Retired Sheriff Jim Thomas Seeks to Replace Solvang Councilmember Chris Djernaes

“What people are looking for is common sense, and someone who values the people and history of Solvang,” said former S.B. County sheriff Jim Thomas after announcing his intent to run for Solvang City Council should Chris Djernaes be removed from office in a forthcoming recall election.

Thomas, who has lived in the valley since 1990, retired as Santa Barbara County Sheriff in 2002. He has remained politically active since then, running unsuccessfully for county supervisor in 2002 and for sheriff again in 2006. Recently, he worked with Exxon as a consultant on the AERA East Cat Canyon Oil Field Redevelopment Project.