisor-District 2. You will soon receive your Official Ballot and it would be an honor to receive your vote. I was employed by Chevron Research until my wife Mary and I moved our family to Sierra County in 2004 so that I could serve as Deputy Sheriff. In 2007 I accepted a Transportation Engineering position with the County and was ultimately appointed Director of Transportation by the Board of Supervisors serving until retirement in 2025. I am uniquely qualified for this public office based on my professional experience and my volunteer community service. Sierra City is our home. Our son graduated from Downieville School in 2019, enlisted in the Navy, and is now raising his new family. I served as Fire Chief for Sierra City for 11 years and have dedicated myself to community service and supporting our local nonprofits.

I love the rural nature and culture of Sierra County and will support and protect Sierra County. I believe the 22 years of experience in County government puts me in the best position to be an extremely effective Supervisor on day one. I will be your full time County Supervisor, will always be accessible, and will work together with the full Board to effectively administer our local government. I have a deep understanding and appreciation for Sierra County and District Two and I have excellent working relationships with many of the outside agencies and organizations that we must work with in local government. I have demonstrated my commitment to service for the communities of District 2 and all of Sierra County over the years through volunteer efforts and participation in community activities. I look forward to helping to maintain an efficient and fiscally responsible system of governance while pushing back against the “one-size fits all” policies and mandates coming from the State and Federal governments. These don’t make sense in Sierra County and are not fiscally reasonable for the people of Sierra County. All this combined with my love for Sierra County will make it a privilege for me to represent you.

Please track the progress of my election campaign at district2bdavey.org.

Sonya Z. Meline

Sierra County is facing real challenges, housing constraints, economic pressure, population loss, and increasing concerns around fire safety. In a district as geographically spread out as ours, these issues don’t look the same from one community to the next.

I work on many of these challenges every day, running and contributing to local businesses and nonprofits, and supporting tourism that sustains our economy, and I am ready to do more.

In a place like Sierra County, these challenges are layered. Our economy is largely seasonal, making it harder for working families to rely on consistent, year-round income. Limited housing and workforce shortages make it difficult for small businesses, schools, and emergency services to retain the people we depend on.

Fire safety isn’t just about prevention, it’s about infrastructure, coordination, and making sure our systems work when it matters most.

I’m running for Sierra County Supervisor because I believe my experience can help move us forward in practical ways.

For me, this is about keeping Sierra County livable – for the people who call it home. I want our son to have a place to return to one day: a county that’s safe, thriving, and full of opportunity.

My family and I moved to Downieville seven years ago and recently made the Sierra City area our home. We chose to be here, to invest here, and build a life here.

Over time, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how interconnected these challenges are. There are no quick fixes, but there are practical steps we can take together. That includes supporting sustainable economic opportunities while protecting what makes this place special.

My background is rooted in service. I served in the United States Navy in the Judge Advocate General (JAG) Office. I am a foster and adoptive parent. My career in cybersecurity and grant programs brings a perspective that is often missing in rural communities. I continue to serve as a small business owner and leader in local boards and nonprofit organizations.

I believe in showing up, doing the work, and putting the needs of the community first.

Sierra County has always been a place where people step up for one another. I’m running to continue that tradition - and to help move our county forward.

District 2 voters, I would be honored to represent your voice and earn your vote for Supervisor in the June 2 Primary Election.

Please reach out to me to connect: info@sonyameline.com | 530.289.6070 | SonyaMeline.com

Michael L. Ostrom

Candidate for Sierra County Supervisor, District 2

I am Michael L. Ostrom, and I am seeking your support for Sierra County Supervisor. My candidacy is defined by a lifelong love for our land, a career of proven public leadership, and an unwavering commitment to serving as a government watchdog for the taxpayers of Sierra County.

A Lifelong Connection to the Land

I grew up in these mountains, and my character was forged in our canyons and streams. From an early age, I spent my days fishing our waters and hunting our woods—experiences that gave me a firsthand appreciation for Sierra County’s unique heritage. I am not just running for office; I am running to protect the home that raised me, ensuring our outdoor traditions and rural way of life are preserved for generations to come.

Your Watchdog in County Government

I believe that holding public office is a matter of public trust. Throughout my career, I have proven myself to be a vigilant watchdog, ensuring that government stays transparent, efficient, and accountable to the people:

• Financial Integrity: I have a zero-tolerance policy for wasteful spending. I believe every tax dollar should be treated with the same care as a personal paycheck.

• Transparency: I am committed to pulling back the curtain on government processes, ensuring that decisions are made in the light of day and that residents are always informed.

• Accountability: I do not believe in “business as usual.” I will ask tough questions, challenge the status quo, and ensure that county departments are delivering the high-quality service our residents deserve.

Proven Executive Experience

I bring a wealth of “boots-on-the-ground” governance experience to the Board of Supervisors:

• Linden County Water District (Vice President & President of the Board): For more than a decade, in these elected roles, I managed vital infrastructure and complex budgets, prioritizing fiscal health and reliable service for every ratepayer.

• Municipal Advisory Council (Elected Advisor): Serving as an advisor to the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors, I functioned as a bridge between the community and the county, successfully advocating for local needs in public safety and land use.

“Sierra County deserves a supervisor who knows the land, understands the law, and watches the bottom line. I have the experience of leading and the backbone to stand up for our taxpayers.”