Rio Dell Mayor appointed by Newsom to Seismic Safety Commission

California Governor Gavin Newsom made another appointment from Humboldt.

Newsom Press Release:

Debra Garnes, 61, of Rio Dell, has been appointed to the Alfred E. Alquist Seismic Safety Commission. Garnes has been Mayor of the City of Rio Dell since 2019. 

She held several positions at the Rancho Seco Nuclear Generating Station in the Sacramento Municipal Utility District from 1990 to 2002 and from 1988 to 1989, including Hazardous Materials Technician and Specialist, Hazardous Materials First Responder, Asbestos and Lead Decommissioning Technician and Senior Utility Clerk and Associate. She was an Operational and Certified First Response Instructor from 2001 to 2002. Garnes was Fleet Payroll Supervisor at KLLM Transport Services from 1989 to 1990. She was a U.S. Navy Petty Officer Second Class, Gunner’s Mate Guns (GMG2) for the U.S. Navy from 1981 to 1985. This position requires Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100 per diem. Garnes is a Democrat.

Rio Dell Press Release (August 27):

On Thursday,  August  26, 2021 Governor Newsom’s office issued a  press release announcing the appointment of Rio Dell Mayor Debra Garnes to  the State’s Seismic Safety Commission. The Commission  works  to  reduce the  risk that earthquakes pose to lives, livelihood and  infrastructure. 

“I  am  truly honored  to be  appointed by  Gov. Gavin Newsom to the  Alfred E. Alquist Seismic Safety Commission.” Mayor Garnes Stated. “I will do  my utmost to carry out  the duties of  a commission created solely  to advance earthquake safety.” 

Former Mayor and current  Councilmember Julie Woodall stated, “We’re all so  proud of  Debra  and she’s  been a  great Mayor, probably one of  the  better  Mayors we’ve had in  my opinion. She’s personable, represents Rio Dell well and is  a great choice  for  the position.”