LEE STETSON Former Mariposa County District 1 Supervisor Lee Stetson wants his former job back. Stetson has announced his intent to run for the seat in the June, 2010, election.

“I have recently, and firmly, decided to thrown my ‘stetson’ in the ring for District 1 supervisor next year,” he said in a letter to poten- tial supporters. “I very much want to represent you in our district as the County faces its challenges ahead, and intend to campaign vigorously to earn that privilege.”

Stetson served Mariposa County in the District 1 position from 2002 to 2006. He says he is anxious to return to the post to complete some of the things that still await doing. “There are tremendous issues that need the spirited attention that I intend to give them,” he said in a brief interview on Monday.

Among those issues, Stetson belives that the National Park Services’ new comprehensive plan for Yosemite is key. He says the plan “will have significant impact on surrounding communities, particularly for Valley residents and our citizens in El Portal” as well as Foresta and Yosemite West.

Midpines, which also falls in District 1, is the next in line for a community plan. “There are a host of other challenges just ahead for the County and for District 1, and they need to be met with energy and enthusiasm,” Stetson said.

The candidate is already “working.” He has been attending board meetings, Midpines Advisory Committee meetings and will begin attending as many County, district and Park meetings as possible throughout the election process. Stetson said he has informed the incument, Brad Aborn, of his intentions.

Stetson formerly served on the board with Supervisors Janet Bibby and Lyle Turpin and says he has “an easy working relationship” with both. Supervisors Jim Allen and Kevin Cann are new to the board since Stetson last served. He says they bring to the management of the County “a new, high level of expertise and experience.”

Stetson says he will begin vigorously campaigning in January, but preparation for that campaign begins immediately. He is excited about the prospect of serving District 1 and Mariposa County again.

“I look forward to adding my qualifications with energy, enthusiasm and common sense,” Stetson said.