Lake County Pays Tribute to Brad Onorato
Onorato’s Loss is Deeply Felt by Many in Lake County
On September 24 and 25 of this year, flags on County offices and facilities were at half-staff in memory of Brad Onorato, a dedicated and steadfast advocate for Lake County, honoring his service and contributions to the community.
Paul Bradford “Brad” Onorato served as Deputy Chief of Staff to United States Congressman Mike Thompson. The Congressman shared a heartfelt statement (https://mikethompson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/congressman-thompson-statement-passing-brad-onorato-deputy-chief-staff) honoring Onorato’s passing, noting for the last 34 years, Onorato was a valued member of his team, “leaving behind a voice that will be impossible to fill.”
His passing is greatly felt by many across the County; there is no question, Brad is deeply missed. During their Regular Meeting on September 24, 2024, the Lake County Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to lower flags to half-staff in honor of Onorato. Supervisor Jessica Pyska expressed great sadness, sharing anecdotes that highlighted Onorato’s commitment to helping community members, calling him “[an unparalleled] champion for our District. He was always there, and so many of our community members have personal stories where Brad dropped everything to help them. [Congressman] Mike Thompson made a Facebook post Thursday evening, calling him family,” reflecting their close working relationship.
Supervisors Sabatier and Crandell affirmed, “No legislative staff person has done more in recent memory to ensure Lake County’s federal priorities were well understood, and advocate for resource allocations needed to carry them out, than Brad Onorato. Brad’s work and support of the Congressman’s information needs have been crucial to securing Community Project Funding that will facilitate meaningful progress in the coming years on the Armory Repurposing, Kelseyville Sidewalk, and Middle Creek Restoration Projects. Brad has been present at key moments in our County’s history, such as honoring key retirements of long-time Supervisors and staff, and groundbreaking ceremonies for major projects.”
Supervisors Sabatier and Crandell continued, “Perhaps more importantly than these more formal examples, Brad cared deeply about Lake County, and about the challenges county residents face in their day-to-day lives. He was very diligent in following up on constituent concerns, and ensuring responsive information could be obtained, and an appropriate resolution could be reached. Where those matters touched on federal concerns, he was highly proactive in seeing that federal government responsibilities were upheld. If an item was under local jurisdiction, Brad made sure the message got to the right people, followed up with consistency, and was also appropriately supportive of local authorities.”
District 1 Supervisor, Moke Simon added Onorato was also an advocate and “Representative for all of [Lake County’s] Tribes,” stating, “I want to acknowledge the work he has done for our federal partners, as well.”
The hearts of Lake County leaders remain with the Onorato family and Congressman Thompson’s team during this difficult time, as the community mourns a truly remarkable public servant.