michael ostrom

Friends, neighbors, and fellow residents of Sierra County,

My name is Michael Ostrom, and I am speaking today not just as a candidate for the Board of Supervisors, but as someone whose roots are buried deep in this Sierra soil. I have lived here from childhood to today. I grew up on these trails, I know the rhythm of our seasons, and I understand the unique challenges and the unmatched beauty of the place we call home. Because I’ve been here my whole life, I’ve seen what works, what’s changed, and where we are falling behind. I am running because I believe Sierra County deserves a future that respects our history while modernizing our infrastructure.

Public Safety and Essential Services

Our safety is non-negotiable. We need to ensure that when you call for help, it arrives swiftly and with the resources necessary to protect you.

Emergency Services: I will work to modernize our response systems and provide our first responders with the funding and equipment they need to cover our rugged terrain.

Sheriff Services: We must bolster our Sheriff’s Office, ensuring they have the staffing and support to maintain a consistent, helpful presence in every corner of the county.

Communication: It’s time we brought a local radio station back to our airwaves—not just for music and community news, but as a vital lifeline for emergency broadcasts and local connectivity.

Stewardship of the Land and Infrastructure

Living in the mountains means living with the reality of fire and the need for solid roads.

Green Waste Management: We need safe, effective, and accessible ways to handle excess green waste. I will advocate for streamlined removal programs and community chipping days to reduce fuel loads and protect our homes.

Gold Lake Road: Anyone who drives it knows it’s overdue for attention. I am committed to securing the state and federal grants needed to make Gold Lake Road the safe, smooth artery our tourism and locals deserve.

Code Enforcement: We must ensure our county remains beautiful and safe through fair, consistent code enforcement that holds property owners accountable while remaining neighborly. Reinvesting in Community and History Our social fabric is what makes Sierra County special. The Community Park: I want to see our park become the heartbeat of the county again. My plan includes new fencing for safety and the installation of pickleball, basketball, and volleyball courts. Let’s give our youth and our adults a place to play.

Historical Restoration: Our unincorporated areas are rich with history. I will support initiatives to restore and reinvigorate historical business sites, turning "what used to be" back into "what is"—providing jobs and preserving our heritage.

Supporting Our Seniors: Our seniors are the keepers of our history. I will fight for expanded programs and services—from transportation to social activities—to ensure they can age with dignity and support right here at home.

There will be a change in state leadership soon which could affect county budgets, and I have the experience that it will take to navigate budget allocations large or small. I am not a politician looking for a title I am a neighbor looking to get to work. I have been here since the beginning, and I want to make sure Sierra County remains a place where the next generation wants to stay, too. If you are satisfied with status quo, vote for one of my opponents. If you’re fed up and want real change, I’m your candidate. I will fight for you, listen to you, and deliver results that improve all our lives.
I ask for your support, your ideas, and your vote.Let’s build a safer, stronger, and more vibrant Sierra County together!