Steve Rasnick
My name is Steve Rasnick, and I’m running for re-election to the Bell Canyon Board. With over four decades of experience in business, including negotiating contracts for Fortune 500 brands and pioneering product placement in films like "Top Gun" and "Men in Black", I’ve built a career on solving complex problems, working collaboratively, and delivering results. These skills have been invaluable during my first year on the Board, where I’ve fought tirelessly to address the mismanagement and dysfunction caused by the current Board majority. I have no ties or relationships with developers or contractors in Bell Canyon.
During the past year, I’ve witnessed and opposed numerous troubling actions by the Board, including:
- Attempts to dismantle the Bell Canyon Volunteer Wildland Fire Department (BCVWFD) and the Fire Safety Committee.
- Questionable land deals, contractor relationships, attorney hires, and constant threats of lawsuits.
- Secret meetings, lack of financial transparency, and refusal to investigate breaches of duty by Board members.
- Personal vendettas, increased costs, and a lack of accountability.
Despite these challenges, I’ve worked to deliver real results for our community. Within my first two months on the Board, I negotiated a deal to purchase strength machines and secure a deep discount on cardio equipment rentals—saving the Canyon over $700,000 while ensuring warranties, maintenance, and insurance. While some Board members tried to hide these achievements, my focus has always been on delivering value to our community, not seeking credit.
As a Woolsey fire survivor who lost everything and rebuilt here, I understand the importance of preparedness and community support. That’s why I’m a strong advocate for the BCVWFD and CERT, which have been invaluable to our safety. The Board’s attempts to force out the BCVWFD under false pretenses are unacceptable. I fully support their efforts to install an emergency communication system at no cost to the Canyon and will continue to fight for their independence and success.
We need a change in leadership. My priorities for Bell Canyon are clear:
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Restoring Transparency and Accountability: End secret meetings, questionable deals, and personal vendettas. Ensure all decisions are made in the open and in the best interest of the community.
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Supporting Our Emergency Services: Protect and empower the BCVWFD and CERT, which are critical to our safety and property values.
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Improving Governance: Reduce the disproportionate power of the Board President, implement professional management practices, and ensure major repairs and contracts are handled at arm’s length.
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Revitalizing Community Life: Bring back the events and programs that once made Bell Canyon a vibrant, welcoming community—Snow Day, New Year’s Eve, Extravaganza, and more.
The path forward requires a Board that prioritizes the community over personal agendas. We must end the division, restore civility, and ensure Bell Canyon remains a place we’re proud to call home. Together, we can return our community to the thriving, friendly, and safe environment it once was.
I care deeply about Bell Canyon because I live here—and so should you. Let’s work together to build a brighter future for our community.
Contact
Contact me with any ideas and suggestions to keep improving our community.