Paid for by Meline for Supervisor 2026
MEET SONYA
Sonya Z. Meline’s story is a Sierra County story.
Sonya Z. Meline – Candidate Statement:
Sierra County is facing real challenges, housing constraints, economic pressure, population loss, and increasing concerns around fire safety. In a district as geographically spread out as ours, these issues don’t look the same from one community to the next.
I work on many of these challenges every day, running and contributing to local businesses and nonprofits, and supporting tourism that sustains our economy, and I am ready to do more.
In a place like Sierra County, these challenges are layered. Our economy is largely seasonal, making it harder for working families to rely on consistent, year-round income. Limited housing and workforce shortages make it difficult for small businesses, schools, and emergency services to retain the people we depend on.
Fire safety isn’t just about prevention, it’s about infrastructure, coordination, and making sure our systems work when it matters most.
I’m running for Sierra County Supervisor because I believe my experience can help move us forward in practical ways.
For me, this is about keeping Sierra County livable – for the people who call it home. I want our son to have a place to return to one day: a county that’s safe, thriving, and full of opportunity.
My family and I moved to Downieville seven years ago and recently made the Sierra City area our home. We chose to be here, to invest here, and build a life here.
Over time, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how interconnected these challenges are. There are no quick fixes, but there are practical steps we can take together. That includes supporting sustainable economic opportunities while protecting what makes this place special.
My background is rooted in service. I served in the United States Navy in the Judge Advocate General (JAG) Office. I am a foster and adoptive parent. My career in cybersecurity and grant programs brings a perspective that is often missing in rural communities. I continue to serve as a small business owner and leader in local boards and nonprofit organizations.
I believe in showing up, doing the work, and putting the needs of the community first.
Sierra County has always been a place where people step up for one another. I’m running to continue that tradition - and to help move our county forward.
District 2 voters, I would be honored to represent your voice and earn your vote for Supervisor in the June 2 Primary Election.
Please reach out to me to connect:
info@sonyameline.com | 530.289.6070 | SonyaMeline.com
Experience & Accomplishments
Sonya Meline brings a unique combination of real-world leadership, community service, and proven results to Sierra County - grounded in both local involvement and national-level executive experience.
Served in the United States Navy (JAG Office), supporting legal operations, investigations, and official proceedings – building a strong foundation in accountability, structure, and public service. Secured state grant funding, including a $13,500 award from the California Department of Food and Agriculture to support a Sierra County small business. Served as a board member of Sierra Frontier Medical Resources, supporting funding and long-term sustainability for emergency medical services in Western Sierra County. Elected to the Sierra County Chamber of Commerce Board, supporting county-wide economic initiatives including tourism strategy, marketing programs, and development of new digital infrastructure such as a county-wide website. Founder of the Sierra County Visitors Bureau, leading tourism that supports local economic development to increase revenue and visibility. Purchased and renovated three hospitality-focused properties contributing to Sierra County’s economic activity and employment. Founded and supported multiple community and economic initiatives supporting tourism, events, and small business revitalization efforts. Led response and recovery efforts for 20+ ransomware and data breach incidents, helping healthcare organizations and public sector entities – including city and state government agencies – navigate active cyber emergencies, coordinate response teams, and restore operations. Turned around a struggling healthcare organization (Physicians DataTrust), restoring profitability within one year through operational restructuring, leadership alignment, and improved accountability. Built national partnerships and generated millions in recurring revenue as a technology executive with organizations including Effortless Office and Blue Team Alpha, translating complex strategies into measurable growth
Community Leadership & Board Service
Sonya is actively involved in Sierra County through hands-on leadership roles in multiple organizations:
Sierra Frontier Medical Resources (SFMR) – Board Member. Sierra County Chamber of Commerce – Board Member & Visitors Bureau Chair. Downieville Fire Auxiliary – President of the Board. Downieville Improvement Group (DIG) – Secretary of the Board. Sierra County Visitors Bureau – Founder & Past President. Downieville Veterans Committee – Lead Coordinator, Annual Sierra County Veterans Day Ceremony
