One of Patterson's most outspoken leaders is about to take to the airwaves.
Councilwoman Annette Smith is in the process of putting together a radio show that will be heard on a low-watt local radio station and on the Internet each week.
The show, which hasn't been named yet, will begin airing Wednesday, Jan. 4 online at blogtalkradio.com and on the 100-watt Stanislaus County nonprofit radio station KQRP 106.1 F.M. out of Salida.
The show will air at 9 a.m. live online and on a recorded basis throughout the day weekdays on 106.1 F.M. thereafter.
Smith will pattern her show after the daily political talk show "The Morning Mayor" with former Modesto Mayor Carmen Sabatino, on which she serves as a frequent guest. However, she will focus on issues pertaining to the West Side.
"I enjoy the format. I don't feel confined," Smith said Thursday. "It is a new way for folks to reach me, and it's a format where I can express my opinion."
Smith said the show will focus on bringing awareness countywide to West Side issues.
"Policies driven by Stanislaus County are driven by the east side of the county," she said, pointing to the county's support for the construction of the proposed West Park business development in Crows Landing without providing roads and infrastructure to support it.
Issues on the West Side are unique because the region is largely rural with small towns, unlike the east side of the county, Smith said. As a result, there is a disconnect between the two regions of the county, she said.
Smith said she's been inspired by Sabatino's radio show, on which she has served as a regular guest for more than a year.
Sabatino said Thursday that Smith will attract both supporters and detractors to the show, and it should be welcomed.
"She's very outgoing and very vocal," he said. "I think she has her opinions, and this gives her a way to express that."
• Nick Rappley can be reached at 892-6187, ext. 31 or nick@pattersonirrigator.com.
