Turlock’s state, federal, and local representatives will come together March 20 for the Third Annual Turlock Government Night, offering constituents a chance to meet with officials in a town-hall setting.
The event is being organized by Stanislaus County Supervisor Vito Chiesa, who represents Turlock. Chiesa will host the event which he says ties into his longstanding efforts to bring accountability to elected officials.
“Government works best face-to-face,” Chiesa said. “It’s important that government leaders are accessible and listen to the public we serve. Government Night has become a tremendous vehicle for the public to meet with their elected officials and let their voice be heard.”
U.S. Rep. Jeff Denham (R-Turlock), State Assemblymember Kristen Olsen (R-Modesto), and Turlock Mayor John Lazar will be in attendance. Each will provide a few minutes of prepared comments, and will then answer audience questions.
“I confer regularly with Congressman Denham, Assemblymember Olsen and Mayor Lazar,” Chiesa said. “We discuss the issues of our area and work collectively to find solutions to the challenges we face. We have a strong working relationship between the layers of government here in Turlock. I want people to see that work in action and be part of the process.”
The night will kick off with opening remarks from California State University, Stanislaus President Joseph Sheley. His comments will mark the first time CSU Stanislaus has played host to Government Night; in 2011 the event filled the Turlock War Memorial in a standing-room only affair, and in 2012 a smaller crowd attended a meeting held at Medeiros Elementary School.
“I applaud Supervisor Chiesa for holding Government Night again this year,” Denham said. “This is an important opportunity for local residents to engage with their elected officials at all levels of government. I look forward to discussing ways to address our ongoing drought on the Federal and State levels, how we can work together to rein in out-of-control government spending and finding solutions to help create jobs in the Central Valley.”
Government Night will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. March 20 at CSU Stanislaus, in Mary Stuart Rogers Building Room 130.
Admission is free, but seating is limited due to the facility’s capacity. Advance RSVPs are suggested.
To RSVP, e-mail hatcherb@stancounty.com or call 209-525-6440.
