A Central Valley Leader Steps Forward Again
Candidate for District 4 Supervisor
Few public servants know Fresno County like Margaret Mims. After a 42-year law enforcement career—including 16 years as Fresno County sheriff—Mims is once again answering the call to serve, this time as a candidate for Fresno County District 4 Supervisor. In a wide-ranging interview on Ag Meter, Mims shared her personal journey, deep agricultural roots, and priorities for one of the most ag-centric districts in California.
An Unexpected Start and a Lifetime of Service
Mims’ path to law enforcement began unexpectedly in 1980, when a chance conversation at a police retirement dinner led her to apply for what would become her first job as a police officer in Kerman. She later joined the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, where she rose through the ranks and ultimately became sheriff. Looking back, Mims credits faith, timing, and opportunity for shaping a career dedicated to public service.
That same sense of duty, she says, is what motivated her to run for supervisor when District 4 opened up. Stretching from Coalinga to Orange Cove, the district includes nine incorporated cities and nine unincorporated communities, many of them deeply tied to agriculture. Mims emphasizes that she has driven nearly every road in the county and understands the unique needs of both rural and urban voters.
Agriculture, Water, and Common Sense Policy
Agriculture remains central to Mims’ platform. She notes that Fresno County’s crop production value exceeds $9 billion, making it the top ag-producing county in the world. While water policy can be complex—especially where state and federal regulations are involved—Mims believes strong local leadership and influence are essential.
She pushes back against overregulation, pointing out that farmers are among the region’s best conservationists. Drawing from personal experience picking grapes and working in cotton operations, Mims stresses that policymakers must understand how food actually gets from the field to the grocery store.
Immigration, Labor, and Accountability
Labor shortages and immigration reform were also key topics. Mims supports practical solutions that allow long-term agricultural workers—those who pay taxes, contribute to their communities, and obey the law—to gain legal status. She has previously carried these messages directly to Washington, D.C., advocating for reforms that protect both farmers and workers.
On fiscal responsibility, Mims says she would closely review the county budget to identify waste and ensure public funds are used to serve residents—not insiders. She also cautions that political battles between California and the federal government should never come at the expense of everyday citizens.
Why This Interview Matters
With endorsements from current supervisors and decades of experience navigating local, state, and federal systems, Mims believes she is prepared to lead District 4 with integrity, collaboration, and common sense.
👉 For the full conversation on agriculture, water, immigration, and Fresno County’s future, listeners are encouraged to hear the complete Ag Meter interview with Margaret Mims.