In a recent City Council meeting held on March 12, 2024, the Calistoga Council discussed nominations for the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), a key body influencing regional transportation policies. The conversation highlighted the importance of local representation in transportation decisions, particularly for the Up Valley area, which has historically received less attention in public transportation planning.

Mayor Chris Canning proposed Supervisor-elect Amber Manfrey as a nominee for the MTC, citing her professional background with the UC Davis Institute for Transportation Studies and her expertise in the relationship between transportation and greenhouse gas emissions. However, Vice Mayor Lehi O’Leary suggested nominating Lisa Alessio, a seasoned council member with experience on the Napa County Board of Supervisors and the Napa Valley Transportation Authority. O’Leary emphasized the need for strong representation from Calistoga, advocating for a nominee with established connections and experience.

The council ultimately decided to submit both nominees, reflecting a collaborative approach to ensure that Calistoga's interests are represented in regional transportation discussions. Public comments during the meeting echoed the sentiment for local representation, with residents expressing concerns about the lack of attention to Up Valley transportation needs.

The decision to nominate two candidates aims to enhance Calistoga's voice in the MTC, ensuring that the community's unique transportation challenges are addressed. As the council moves forward, they remain committed to advocating for the needs of Calistoga residents in broader regional planning efforts.