The job of a Lake County Supervisor is not part-time. Rather it is a role that encompasses a huge variety of duties and a colossal commitment of time on the part of the person willing to take it on.

It takes an engaged and patient listener to all people and an understanding that it is not just about addressing the concerns of district constituents, but that of making decisions which affect the lives of all Lake County residents.

A supervisor is one of five elected to the board that acts as a governing body overseeing the operation of our county government. Therefore, one who chooses to apply for this role should have a general understanding of the workings of government and the budgets that drive each county department.

The job of supervisor requires a willingness to partner with county department heads to solve problems and to have an understanding of what each department can and cannot do.

It takes a person who has the time, ability and desire to address complex issues in order to be educated and adequately prepared at board meetings. And it requires a willingness to work as a team with other supervisors for the greater good and not for personal gain or agenda.

The job of supervisor in any district requires a full-time commitment to being available and on top of the issues that affect not just one district, but all five.

It takes a willingness to work with business and community groups toward improving the tools that support our people and drive our economy. It takes an open-minded listener to city council members and local officials in order to understand common needs and goals of our communities.

It requires a broad understanding of issues that involve law enforcement, public safety, public services, health care, transportation, the environment, our lake, the homeless, our business economy, land use, watershed issues, our educational system and so much more.

It takes someone with “life experience” who understands the hardships and struggles that the majority of our Lake County residents face every day; having empathy and understanding of those who fight just to get by. It takes someone with a lot of time to give and who can admit to not having the answer but assist with finding out who does.

I’ve known Martin Scheel for many years and have watched him suffer through the loss of his business due to an accident five years ago, only to bounce back as an effective city councilman and mayor; a tireless community volunteer; and a huge advocate for our fire recovery victims and for rebuilding the business economy in our county.

Martin has formed valuable connections with county and state leaders in an effort to better the future of Lake County. He has an impressive understanding of the workings of government and the issues affecting not only District 4, but all of us in Lake County.

I’ve personally watched Martin prepare himself for the role of supervisor for a very long time. He doesn’t make vague promises or offer gimmicks but offers realistic ideas and common sense plans to face the challenges ahead of us.

I would encourage voters to consider each candidate’s ability to add the rigorous demands of being an effective supervisor to their existing roles and responsibilities. The residents of District 4 deserve a candidate who can fill the role, and not just the position.

Melody De Leon lives in Lakeport, Calif.