Napa Valley Power Struggle: The County Supervisor vs. Wine Executives

Belia Ramos, a Napa County supervisor, has found herself embroiled in a severe power struggle with members of the local wine industry. What started as a minor disagreement about policy escalated into a deeply personal conflict characterized by harassment, public scrutiny, and blame, particularly following the tragic suicide of a Farm Bureau executive, Ryan Klobas.

Ramos’s conflict with the Napa County Farm Bureau began six years ago, rooted in disputes over environmental policies such as the controversial Measure C, which aimed to strengthen regulations on vineyards. As tensions grew, Ramos became increasingly isolated within the local political community. The Farm Bureau distanced itself from her, influencing other key endorsements to shift away as well.

In early 2021, Ramos ignited controversy by receiving a COVID-19 vaccine without being on the priority list, leading to widespread calls for her resignation. This incident laid the groundwork for further criticism she faced amidst an ongoing custody battle with her ex-husband, Brian Bennett.

Ramos alleged that Klobas, the former executive director of the Farm Bureau, began to harass her, sending numerous texts that blurred the lines between their professional interactions and personal solicitations. Such unwanted attention escalated over the years, marked by increasing feelings of being monitored and followed.

After Klobas’s suicide, tensions between Ramos and the Napa wine community reached a peak. Friends turned hostile, with some even implying Ramos had indirectly contributed to Klobas’s death during a business event. This claim took a significant emotional toll on Ramos, who felt continually victimized.

Things took a dark turn when personal family court documents pertaining to her custody case were found stapled to trees around Napa. This act was not only an invasion of privacy but also a significant psychological burden for Ramos amidst her already tumultuous political life.

Despite the relentless challenges, including attempts to malign her character and question her competency as a leader, Ramos stood firm in her commitment to the community. She filed for a restraining order against one of her rivals, which brought temporary relief, though she faced considerable financial strain—over $40,000—attempting to seal her family court documents.

In early March 2024, after these intense events, Ramos won re-election to her third term, solidifying her position as a formidable political figure in Napa. She expressed her resilience, stating, “This didn’t break me. I’m sure beat up by it. But it didn’t break me.”

As she prepares to take her place as the longest-serving supervisor in Napa County, Ramos embodies both a story of perseverance and an ongoing struggle against the forces that seek to undermine her authority.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!