November 3, 2026 · Madera County General Election
Mel Barker for Madera County District 5 Supervisor
Charting the Course for District 5
Navy veteran. Mountain-area neighbor for more than 40 years. Small business owner. Mel is headed to the November ballot — and she's running to be a full-time, year-round voice for every community in District 5.
Ballots mail in early October. Vote by November 3.
The November Choice
A full-time supervisor with fresh energy for District 5
District 5 deserves a supervisor who is present, accessible, and all-in — at every board meeting, every community meeting, and every kitchen-table conversation from the valley to the mountains of the district.
Mel has spent four decades showing up for this community: in uniform, in business, and in volunteer service. Now she's asking for the chance to show up for you full-time.
The race continues in November. Every vote in District 5 will count — and Mel is asking for yours.
Learn more about MelThe Course Ahead
Mel's priorities for District 5
- Public Safety Safe communities are the foundation of a strong county. Public safety includes law enforcement, prosecution, wildfire preparedness, emergency medical response, and making sure every part of District 5 has access to the services residents rely on. Read the plan
- Roads & Infrastructure Roads are one of the most common concerns Mel hears from residents. Safe, reliable infrastructure is essential for emergency response, school transportation, commuting, tourism, business, and everyday life. Read the plan
- Cost of Living & Economic Vitality The county cannot control every cost families face, but local decisions still matter. County government influences fees, services, permitting, infrastructure, trash collection, maintenance districts, housing policy, and the overall business environment. Mel believes residents deserve careful oversight of taxpayer dollars and practical decisions that support working families, seniors, small businesses, and property owners. Read the plan
Trusted Voices
Neighbors who know Mel's work
I've seen firsthand Melanie's tireless commitment to our community. She gets things done, with honesty, compassion and strength. Melanie doesn't just talk about making a difference; she lives it every day.
Melanie is the right choice to make the changes we need in Madera County. She listens, gathers the facts and acts. She will bring about the change we need.
Every Community on the Chart
One district. Many home ports.
From the valley floor to the high country, District 5 is a string of communities that each deserve a seat at the table.
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Coarsegold · Yosemite Lakes Park · O'Neals
Growing foothill neighborhoods that need safe roads, reliable services, and a voice in county planning.
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Oakhurst
The mountain area's main street — small businesses, families, and the gateway to Yosemite.
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Bass Lake · North Fork · Ahwahnee
Mountain communities where wildfire readiness and insurance stability are kitchen-table issues.
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Tesoro Viejo & the valley communities
Young families building their future in Madera County's newest neighborhoods.
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Raymond
Ranching heritage and rural roads that can't be an afterthought.
Support the Campaign
Powered by District 5 neighbors
This campaign is funded by local people who want a full-time advocate on the Board of Supervisors. Every contribution stays right here in this race — outreach, signs, mailers, and gas money for a very large district.
Prefer to give by check? Visit the Get Involved page for details.