This opinion was contributed by Mary Lou Andrade as an individual, not in her capacity as current San Benito County Treasurer-Tax Collector-Public Administrator. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent BenitoLink or other affiliated contributors.

Greetings to all San Benito County residents. This election year I opted not to run for re-election to the elected office of Treasurer-Tax Collector-Public Administrator. I will have served the community a month short of 36 years when I complete the end of my seventh term this coming December. It has been a pleasure and an honor to serve you and I whole heartedly thank you for all your support throughout these years. It humbles me to look back at the number of times you have elected and re-elected me and the trust you have bestowed upon me. With much gratitude I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

As you may know, Melinda Casillas is running for the position now. I am endorsing her for the experience, knowledge, and integrity that she will bring to this office. I believe she will serve the county well. Though they both have degrees, Melinda stands apart from the other candidate in that she has worked in the trenches of San Benito County for the past 20 years and is doing so currently. She rolls up her sleeves to get work done and knows where and how to find the answers she needs to serve you well in the future. Please join me in helping her get elected June 5. She has the background, education and experience to step in.