In the March 5 Primary election, Merced County District 4 incumbent Supervisor Lloyd Pareira will battle to keep his seat against two challengers — Dennis Brazil and Jim Soria.
District 4 encompasses the northwest part of Merced County and includes the communities of Stevinson, Hilmar, Dehli, Ballico and Cressey, among others.
Here’s a look at all three candidates:
Lloyd Pareira
Pareira, a seasoned dairyman turned public servant, is vying for reelection to represent District Four. With a diverse background in community service and governance, Pareira believes he brings a wealth of experience to the table.
Pareira currently serves as the Merced County Supervisor for District Four, a position he has held since January 2017. His resume includes roles such as a dairy herd improvement association board member, council member for various organizations, and a dedicated 19-year tenure on the Mercy River School District Board. Pareira's educational journey began at Merced High School, followed by Merced College, where he graduated with a degree in animal science. He later earned a Bachelor of Science in dairy science from Cal Poly in 1984.
“My background as a dairyman informs my perspective, complemented by extensive involvement in various boards and associations,” Pareira said. “Prior to my tenure as Supervisor, I dedicated 19 years to the Mercy River School District Board, advocating for educational excellence. Additionally, my commitment to community extends to roles such as serving on the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District and representing our county in the California Association of Rural Counties. I've also contributed significantly to addressing critical issues like homelessness through my involvement in the Merced County Continuum of Care. Moreover, my service on the Public Safety Board underscores my dedication to ensuring the well-being of our residents. From overseeing waste management contracts to chairing groundwater initiatives, my diverse portfolio reflects my steadfast commitment to advancing the interests of Merced County and its residents."
When asked about the primary challenges facing the District, Pareira highlighted public safety and infrastructure as top priorities. He emphasized the need to address staffing shortages within the Sheriff's Department and improve road quality throughout Merced County. Pareira's tenure has seen significant progress in infrastructure development, including increased road paving efforts and expedited permitting processes to spur economic growth.
"Public safety is paramount, with a pressing need to address staffing shortages within our Sheriff's Department,” Pareira said. “Collaborating with my colleagues, we're committed to rectifying this issue. Equally vital is the state of our roads; over the past seven years, we've made significant strides in road paving, surpassing previous records. As a 'nuts and bolts' advocate, infrastructure—bridges, roads—remains a top priority, alongside maintaining and upgrading the county's facilities.
“Upon taking office, I was alarmed by the backlog in permit processing, which hindered job creation,” Pareira said. “Working with dedicated staff, we implemented solutions that dramatically reduced processing times, ensuring a smoother pathway for economic growth.
“Homelessness is not just a professional concern but a personal one. With approximately 80% facing behavioral health challenges, I'm deeply invested in collaborative efforts to provide solutions,” Pareira said. “Last year's decrease in homelessness was a milestone, a result of years of dedication from county staff, community leaders, and organizations. While challenges persist, I remain optimistic about our ongoing efforts to address homelessness effectively."
Drawing from his extensive experience on the school board, Pareira emphasizes the importance of education in driving economic prosperity. He advocates for partnerships between educational institutions and workforce development programs to equip residents with essential skills for job opportunities. Additionally, Pareira's focus on streamlining the permitting process and fostering strategic partnerships has attracted businesses to Merced County, creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic growth.
Pareira then shifted to discussing economic prospects, stating, "The permitting process is crucial for attracting and retaining businesses in our county. That's why I've been actively involved in projects like the Castle airport redevelopment. For instance, our partnership with TRC Transportation Resource Center has led to the establishment of a vehicle testing program, attracting numerous companies to the area. Additionally, agreements with entities like Waymo and the Port of Los Angeles are opening up avenues for economic growth, creating job opportunities and facilitating freight transportation. These initiatives not only benefit our local economy but also pave the way for future developments, including air freight operations at Castle Air Force Base."
Pareira elaborated further on the economic impact of these initiatives, "The Castle airport redevelopment project, in particular, has immense potential to transform our region. By leveraging the available resources and infrastructure, such as the 200-acre site and the collaboration with TRC Transportation Resource Center, we have created an environment conducive to innovation and business growth. The influx of companies testing their vehicles at the site not only brings in revenue but also generates employment opportunities for our residents. Moreover, the agreements with Waymo and the Port of Los Angeles signify our commitment to fostering partnerships and exploring new avenues for economic development."
In discussing the broader implications of these initiatives, Pareira emphasized their role in positioning Merced County as a hub for innovation and economic prosperity. "As we continue to invest in projects like the Castle airport redevelopment, we are not only creating job opportunities in the short term but also laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth in the long run. By capitalizing on our strategic location and leveraging partnerships with key stakeholders, we are building a resilient economy that can withstand challenges and thrive in the ever-changing global landscape."
Pareira recognizes the crucial role of law enforcement agencies in maintaining community safety. He emphasizes the importance of adequate staffing and fair compensation for deputies while promoting collaboration between law enforcement and local communities. Pareira supports initiatives that facilitate dialogue and information sharing among law enforcement agencies to address emerging safety concerns effectively.
"Ensuring the safety of our communities requires a multifaceted approach, one that begins with addressing staffing shortages within our Sheriff's Department,” Pareira said. “As I've previously emphasized, our deputies are on the front lines, working tirelessly to uphold the law and protect our residents. By prioritizing adequate staffing and fair compensation, we not only bolster morale within law enforcement but also ensure the effective delivery of public safety services.
“Collaboration between law enforcement agencies and local communities is essential in addressing emerging safety concerns,” Pareira said. “Through proactive dialogue and engagement initiatives, we can bridge divides, build trust, and foster a sense of collective responsibility for community safety. As I've witnessed firsthand, initiatives such as the Merced County Continuum of Care bring together stakeholders from across the spectrum, including law enforcement, to address complex issues like homelessness.
“By prioritizing initiatives that promote transparency, accountability, and mutual respect, we can strengthen partnerships and enhance public safety outcomes. It's through these concerted efforts that we can create safer neighborhoods and cultivate a stronger sense of community cohesion in Merced County."
Pareira continued along with collaboration towards community safety his commitment to also addressing homelessness reflects both his professional and personal ethos. He underscores the importance of compassionate solutions and collaborative efforts with community leaders and organizations. Through coordinated initiatives, including the Merced County Continuum of Care, Pareira aims to provide support and resources to vulnerable populations while working towards sustainable solutions.
Dennis Brazil
Former Gustine mayor, Brazil is stepping forward as a candidate, bringing a robust background in community leadership and governance to the forefront. With a focus on addressing critical issues and advocating for effective solutions, Brazil shares his perspectives and priorities in an exclusive interview.
Brazil is currently retired and enjoying retirement. He has served as the Mayor of Gustine, which showed Brazil's dedication to public service and community engagement remains unwavering. A product of local education, Brazil attended Los Banos High School before pursuing further studies at UC Davis. His diverse career includes serving on various boards and committees, including the Westside Ambulance Board and the San Joaquin Valley Air District's EJAD Committee for Environmental Justice.
"I bring a wealth of experience to the table, having served as the former Mayor of Gustine, former City Council member, and current Board President of Westside Ambulance,” Brazil said. “Additionally, I've dedicated my time to serving on the San Joaquin Valley Air District and its Environmental Justice Committee, as well as being a founding board member of the 209 Merced Crimestoppers and a board member for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) advocating for children. My involvement extends to various community roles, including serving on the Airport Commission and actively participating in initiatives such as the Merced County Measure D campaign for road repair," Brazil remarked.
In addressing the primary challenges facing Merced County, Brazil underscores the urgency of bolstering public safety, enhancing county employee retention, safeguarding water resources, and fulfilling infrastructure promises. He emphasizes the need for proactive measures to address these pressing issues effectively.
"The foremost challenges confronting our district are multifaceted, reflecting the intricate issues that demand our immediate attention and proactive solutions,” Brazil said. “At the forefront lies the paramount concern of public safety, an enduring challenge exacerbated by persistent staffing shortages and resource inadequacies within our law enforcement agencies. Since 2016, the calls from our dedicated officers and officials have echoed a plea for adequate support, underscoring the urgent need to fortify our commitment to safeguarding our communities.
“The vexing issue of wage disparities and benefits discrepancies among county employees and neighboring jurisdictions has engendered a troubling cycle of turnover and attrition, jeopardizing the continuity and efficacy of essential public services,” Brazil continued. “This troubling trend not only imperils the livelihoods of our hardworking employees but also undermines the foundational pillars of equitable governance and workforce stability.
“In tandem with these pressing concerns, the preservation and equitable distribution of water resources emerge as pivotal imperatives for sustaining our agricultural heritage and supporting the needs of our urban centers. As stewards of our shared environment, we bear a collective responsibility to safeguard our precious waterways and aquifers, ensuring their equitable allocation and prudent management for the benefit of all.
“Misallocation and mismanagement of critical funds, exemplified by the diversion of Measure V resources earmarked for road repairs, epitomize the imperative for transparency, accountability, and fiduciary responsibility in our local governance structures,” Brazil said. “The breach of trust between elected officials and constituents underscores the exigency of restoring faith in our democratic processes and upholding the sanctity of our electoral mandates.
“In light of these formidable challenges, compounded by a palpable sense of disenchantment and disillusionment among our constituents, the clear call for effective leadership and principled stewardship resonates with heightened urgency. As elected leaders of the public trust, we must prioritize the common good above partisan interests, to champion transparency and accountability in all our endeavors, and to forge a path forward that uplifts and empowers every resident of Merced County.
“By fostering a culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and proactive problem-solving, we can surmount these challenges and realize our collective vision for a vibrant, resilient, and equitable future for all,” Brazil said.
“Turning our attention to economic prosperity, it's clear that a sound financial footing is essential for realizing our collective aspirations,” Brazil said. “Without a strategic plan in place, our dreams for the future remain nothing more than wishful thinking. We must be diligent stewards of our resources, investing wisely in initiatives that promote sustainable growth and shared prosperity for all members of our community.
“In essence, education and economic vitality are inextricably linked, forming the bedrock upon which our community's future rests,” Brazil said. “By fostering a culture of lifelong learning, embracing diversity, and prioritizing prudent fiscal management, we can chart a course toward a more prosperous and inclusive Merced County for generations to come."
Brazil emphasized the need for strategic investments in law enforcement to enhance community safety effectively. He calls for adequate staffing, fair compensation for deputies, and proactive collaboration between law enforcement agencies and local communities to address emerging safety concerns.
"Bolstering community safety is not just a priority but an imperative aspect of governance," Brazil asserted. "As a candidate for Merced County Supervisor, I am deeply committed to ensuring that our law enforcement agencies have the necessary resources and support to effectively safeguard our communities. This begins with strategic investments in law enforcement, including prioritizing adequate staffing levels and fair compensation for our dedicated deputies. By providing our law enforcement personnel with the tools and support they need, we can enhance their effectiveness in addressing emerging safety concerns and maintaining public trust.
“Proactive collaboration between law enforcement agencies and local communities is essential in addressing the complex and evolving nature of safety challenges. Through community engagement initiatives, dialogue forums, and partnership programs, we can foster a sense of shared responsibility and collective action in ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents. It's not just about reactive responses to incidents but about proactive measures that prevent crime, address root causes, and build resilient communities.
Resource allocation and collaboration, I also recognize the importance of adopting innovative approaches to law enforcement, such as community policing, restorative justice programs, and mental health crisis intervention strategies,” Brazil said. “By embracing these holistic approaches, we can address the underlying factors contributing to crime and social disorder, while also promoting fairness, equity, and justice in our communities.
Jim Soria
Soria brings a wealth of experience in law enforcement and public safety to the table.
He currently serves as a campus safety officer and safety officer for Modesto Junior College. With a background that includes serving as a council member and mayor for the city of Livingston, as well as involvement in mosquito abatement, Soria believes he brings a multifaceted perspective to the challenges facing Merced County.
According to Soria, the top priorities for the District include public safety and road maintenance. Concerns about road conditions resonate with many residents, as Soria notes the hazardous state of some roads and the need for timely maintenance to ensure safety for all travelers.
“Having spent more than two decades in law enforcement, I've come to realize the profound impact of community engagement,” Soria said. “It's not just about patrolling the streets; it's about being present, establishing connections, and fostering trust among residents. Back in the day, we used to walk the beat, greet shop owners, and chat with folks on their front porches. Those interactions weren't just about gathering information; they were about showing people that law enforcement was there for them, ready to listen and respond to their needs.
“This approach isn't just nostalgic; it's practical,” Soria continued. “By being visible and accessible, officers can gain valuable insights into local issues, spot potential problems before they escalate, and build partnerships with community members that enhance public safety efforts. When people feel comfortable talking to law enforcement, they're more likely to report crimes, share information, and work collaboratively to address concerns.
“But it's not just about walking the beat; it's about leveraging technology and data to enhance policing strategies. Today, we have tools like predictive analytics and real-time crime mapping that can help law enforcement agencies deploy resources more effectively, target high-crime areas, and prevent criminal activity. By combining traditional community policing methods with modern technology, we can create a more proactive and responsive approach to law enforcement that meets the needs of our diverse communities.
“It’s also crucial to invest in support services that complement traditional law enforcement efforts,” Soria said. “Community service officers, for example, can handle non-emergency calls, freeing up sworn officers to focus on more pressing issues. Similarly, expanding the ranks of reserve officers can provide additional manpower during times of need without straining department budgets.“
“My vision for Merced County is one of opportunity, safety, and prosperity,” Soria said. “By investing in our youth, prioritizing public safety, and promoting economic development, we can build a brighter future for all residents."
Soria's background in law enforcement informs his approach to addressing public safety concerns. He emphasizes the importance of community policing and fostering positive relationships between law enforcement agencies and local residents. Additionally, Soria suggests investing in support personnel, such as community service officers and reserve officers, to improve response times and enhance overall effectiveness.
"Collaboration and community engagement are the cornerstones of effective law enforcement, drawing from my over two decades of experience in law enforcement, code enforcement, and public safety,” Soria said. “As someone who has been on the ground, walking the streets and fostering relationships with residents, I understand the value of proactive policing and community-oriented approaches.
“My training as a law enforcement officer emphasized the importance of engaging with the community, walking the beat, and building trust with residents. This hands-on approach not only helps gather valuable information but also strengthens the bond between law enforcement and the communities they serve. By being visible and accessible, officers can effectively address concerns and gather intelligence to combat crime.
“It is essential to prioritize the well-being of law enforcement personnel by ensuring fair compensation and support,” Soria continued. “Adequate pay and benefits are crucial for retaining experienced officers and reducing turnover rates. Investing in initiatives like community service officers and reserve officer programs can also alleviate the workload of sworn officers, allowing them to focus on critical tasks and improving response times.
“We need proactive measures such as maintaining competitive wages across all county departments and prudent budget management are essential for attracting and retaining qualified personnel. By valuing and investing in our workforce, we can ensure the delivery of quality public services while also fostering a sense of pride and commitment among employees.
Only by fostering collaboration, supporting law enforcement personnel, and investing in innovative solutions, we can enhance public safety and build stronger, more resilient communities for the future." Soria said.
