Island County Commissioner, District 3
I did a fair amount of work on these two candidates for the primary. I’m using what I posted then as the basis for this update for the General election. You can also scroll down to my notes from the 9-24-18 and 10-2-18 candidates’ nights. They reveal the candidates under a bit of stress and in front of a crowd.
I need to clear up some confusion. Island County, like most, has 3 County Commissioners, each representing their own district. Only the residents of the district vote for a commissioner in the primary. The general election, by contrast, is open to everyone in the county. This is the chance for all of us to weigh in on the District 3 commissioner’s race.
Rick Hannold, R, incumbent http://www.rickhannold.com/
rhannold@comcast.net
I’ve been watching Rick Hannold for the last 4 years and to say that I am underwhelmed would be a gross understatement.
Rick Hannold has concluded that the way to win votes is to claim that Whidbey Environmental Action Network supports Janet St Clair. While individuals involved with WEAN do support Janet St Clair, the organization, being a federal tax exempt organization, does not endorse candidates. While this was made clear by WEAN, Hannold failed to get the message. He believes his claim is a dog whistle for his far right constituents. Given that he does not believe that climate change is real or caused by humans, and given that WEAN is busting a gut and more to get the climate change message across to the public, along with the message of what we can do about it, there are some obvious differences.
I appreciate the work of the anonymous person who compiled stories from the Record about Hannold.
6-16-18 Planning Commissioner’s remarks reflect lack of empathy.
This was the statement by Hannold’s Plannning Commission appointees that people had to earn the right to live here, and those living in tents were making a lifestyle choice.
6-27-18 Hannold defends Planning Commissioner’s remarks.
The latest in a series of foot-in-mouth episodes involves Hannold’s appointment of Planning Commission members. Each County Commissioner appoints 3 Planning Commissioners from their district. Hannold chose to appoint 3 women who all believe that people should have to earn the right to live in Island County, and that people who live in tents in the woods do so as a lifestyle choice. After 2 years of work on an Affordable Housing plan, Hannold’s latest appointee torpedoed the whole thing – and Hannold defended her. The Planning Commission holds a great deal of power over how we live our lives in Island County. Hannold has made it clear with his appointments that poor and working people need not apply for residence.
But then – and this is classic Hannold – he takes credit for having recently passed the updated Housing element of the Comprehensive Plan, presumably over the objections of his appointed Planning Commissioners.
6-23-18 Commissioners were right to join opioid lawsuit.
Hannold voted no. This is a multi-jurisdictional national lawsuit to hold the manufacturers accountable for their massive advertising and distribution of opioids. Hannold’s comment was that this was a law enforcement matter and they just needed to get the dealers off the street. Right.
5-19-18 Commissioners have questions about city request.
Oak Harbor requested review of the just completed Joint Planning Area, asking for expansion. The commissioners voted not to reopen the issue. Hannold voted in favor of reopening. This is tied to the Wright’s Crossing proposal to build 1500 houses on farm land south of Oak Harbor, which incidentally is currently in court. Oak Harbor needs that new review to make the development happen. Hannold has claimed to be against that development, but then he just voted in favor of it.
5-12-18 Commissioners decline federal funds for trail.
This is the Ken’s Corner to ferry proposed trail which has long been in the county’s trails network plan. At a recent candidates’ night Hannold said he opposed it because it was uphill all the way. Yep, and if you’re going the other way it would go downhill, but he evidently forgot that part. Hannold and Jill Johnson turned back that funding because they had other priorities in their own districts. Never mind that there was no funding for those other priorities. We end up losing the Clinton trail and having no funds for the Oak Harbor and north trails. Good work, guys.
He has consistently refused to spend and even refused to accept funds for projects in districts other than his own – and when he is overridden, again, he claims credit for the good the projects have done.
3-18-18 County board revisits debate over health.
This is about the health impacts of growler noise. Hannold expressed his frustration because as far as he was concerned the issue was closed. “I thought we put an end to this conversation, but it still comes up every meeting. Life can cause illness and adverse health effects. The only way around it is death.” If I were less charitable I would translate this statement as an invitation to residents of the prairie to drop dead.
10-27-17 County continues home nurse visits – for now.
Hannold said “I don’t question the value of the program. I question what part county government is responsible for.” It follows for the rest of us to question how this valuable program would continue without Island County’s participation. Hannold said he believes that mental health issues start in homes and schools, and that government should ‘unshackle’ parents and teachers from ‘a lot of liberal rules and regulations.’ I think the public needs urgently to know just what ‘liberal rules and regulations’ are such an imposition on parents and teachers.
10-13-14 Candidates take on spate of topics at South Whidbey forum.
Island County Commissioner candidate Rick Hannold told the audience that the threat of global warming is largely overstated. “I feel its just part of the natural course of things. You can skew the facts either way depending on who’s paying for the study.”
Hannold has consistently tried to shut down the Conservation Futures fund and program. In his campaign literature he claims to have “successfully reorganized” Conservation Futures. Right. His reorganization eliminated the Technical Advisory Group, which did the research on which decisions were based. Conservation Futures is the program which provides the seed money which Whidbey Camano Land Trust so skillfully leverages into significant grants which they then use to buy such places as the Trillium forest, conservation easements all over Ebey’s Landing National Historic Reserve, and Barnum Point on Camano, among many others. Without that seed money those other grants are not available. Rumor has it that Hannold tried to sell off Barnum Point to developers. Failing that, he then took credit for what I hear is becoming a great public asset. And in his campaign material he even takes credit for the Land Trust’s work securing the Fakkema Farm. Now that is some chutzpah, given that WEAN spent inordinate amounts of $$ defending Island County against Oak Harbor’s demand to annex the farm, and WCLT eventually raised the multiple millions to buy the development rights. Hannold’s only participation was his signature on the enabling ordinance.
One of Angie Homola’s accomplishments as a commissioner was to create the Clean Water Utility, intended to fund projects to do just that. I found the minutes of a Water Resources Advisory Committee meeting from late 2016 in which it was reported that “C/Johnson and C/Hannold were not in support of implementing this phase of the CWU. Bill Oakes has a million dollars in reserve with approximately $600,000 spent annually. They voted 2-1 to not release the money this year.” One might conclude from this that Hannold is not interested in protecting our water quality, even when specifically designated funds are available and waiting to be spent.
Hannold also claims to have saved Island Transit from bankruptcy. Right.
Most egregious is Hannold’s claim to have “led Island County’s victorious fight to keep multi-national open net fish farms away from Whidbey and Camano Island waters.” Maybe I’m most PO’d about this one because I was so intimately involved in the entire process. It began in 2010 when Angie Homola convinced her fellow commissioners to support a ban on Atlantic salmon net pens in the upcoming review and update of Island County’s Shoreline Master Program. The review and update went forward and eventually was sent to Ecology for review and approval. Ecology held the Shoreline Master Program hostage, demanding Island County remove the ban. There were a series of meetings and hearings, all of which Steve and I attended. Steve wrote a major paper summarizing all the science he could on the subject, and Ecology’s negotiator, Mr Tim Gates, acknowledged that Steve’s paper was the reason they waited 2 whole years to respond, and when they did it was to cave in and allow Island County’s ban. Rick Hannold’s only involvement in any of this was to approve the final adoption – and to add a weakening amendment allowing for industrial shellfish harvest on our shores. Once again, he takes credit for the work of others.
I need to repeat that Rick Hannold does not believe that climate change is real, so sees no reason why Island County should prepare for it. It might be interesting to hear his response to the recent report by the IPCC telling us that unless we take action NOW, we are all cooked.
I have just posted an inquiry to both Rick Hannold and Janet St Clair asking for their responses to the IPCC report. I will post as soon as I hear back.
I have very strong feelings about giving credit where credit is due. There is no shortage of this commodity and it doesn’t cost a lot to acknowledge what others have done. Rick Hannold has obviously never learned this lesson and takes egregiously inappropriate credit for the actions of others.
Janet St Clair, D http://www.janetstclair.com/
stclair4islandcounty@gmail.com
Janet is more than a breath of fresh air. She’s a bit of a strong wind who will stir up Island County government in a most positive way. Her background is in human services. She sits on the Island County Community Health Advisory Board, so already has some idea of how things work (or fail to work) at the county. Among other things she has seen just how personally offensive some county commissioners can be, which has caused her to take a pledge for civility. That in itself is a welcome and long needed change.
Unlike incumbent Hannold, Janet has genuine hands-on experience in developing and administering significant budgets. I also discovered in my research that Janet is the co-author of a published paper on providing comprehensive physical and mental health services.
Here are the points Janet makes in her campaign literature:
* Access to healthcare, including mental health and substance abuse treatment
* Dignified retirement and resources to age in place
* Affordable housing and economic opportunities for Island County residents
* Parks, access to beaches and open space for everyone to explore our outdoor wonders
* Stewardship of the natural beauty of our islands through sound planning and policies
* Respectful, experienced leadership that values community and people above all
Janet believes climate change is real and that human activity is responsible for it. She sees that Island County can reduce its impact and can prepare for such things as sea level rise. She already leads a small environmental organization in public education on these issues. She proposes, as commissioner, to work locally and regionally to develop policies and provide incentives for positive behavior. She is a proponent of low impact development, reducing stormwater runoff, working toward converting the county’s vehicle fleet to lower energy, providing more electric vehicle charging stations, and supporting I-1631, intended to move Washington from dependence on fossil fuels.
She has plans to deal with homelessness and affordable housing, and the background and experience to lend some reality to those plans. Here’s a quote:
She supports the following strategies that can increase housing inventory while staying within GMA mandates and protect the rural and small town nature of our communities.
a. Increase in-fill housing inventory in established urban growth areas and incorporated towns/cities.
b. Create and incentivize co-housing and shared housing policies that meet septic and water standards.
c. Develop policies for micro-housing on large parcels that do not detract or damage our environment and farms.
d. Provide incentives for owners to transfer existing housing from a VRBO inventory to rental inventory where fiscally possible.
At the candidates’ night Janet pledged to hold town hall meetings on a regular schedule, both on Camano and North Whidbey, in the evening so working people can attend. She also wants to work on ‘virtual representation.’ Something Angie Homola spent years accomplishing was a video link between the county courthouse and the Camano annex, so people on Camano could participate without driving for several hours. The technology has advanced and Janet wants to make use of those advances to increase distance participation.
On the environmental front, she spoke about the need to “de-armor” Island County’s shorelines. There are in fact regulations to prevent new bulkheads, but those are honored primarily in the breach. The effect of all these bulkheads is that the waves which would otherwise run out on the shore are blocked, but bulkheads have ends, so the blocked waves go around the ends of those bulkheads with more volume and energy – and erode the neighboring properties. There are technologies called “soft shore armoring” which could in many cases replace those bulkheads, reduce the wave energy, and prevent damaging erosion. Janet gave the recent project(s) at Cornet Bay as a great example.
Someone raised the issue of NAS and Growler noise over Coupeville and the prairie. Janet responded that this was very much an economic issue, and that even the Navy itself says that there are alternatives. They just don’t want to implement them. Janet sees the preferred alternative as having too great an impact on central Whidbey. She is very clear that challenging the current and proposed flight patterns and numbers does not make people anti Navy. She sees a tremendous adverse economic impact which she does not believe the people on central Whidbey should have to shoulder. She intends to consult with Rick Larsen and Senators Murray and Cantwell to address this, and ask them what plans they have to buy out all those impacted homes and farms. She believes that Island County needs economic mitigation for the Navy’s plans.
What this election comes down to is wildly divergent views of what government is all about. Rick Hannold comes from a military background. The military is organized as a hierarchy. Orders come down from above and are carried out by those below, without questioning the whys or wherefores. That is necessary in a military situation but it is totally counterproductive in a civic situation.
Janet St Clair, by contrast, believes that government is all of us taking care of the business of all of us. As she puts it, government works best when we all participate. There is no imposition of orders from above but rather a community discussion which, with luck, leads to a consensus on the best course of action. Admittedly this democratic approach is much messier than simply giving and carrying out orders, but it does give everybody who participates a voice.
That admittedly messy inclusivity is terribly important to me.
Which is why I will be voting enthusiastically for Janet St Clair.
Thursday, October 18, 2018
Island County Sheriff
Island County Sheriff
Lane Campbell, R
https://folkc.com/
Deputy Sheriff Lane K. Campbell Announces Candidacy for Island County Sheriff
“Serve through Experience, Lead by Example”
I Pledge to ALL Citizen’s when Elected Island County Sheriff, I will be your best Advocate for Building Community Trust by ensuring that laws are enforced with respect, compassion and absolute resolve; with complete transparency to everyone.
I have dedicated 37 years of my life in law enforcement, the last 27 and a half of which has been as a Deputy with the Island County Sheriff’s Office. I have a strong commitment and personal bond with the community that I have served for over half my life. I have gained a vast working knowledge of Federal, State, City and County agencies over the course of my career. I believe the variety of agencies and nearly four decades of experience has afforded me the knowledge necessary to effectively supervise and manage the position of Island County Sheriff. My pledge to the citizens of Island County is to utilize your hard earned tax dollars in a responsible, effective and transparent manner.
When elected Sheriff I will have an open door policy and it is extremely important to me that neither I nor my administrative staff ever forget where we came from or who we serve.
In Island County we face the same challenges as our surrounding larger cities and counties. We all have homelessness, we all have substance abuse and we all have our share of the mentally ill. Society has been confronting these issues for many decades and generations. Having worked the streets for the past 37 years, I intend to introduce new and innovative community programs, which focus on early detection, prevention and building trust. Dealing directly with our substance abuse problem each and every day, I feel there needs to be a societal commitment to solving this epidemic. When I am elected Sheriff my office will continue to offer services as requested by these individuals.
Effectively and respectfully managing the mentally ill challenges can be and are at times truly significant. Over the 37 years of my service, I have had one on one experience with thousands and thousands of mentally ill citizens. This experience has given me a unique insight and advantage in dealing with these individuals. Even though our county is small and our resources are limited, as your Sheriff I will work tirelessly with the local mental health organizations and laws such as “Joel’s Law”, Sheena’s Law” and “Ricky’s Law” to ensure that these citizens are treated with respect, dignity and with their best interest at heart.
https://folkc.com/about-lane/
SERVE THROUGH EXPERIENCE, LEAD BY EXAMPLE: I would like to thank you for taking the time to learn about your next Island County Sheriff. I am nearly 53 years old, the last 27 and a half-years of which I’ve been serving the Island County citizens as a Deputy Sheriff. I began my career in law enforcement 37 years ago at the age of 16 when I became a cadet for the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office. In 1985, at the age of 20, I began full time employment with the Suquamish Tribal Police near Bainbridge Island. After completing the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission Academy, I remained with the tribal police for approximately one year. In 1986 I was hired by the Winslow Police Dept. on Bainbridge Island where I remained for the next 4 years. In 1989 I was one of 7 law enforcement officers in the State of Washington to be chosen for the “Steal a Cop” program with the Washington State Patrol. I remained with the State Patrol for approximately 6 months before coming to the realization that I personally needed more diversity to my career than traffic enforcement. In 1990 I began my career with the Island County Sheriff’s Office, where I’ve worked ever since. Even after 37 years, I am not ready to retire however I am ready to change my role in our communities. I have decided to run as your next Sheriff and introduce some new and innovative strategies into our communities. It is truly time to address 21st century problems with 21st century ideas. If you are looking for a Sheriff that serves our communities with experience and leads through example I’m your man. Thank you for your support. For more information please visit my website at: www.folkc.com
PLATFORM: I have a number of issues that I will be addressing as your next Island County Sheriff. This department needs to see positive change while maintaining the core values of our community. The following are some but not all of my top priorities:
PUBLIC SAFETY: As your next Sheriff, I will continue my commitment to public safety by collaborating with community members, other agencies and county administrators to identify and address:
Problems that are unique to each of our many individual communities.
Current programs with a history of wasting tax dollars and producing low rates of success.
Career criminals.
SUBSTANCE ABUSE: As your Sheriff, drug dealers will not be tolerated. I will provide my deputies with the tools and recourses necessary to identify, arrest and convict these individuals. I will work closely with our judicial system and county government to ensure:
That drug dealers will be held fully accountable and not simply recycled through a current system.
That substance abusers who want help will receive help from programs that have proven results, are financially sustainable and provide long-term follow-up support.
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP: 37 years of being on the road has given me unique insight and the firm belief that direct contact is important for administrators and deputies alike. As your Sheriff, my administrative staff and I will be out in the field to ensure that:
We continue to build trust between the Sheriff’s office and the community.
We collaboratively and effectively solve problems.
We never forget where we came from or whom we serve.
COMMUNITY CARETAKING: Island County shares many common problems such as homelessness, substance abuse and mental health. Not all of these individuals are criminals. As your Sheriff, I will:
Ensure that all citizens are treated respectfully and equitably
Provide services for those individuals who request help
Advocate for alternatives to incarceration for those with special circumstances
I was able to hear Mr Campbell speak at two candidates’ events. I think he is a good man trying to do his job. I think he is a road cop, which is an important job. I don’t think he would do well as a sheriff because he does not seem to know what that job entails. At the end of the Freeland event he said that he would not be ensconced in an office but would be in his car, on the road, meeting people. That’s a road deputy’s job description, not the sheriff’s. He gave no evidence of understanding all the aspects of the sheriff’s job.
Since I did not have the opportunity to speak with him I posted to Mr Campbell the same question I had posted to Mr Felici, about “recreational bulldozing.” His response was positive, but it was also less than literate. Not that I would be a snob or anything, but I expect my public servants to be reasonably well educated. I believe the fact that Mr Campbell has remained a road cop for all these 37 years demonstrates that this is the job where he does best.
Rick Felici, R
currently #2 person under Mark Brown
https://www.rickfelici.com/
https://www.facebook.com/rickfeliciforsheriff/
Philosophy: I am running for Island County Sheriff because I believe in efficient, effective and integrated public safety across all aspects of life in Island County. I believe the Sheriff has a duty to protect and serve all who live, work and play in Island County. We live in a beautiful, dynamic and growing rural county. Growth has many positive benefits, however with growth comes additional strain on limited public resources and increased criminal activity. I see this election as an excellent opportunity for me to contribute to the citizens of Island County by sharing my experience, leadership and vision for new levels of integrated and effective law enforcement. I love what I do because I know it makes a difference to all members of our community.
Issues:
Drug Enforcement & Quality of Life: Drug abuse, including the unprecedented use of heroin and other illicit drugs, homelessness and people suffering from mental health issues are some of the largest challenges to public safety today. Management of these issues requires an effective combination of enforcement, education and treatment. As your Sheriff, I will work tirelessly to combine the strengths of all available resources to combat these problems as they relate to public safety & quality of life. There is not one perfect solution. However, I believe that collaborative work with fellow governmental agencies, concerned citizens and community organizations will yield positive and measurable results.
Cyber Crime: Internet and Web-based technologies bring new opportunities for criminal activity such as identity theft, sexual exploitation fraud and harassment. While the Island County Sheriff's Office currently has a cutting edge team investigating computer crimes, I believe the threat of cyber crime is still in its infancy. We must continue to grow in this area to combat this emerging type of crime. I am proud of the work our Office does in investigating these crimes and I believe education is key to personal safety online.
As your Sheriff, I will work to ensure that resources are dedicated to internet safety education in our schools & community, as well as supporting investigation and enforcement of cyber crime laws.
Property Crime: Theft, fraud, burglary and other "property crimes" continue to be an unfortunate reality in our society. There is no doubt these crimes have a direct relationship to illegal drug use. We must find ways to dedicate resources to more proactive drug investigations to effectively address property crime. As your Sheriff, I will work to ensure that available resources are focused on proactive narcotics enforcement.
Traffic Safety: In my experience, traffic safety is one of the most frequently voiced concerns of our community. Serious injury and fatal collisions occur far too often on our roadways. We must continue to work with our enforcement and education partners to combat this public safety issue.
In 2015, Rick was appointed to his current position as the Chief Criminal Deputy for the Island County Sheriff's Office. He is responsible for the leadership and management of Patrol, Investigations, Marine Safety and Animal Control Divisions. Along with these responsibilities are budgeting proposals, office development and hiring of new employees. Rick focuses on fostering an environment of leadership, accountability, fiscal responsibility and customer service.
Rick is a law & order public servant and will continue that tradition as Sheriff. His door is always open to his team members, public and private leaders and members of the community.
I have now had the opportunity to watch and hear Rick Felici at two candidate events. After the first one he told me that he had not been at his best because he was operating with only 2 hours’ sleep. This is one of the problems of running for office while still having to do your day job. My sense of Mr Felici is that he is competent, and actually understands all the various parts of the sheriff’s job.
I was very favorably impressed that he actually remembered a conversation we had a good ten years ago concerning what I call “recreational bulldozing.” This is the practice of doing work which the landowner knows requires a permit. Rather than going through the process they just hire a friend of a friend who shows up late Friday and is finish by Sunday afternoon. I asked Mr Felici if he would be willing to send a deputy to such a situation to ask that work stop until Monday when county staff could come evaluate the situation. Current sheriff Mark Brown had told me, with dripping disdain that “I won’t risk one of my deputies on a mere civil matter.” Mr Felici, just a couple of weeks ago, said that he would be willing to send a deputy, but that I needed to understand they actually have no authority in such a situation. Yep. I’m only too well aware of that. Still, when a deputy shows up at the work site, a lot of people will do as the deputy asks.
My impression is that Mr Felici was a good road cop, a good investigator, and now he’s a good administrator, which is what the sheriff needs to be.
I will be voting for Rick Felici for sheriff.
Lane Campbell, R
https://folkc.com/
Deputy Sheriff Lane K. Campbell Announces Candidacy for Island County Sheriff
“Serve through Experience, Lead by Example”
I Pledge to ALL Citizen’s when Elected Island County Sheriff, I will be your best Advocate for Building Community Trust by ensuring that laws are enforced with respect, compassion and absolute resolve; with complete transparency to everyone.
I have dedicated 37 years of my life in law enforcement, the last 27 and a half of which has been as a Deputy with the Island County Sheriff’s Office. I have a strong commitment and personal bond with the community that I have served for over half my life. I have gained a vast working knowledge of Federal, State, City and County agencies over the course of my career. I believe the variety of agencies and nearly four decades of experience has afforded me the knowledge necessary to effectively supervise and manage the position of Island County Sheriff. My pledge to the citizens of Island County is to utilize your hard earned tax dollars in a responsible, effective and transparent manner.
When elected Sheriff I will have an open door policy and it is extremely important to me that neither I nor my administrative staff ever forget where we came from or who we serve.
In Island County we face the same challenges as our surrounding larger cities and counties. We all have homelessness, we all have substance abuse and we all have our share of the mentally ill. Society has been confronting these issues for many decades and generations. Having worked the streets for the past 37 years, I intend to introduce new and innovative community programs, which focus on early detection, prevention and building trust. Dealing directly with our substance abuse problem each and every day, I feel there needs to be a societal commitment to solving this epidemic. When I am elected Sheriff my office will continue to offer services as requested by these individuals.
Effectively and respectfully managing the mentally ill challenges can be and are at times truly significant. Over the 37 years of my service, I have had one on one experience with thousands and thousands of mentally ill citizens. This experience has given me a unique insight and advantage in dealing with these individuals. Even though our county is small and our resources are limited, as your Sheriff I will work tirelessly with the local mental health organizations and laws such as “Joel’s Law”, Sheena’s Law” and “Ricky’s Law” to ensure that these citizens are treated with respect, dignity and with their best interest at heart.
https://folkc.com/about-lane/
SERVE THROUGH EXPERIENCE, LEAD BY EXAMPLE: I would like to thank you for taking the time to learn about your next Island County Sheriff. I am nearly 53 years old, the last 27 and a half-years of which I’ve been serving the Island County citizens as a Deputy Sheriff. I began my career in law enforcement 37 years ago at the age of 16 when I became a cadet for the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office. In 1985, at the age of 20, I began full time employment with the Suquamish Tribal Police near Bainbridge Island. After completing the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission Academy, I remained with the tribal police for approximately one year. In 1986 I was hired by the Winslow Police Dept. on Bainbridge Island where I remained for the next 4 years. In 1989 I was one of 7 law enforcement officers in the State of Washington to be chosen for the “Steal a Cop” program with the Washington State Patrol. I remained with the State Patrol for approximately 6 months before coming to the realization that I personally needed more diversity to my career than traffic enforcement. In 1990 I began my career with the Island County Sheriff’s Office, where I’ve worked ever since. Even after 37 years, I am not ready to retire however I am ready to change my role in our communities. I have decided to run as your next Sheriff and introduce some new and innovative strategies into our communities. It is truly time to address 21st century problems with 21st century ideas. If you are looking for a Sheriff that serves our communities with experience and leads through example I’m your man. Thank you for your support. For more information please visit my website at: www.folkc.com
PLATFORM: I have a number of issues that I will be addressing as your next Island County Sheriff. This department needs to see positive change while maintaining the core values of our community. The following are some but not all of my top priorities:
PUBLIC SAFETY: As your next Sheriff, I will continue my commitment to public safety by collaborating with community members, other agencies and county administrators to identify and address:
Problems that are unique to each of our many individual communities.
Current programs with a history of wasting tax dollars and producing low rates of success.
Career criminals.
SUBSTANCE ABUSE: As your Sheriff, drug dealers will not be tolerated. I will provide my deputies with the tools and recourses necessary to identify, arrest and convict these individuals. I will work closely with our judicial system and county government to ensure:
That drug dealers will be held fully accountable and not simply recycled through a current system.
That substance abusers who want help will receive help from programs that have proven results, are financially sustainable and provide long-term follow-up support.
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP: 37 years of being on the road has given me unique insight and the firm belief that direct contact is important for administrators and deputies alike. As your Sheriff, my administrative staff and I will be out in the field to ensure that:
We continue to build trust between the Sheriff’s office and the community.
We collaboratively and effectively solve problems.
We never forget where we came from or whom we serve.
COMMUNITY CARETAKING: Island County shares many common problems such as homelessness, substance abuse and mental health. Not all of these individuals are criminals. As your Sheriff, I will:
Ensure that all citizens are treated respectfully and equitably
Provide services for those individuals who request help
Advocate for alternatives to incarceration for those with special circumstances
I was able to hear Mr Campbell speak at two candidates’ events. I think he is a good man trying to do his job. I think he is a road cop, which is an important job. I don’t think he would do well as a sheriff because he does not seem to know what that job entails. At the end of the Freeland event he said that he would not be ensconced in an office but would be in his car, on the road, meeting people. That’s a road deputy’s job description, not the sheriff’s. He gave no evidence of understanding all the aspects of the sheriff’s job.
Since I did not have the opportunity to speak with him I posted to Mr Campbell the same question I had posted to Mr Felici, about “recreational bulldozing.” His response was positive, but it was also less than literate. Not that I would be a snob or anything, but I expect my public servants to be reasonably well educated. I believe the fact that Mr Campbell has remained a road cop for all these 37 years demonstrates that this is the job where he does best.
Rick Felici, R
currently #2 person under Mark Brown
https://www.rickfelici.com/
https://www.facebook.com/rickfeliciforsheriff/
Philosophy: I am running for Island County Sheriff because I believe in efficient, effective and integrated public safety across all aspects of life in Island County. I believe the Sheriff has a duty to protect and serve all who live, work and play in Island County. We live in a beautiful, dynamic and growing rural county. Growth has many positive benefits, however with growth comes additional strain on limited public resources and increased criminal activity. I see this election as an excellent opportunity for me to contribute to the citizens of Island County by sharing my experience, leadership and vision for new levels of integrated and effective law enforcement. I love what I do because I know it makes a difference to all members of our community.
Issues:
Drug Enforcement & Quality of Life: Drug abuse, including the unprecedented use of heroin and other illicit drugs, homelessness and people suffering from mental health issues are some of the largest challenges to public safety today. Management of these issues requires an effective combination of enforcement, education and treatment. As your Sheriff, I will work tirelessly to combine the strengths of all available resources to combat these problems as they relate to public safety & quality of life. There is not one perfect solution. However, I believe that collaborative work with fellow governmental agencies, concerned citizens and community organizations will yield positive and measurable results.
Cyber Crime: Internet and Web-based technologies bring new opportunities for criminal activity such as identity theft, sexual exploitation fraud and harassment. While the Island County Sheriff's Office currently has a cutting edge team investigating computer crimes, I believe the threat of cyber crime is still in its infancy. We must continue to grow in this area to combat this emerging type of crime. I am proud of the work our Office does in investigating these crimes and I believe education is key to personal safety online.
As your Sheriff, I will work to ensure that resources are dedicated to internet safety education in our schools & community, as well as supporting investigation and enforcement of cyber crime laws.
Property Crime: Theft, fraud, burglary and other "property crimes" continue to be an unfortunate reality in our society. There is no doubt these crimes have a direct relationship to illegal drug use. We must find ways to dedicate resources to more proactive drug investigations to effectively address property crime. As your Sheriff, I will work to ensure that available resources are focused on proactive narcotics enforcement.
Traffic Safety: In my experience, traffic safety is one of the most frequently voiced concerns of our community. Serious injury and fatal collisions occur far too often on our roadways. We must continue to work with our enforcement and education partners to combat this public safety issue.
In 2015, Rick was appointed to his current position as the Chief Criminal Deputy for the Island County Sheriff's Office. He is responsible for the leadership and management of Patrol, Investigations, Marine Safety and Animal Control Divisions. Along with these responsibilities are budgeting proposals, office development and hiring of new employees. Rick focuses on fostering an environment of leadership, accountability, fiscal responsibility and customer service.
Rick is a law & order public servant and will continue that tradition as Sheriff. His door is always open to his team members, public and private leaders and members of the community.
I have now had the opportunity to watch and hear Rick Felici at two candidate events. After the first one he told me that he had not been at his best because he was operating with only 2 hours’ sleep. This is one of the problems of running for office while still having to do your day job. My sense of Mr Felici is that he is competent, and actually understands all the various parts of the sheriff’s job.
I was very favorably impressed that he actually remembered a conversation we had a good ten years ago concerning what I call “recreational bulldozing.” This is the practice of doing work which the landowner knows requires a permit. Rather than going through the process they just hire a friend of a friend who shows up late Friday and is finish by Sunday afternoon. I asked Mr Felici if he would be willing to send a deputy to such a situation to ask that work stop until Monday when county staff could come evaluate the situation. Current sheriff Mark Brown had told me, with dripping disdain that “I won’t risk one of my deputies on a mere civil matter.” Mr Felici, just a couple of weeks ago, said that he would be willing to send a deputy, but that I needed to understand they actually have no authority in such a situation. Yep. I’m only too well aware of that. Still, when a deputy shows up at the work site, a lot of people will do as the deputy asks.
My impression is that Mr Felici was a good road cop, a good investigator, and now he’s a good administrator, which is what the sheriff needs to be.
I will be voting for Rick Felici for sheriff.
State Supreme Court
State Supreme Court positions 2, 8, and 9
Position 2
Justice Susan Owens
https://www.courts.wa.gov/appellate_trial_courts/supreme/bios/?fa=scbios.display_file&fileID=owens
There’s not much to add to what I have posted in years past. She’s doing a good job, and incidentally, she is running unopposed. It is my general practice not to vote for people running unopposed unless I think they deserve the recognition. I think Justice Owens does, so I will be voting for Susan Owens.
On November 7, 2000, Judge Susan Owens was elected the seventh woman to serve on the Washington State Supreme Court. She joined the court after serving nineteen years as District Court Judge in Western Clallam County, where she was the County's senior elected official with five terms. She also served as the Quileute Tribe's Chief Judge for five years and Chief Judge of the Lower Elwha S'Klallam Tribe for six plus years.
Justice Owens was born and raised in Kingston, North Carolina, where she graduated from high school. Her father, the late Frank Owens, was a small town general practitioner, and her mother, Hazel, is a retired law enforcement officer. She attended college at Duke University. After graduation in 1971, she attended law school at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, receiving her J.D. in 1975. She was admitted to the Oregon State Bar in 1975, and the Washington State Bar in 1976.
Justice Owens was active in the District & Municipal Court Judges' Association for many years. She was President-Elect of DMCJA prior to her election to the Supreme Court. She previously served as Vice President, Secretary-Treasurer, and Board member. She served on the Long Range Planning, Diversity, Conference, and Education committees. In 1990, she was co-founder and Chair of the Rural Courts Committee, and has taught that subject at the Judicial College. She is extremely proud to be a member of that most important judiciary.
Justice Owens is passionate about domestic violence issues that impact children, and judicial education in that area. She has been a national trainer in that subject. She has trained judges from Anchorage to Albuquerque, and participated in the writing of the Northwest Tribal Judges Domestic Violence Manual. She has lectured at the National College of Prosecuting Attorneys' Domestic Violence Conference. She is committed to ongoing efforts in this very important area of law.
Justice Owens serves on the Rules Committee, the Bench-Bar-Press Committee, and the Board for Judicial Administration. She is the Court's chair for the Fall Judicial Conference. She also serves on the Washington State Bar Association's Leadership Institute Advisory Board and the Committee on Public Defense.
Justice Owens loves baseball, and her children - Sunny and Owen, daughter-in-law Ann, son-in-law Chad Nelson, and her three grandchildren. She also loves the Olympic National Park, Lake Ozette, and everything about the West End of Clallam County.
from my 2012 bog post:
Susan Owens, incumbent, endorsed by Progressive Voter, been a good judge for 12 years. No reason to change now. Judged Well Qualified by King Co Bar Assoc. Described by a fellow justice as “bright, well-intentioned, thoughtful and compassionate, and takes her job very seriously.”
Position 8
Stephen Gonzalez, incumbent (2012)
Nathan Choi
http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2018/sep/17/two-of-three-incumbents-unchallenged-in-state-supr/
This story reports that Justice Gonzalez’s opponent, Nathan Choi, has yet to begin fundraising in late September. If this sounds like he’s not terribly serious, that may be because he isn’t. It also has to do with his evident disability to read and understand campaign finance and reporting rules.
Justice Gonzalez comes highly recommended by both parties, as he did in 2012 when he was first elected. He never met his opponent then and this year he has just met his current opponent, Nathan Choi, at a candidate debate in Spokane.
Mr Choi says he’s been busy and is now (late September) getting into campaign mode. Mr Choi was sued by the Attorney General’s office for failure to abide by Public Disclosure Commission rules in a 2017 run for Court of Appeals. He did not respond to the lawsuit so is now in default. It looks like he’s doing it again. Thus far he has failed to report the $1867.00 filing fee, or anything else, for that matter. He puts it down to “glitches. Its not intentional, little things that have to be resolved. It’s not like I’m colluding with Russians or anything.” He was admonished by the King County PDC. He has refused to participate in the Bar Association rating process, claiming it is prejudiced.
Justice Gonzalez did participate and has been rated (again) as “exceptionally well qualified.”
http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2018/sep/27/vying-for-washington-supreme-court-seat-choi-gonza/
Choi, in the debate, referred to Brett Kavanaugh as “this honorable gentleman.” Sorry but I have to disagree, rather vehemently. Choi also mentioned that he admired Justice Clarence Thomas, who he said “was tormented like Kavanaugh is now.”
https://31stdistrictdemocrats.org/washington-supreme-court-justice-position-8-steve-gonzalez/
This is a questionnaire filled in by Justice Gonzalez but not by Mr Choi. Justice Gonzalez is considered “very liberal” by some, and his response to the question about Black Lives Matter made it clear that he does in fact care about justice for everybody – which is what we want in a Supreme Court justice.
Steve Gonzalez https://justicegonzalez.com/ is endorsed by Democrats statewide, and by labor, progressives, Indivisible, and NW Tribal Court Judges’ association. He is rated exceptionally well qualified by Latina/o Bar Assoc of WA, WA Women lawyers, Veterans Bar Assoc, Cardozo Society, QLaw (LGBTQ), Joint Asian Bar Assoc, & W WA county bar associations., WA Ed Assoc, VoteProChoice – and the list goes on.
https://www.facebook.com/JusticeSteveGonzalez One has the impression of a basically decent human being who takes his judicial duties very seriously. He likes libraries. He does lots of pro-bono stuff, lecturing, teaching, etc.
from my 2012 blog:
position 8
Steve Gonzalez, incumbent, appointed 2012, endorsed by Progressive Voter, respected and experienced judge on King Co Superior Court, former Assistant US Attorney. “We need to have the courage to speak for people who don’t have a voice.”
You can scroll down to the primaries to get the full pile of dirt on Nathan Choi. There’s a whole lot of it. I’m just now realizing why he is so supportive of Brett Kavanaugh and Clarence Thomas. To quote from my previous post: Choi has been involved in a messy divorce, trying to take the 3 children and move to Hawaii. The court and Guardian Ad Litem for the children found him less than honest. It gets worse – seems he assaulted two of the children and threatened to kill their mother.
Needless to say (but I’ll say it anyway), given a choice between a truly decent mensch and an abusive creep, I’ll be voting for Steve Gonzalez.
Position 9
Sheryl Gordon McCloud
https://www.facebook.com/mccloudforjustice/
https://justicesherylmccloud.com
https://www.courts.wa.gov/appellate_trial_courts/supreme/bios/?fa=scbios.display_file&fileID=gordon_mccloud
Sheryl Gordon McCloud is endorsed by Progressive Voter and an impressive array of judges and attorneys. She wants to assure that trials are conducted properly. “I’ve been fighting for fairness for all, including those who have often lacked meaningful access to the judicial system.” Says one attorney: “McCloud’s reputation for fairness and her tireless pursuit of justice will benefit all of our State’s citizens.” She represented a man wrongly sentenced to death and won him a retrial. She worked to win sick leave benefits for pregnant women. She has fought for battered women who fight back. She has also fought to support the right to own guns. Gotta say, she’s fair across ideological lines.
Justice Sheryl Gordon McCloud was elected to the Washington Supreme Court in 2012 after nearly 30 years as an accomplished appellate lawyer. As the recipient of the Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers' highest award, the William O. Douglas Award, she was recognized for "extraordinary courage" in being willing to take on some of the toughest cases. Justice McCloud was an invited member of the American Association of Appellate Lawyers and a founding member of the Washington Appellate Lawyers Association, both of which limit membership to the most accomplished appellate lawyers.
Justice McCloud also taught classes at Seattle University School of Law on a variety of topics including appellate advocacy and death penalty litigation. In addition, she has published articles and spoken to law and community groups on topics ranging from ethics to representation of indigent clients.
Now, as a Supreme Court Justice, she serves as Chair of the Washington State Gender & Justice Commission. She continues to speak regularly at legal and community events throughout the state. She is also a member of the Washington State Bar Association’s Council on Public Defense. She was the recipient of Washington Women Lawyers President’s Award in 2015.
Justice McCloud has participated in many significant cases that have come before the Court and was the author of the Court’s 2017 opinion in State v. Arlene’s Flowers, where the Court unanimously held that Washington’s Law Against Discrimination protects the rights of a gay couple seeking to buy flowers for their wedding and that the religious beliefs of the shop owner are not a bar to equal treatment.
Justice McCloud lives in Kitsap County with her husband Michael McCloud, who is an educator in the public schools. They have two grown sons.
Unfortunately her facebook page appears to have been hijacked by a 9-11 conspiracy theorist. In between those, we see that Justice McCloud has been endorsed by NARAL, Young Democrats, Washington Conservation Voters, OneAmerica Votes, Washington State Labor Council . . . I think you get the idea. This is someone who shares my values, and for that I will vote for her, even though she is running unopposed. She did have an opponent, but he was disbarred and so became ineligible to run.
I will be voting for Sheryl Gordon McCloud
Court of Appeals
Court of Appeals, Division 1, District 3, Position 1, which translates to Skagit, Whatcom, San Juan, and Island counties.
Cecily Hazelrigg-Hernandez
Tom Seguine
Cecily Hazelrigg-Hernandez https://cecilyforcoa.com/ https://www.facebook.com/cecilyforcoa
cecilyforcoa@gmail.com
Ms Hazelrigg-Hernandez is a Skagit County public defender.
Statement: Born and raised in Northwest Washington, I attended Oak Harbor schools, SVC and WWU before Gonzaga law school. I am a seasoned trial attorney focusing on criminal law and a former instructor at Western Washington University. My years working as a public defender in the Skagit County courts, teaching at the university level, and demonstrated commitment to community service have uniquely prepared me to represent the residents of Skagit, Whatcom, San Juan and Island Counties at the Court of Appeals.
My legal career has been focused on access to justice and centered on providing quality advocacy for my clients, regardless of their socioeconomic status. I am a bilingual attorney, enabling me to connect with a broader cross-section of our local communities. Sharply inquisitive by nature, my approach to legal representation is thoughtful and reasoned. While I am open and effective in collaborative efforts, I will stand with confidence on independent positions.
I pursued a legal career to engage my love of research, analytical skills and advocacy for the benefit of the community where I live and raise my children. My work ethic is formidable, and I am ready to put it to work for District 3.
https://progressivevotersguide.com/washington/2018/primary/cecily-hazelrigg-hernandez#race3441
I have now had a long and very positive conversation with Ms Hazelrigg-Hernandez. I am most favorably impressed. I asked a lot of probing and difficult questions and each one led to a major discussion.
Tom Seguine http://tomseguine.com/
northcascadeslegal@gmail.com
This announcement courtesy of Skagit Republicans:
It’s Official! Tom SeGuine, appellate attorney at law and former prosecuting attorney for Skagit County, has filed to run for Judge on the Court of Appeals in Division I, District 3. One judge will be selected to represent Island, San Juan, Skagit and Whatcom counties, following the November 2018 General Election. Tom wants to be YOUR Judge on the court. Tom has been a respected attorney in Northwest Washington for over 25 years. His specific experience in appellate law… with many cases going on to the state Supreme Court… along with his critical thinking and fair-mindedness make him an ideal candidate for the position!
What goes on at the Court of Appeals? Most cases appealed from superior courts go directly to the Court of Appeals. It is a non-discretionary appellate court--it must accept all appeals filed with it. The Court of Appeals has authority to reverse (overrule), remand (send back to the lower court), modify, or affirm the decision of the lower court.
The court decides each case after reviewing the transcript of the record in the superior court and considering the arguments of the parties. Generally, the court hears oral arguments in each case but does not take live testimony.
To qualify for a position on the Court of Appeals, a person must have practiced law in Washington state for five years and, at the time of election, lived for a year or more in the district from which that position was drawn. Of course Tom surpasses all these minimums by leaps and bounds!
https://skagitrepublicans.com/ElectTomSeguineStateAppellateCourtJudge
Back in May I received a letter from Mr Seguine inviting me to donate and to work on his campaign. It would be a frigid day in a very hot region before I would do so. I have no clue where he got my name, but I have experience with Mr Seguine and it has not been good. Remember the godawful case of Wonn Road public beach access? The wealthy neighbor stealing the access hired none other than Tom Seguine to represent the neighbors in that case. In effect he was getting a second shot in court. Seguine demonstrated himself to be inarticulate, unprepared, and generally incompetent. Not what I would want to see on the Appellate court.
Ms Hazelrigg-Hernandez told me that Tom Seguine has been emphasizing the fact that he has practiced law for many more years than she. True enough. She then said that while quantity is a useful measure, one has to look more closely at quality, and she has the qualities to be a good judge. I agree with her.
In comparing their fields of law I note that Mr Seguine has been a prosecutor – on the accusatory side, while Ms Hazelrigg-Hernandez has been a defender – speaking for the accused who cannot speak for themselves. She also pointed out that perspective, point of view, and life experience go a long way toward tempering what a judge sees in the facts presented. What I see in Tom Seguine in this regard is your classic privileged white male representing that privilege. In his letter he emphasized his experience as a prosecutor. And of course he chose to represent the rich landowner against the public at Wonn Road.
What I see in Ms Hazelrigg-Hernandez is a passion for justice on behalf of those who rarely experience it. I asked her specifically how she would deal with those situations in which the facts and the law stand against her personal sympathies. She assured me that she was bound to uphold the law in spite of any such sympathies but added that there is a big emotional cost in having to rule against one’s own beliefs - but that is what the job requires so she would do it.
Ms Hazelrigg-Hernandez, after a rigorous vetting process, has been endorsed by Judge Becker, the respected and brilliant judge whose retirement is leaving this position open.
There is much much more to say, but in the interest of keeping this relatively short and sweet I will refrain. In this race we have a highly qualified, passionate, intellectually curious candidate as opposed to a white male darling of the Skagit County Republicans. I, for one, prefer a non-partisan judiciary.
I will be voting enthusiastically for Cecily Hazelrigg-Hernandez.
If you really want to go there, here are my notes from that long conversation. There are some gems in here.
10-15-18 notes of phone conversation with Cecily Hazelrigg-Hernandez
candidate for Court of Appeals, division 1
Ms H-H phoned a bit before noon. We finally got off the phone a bit after 3:00 pm. We had a great and wide-ranging conversation.
She says Tom Seguine is emphasizing his many years of experience. Ms H-H counters that while he may have the quantity, she has the quality, as shown by the endorsements of respected judges.
She is bi-lingual, Spanish and English, and is raising her 2 daughters in a bi-lingual environment. Her husband is an immigrant from Mexico. She herself is half Chicana. Her husband has recently founded a construction company with a partner.
She has practiced immigration law and taught at WWU.
As a public defender she deals with Spanish speaking immigrants. She initiated a policy concerning ICE detainers, both to clarify the process and to empower the defense.
As a student she worked as a paralegal, with a focus on family law, at the Spokane Child Abuse Prevention Center, in a program to help estranged fathers reconnect with their children.
In Skagit County she has done mostly criminal defense. There are heavy caseloads. She has worked two trials during the campaign so far and expects to do a third.
She was an independent attorney in Bellingham. When her elder daughter went to Evergreen, her younger daughter felt lonely so they moved to Mt Vernon.
Ms H-H grew up in Oak Harbor as a Navy brat. She mentioned that the places where she used to play in the woods are now housing developments, and lamented the loss.
We discussed Island Transit and its impact on people’s lives. She said that immigrants struggle with transportation issues. They often are unable to appear in court because their ride fell through or the bus was late or they couldn’t afford the bus. This tends to result in a bench warrant and a new felony charge. It is part of the criminalization of poverty. It places all sorts of extra burdens on an indigent defendant. We discussed options and I suggested a code change to allow people to phone in and explain their transportation problem to avoid the bench warrant. Ms H-H said that there were possibilities, but that most judges would not allow a Zoom or Skype appearance. She said phone calls are not accepted in court, so the defendant would need to phone the defense attorney before the trial, but that she knew Laura Riquelme (who was a Skagit Co Superior Court judge for a while), when she was a civil defense attorney, did use such a technique once. She thought the idea had merit and should be pursued. She pointed out that criminal law by its nature always has a Constitutional component.
She said she had not practiced civil law, but she knows the judicial standard of review, how to do legal analysis, and has the writing skills. All of these were part of the vetting process she underwent to earn the endorsement of the retiring Judge Becker. She describes the job in part as communicating the law effectively to the public.
She said Skagit deputy prosecutors are given great autonomy. She has heard of Jesse Eldred (recently hired as Island County civil deputy prosecutor). He prosecuted involuntary mental health commitments. He would have had good examples before him. The hearings are held in the mental hospital and the subject is not often present. There is one attorney in the office who represents the patients. There is precedent in the Trueblood case, Snohomish County v Western State Hospital. The hospital was slow to the point of negligence in providing documentation. This led to censures and fines, but ultimately little change in operations.
She said the Public Defender’s office puts out immediate fires, but can’t focus on systemic increase in these cases or the causes of that increase. Skagit County has suffered a major influx of mentally ill transients who have no solid connection to the community but have been given a bus ticket out of King County.
I asked what she thought might be the cause of this inordinate increase in mental illness. She replied that it was partly about drugs, but that Psychology Today claimed it had to do with social media. The claim is that adolescents suffer mental health problems because these social media are simultaneously anonymous and intimate. It described an epidemic of loneliness from lack of direct contact.
I asked what she thought of the opioid lawsuit. She said that Skagit County had joined, and the Prosecutor’s office had been asked to calculate how many cases might be drug related. They responded that it was impossible to determine, because there was no way to know whether a petty theft or a domestic violence situation was drug related.
She volunteered that she had handled the first appearance of the Skagit valve turners and the videographer recording the event. The valve turners are heroes of mine, but that’s a whole other story.
She reported that Tom Seguine had bought 2 billboards in Bellingham, was spending a good deal on advertising but that it seemed rather scattered and untargeted. She reported great crossover with the other primary candidates. She thought well of Rita Latsinova who has a daughter the same age as her own. Roger Leishman “seemed lovely” from their very brief contact. Lisa Keeler was ok but they had some differences. Mr Leishman endorsed her. There was no response from the other two. She said that the Becker endorsement “means a ton.” Judge Becker is respected and brilliant and she expects to follow in those footsteps.
I asked how she would deal with the fact that her personal sympathies might not be consistent with the law on a particular case. She assured me that she was bound to uphold the law in spite of any such sympathies. She continued that a judge’s life experience shapes their view of the facts. In the Appeals Court the facts are generally already established and all the judges are required to do is to follow the law and the reasoning of the trial court. There is a big emotional cost in having to rule against one’s own beliefs, but that is what the job requires.
I asked about legal citations and determining the validity of such citations. She replied that the vetting process included determining the validity of citations. She has never before had a law clerk and is used to doing her own research. She expects to mentor law clerks but not have them doing her homework. She has an intense personal dislike for typos (a woman after my own heart). If she found misleading or outright incorrect citations she would question counsel about them in open court.
I mentioned Arne Denny, former Island County civil deputy prosecutor who on one occasion severely abused a citation. Ms H-H said she had worked opposite Arne Denny in a case of civil quarantine. A man who spoke Spanish only was quarantined with a virulent case of drug resistant tuberculosis. The man continually violated the quarantine. Arne Denny was asking that the man be incarcerated until he no longer posed a threat. Ms H-H represented the man and translated for him. Eventually he agreed to be housed in the special medical unit of the Snohomish County jail. Ms H-H said that visiting him there involved wearing special face masks and 6 months of medical testing afterward.
She volunteered that as a judge she would experience great intellectual exercise and be able to dig into cases and issues.
She was an instructor at Huxley College (WWU) American Cultural program for 7 years, including teaching ESL in continuing education and a unit in Mexico. 3 of those years overlapped with working as a Skagit County public defender, which was a brutal workload.
She explained that the Court of Appeals has 3 divisions, NW WA, SW WA, E WA. The NW division includes King, Snohomish, Skagit, Whatcom, San Juan, and Island counties. SW includes the remainder of western Washington and E covers everything east of the mountains.
Division 1 has 10 judges. 7 of them sit in King County, 2 in Snohomish, and 1 covers the other 4 counties. They sit in panels of 3.
The entire Court of Appeals was created 40+ years ago (quite recently) to relieve the congestion at the Supreme Court level. That court hears cases on a discretionary basis. The Appeals Courts must hear all cases filed before them.
I asked what she thought of the Kavanaugh debacle. She replied that it had definitely affected the tone of appointments. She believes that integrity, fairness, and justice still matter. She was appalled at the way Kavanaugh refused to answer, threw questions back into Senators’ faces, and generally misbehaved. She said that she is physically small and unimposing but would be fierce as a judge if a defendant failed to respond in the way Kavanaugh had done. She said that trial experience matters so much to judicial officers. She said that any candidate needs to be ready to answer questions and own their past. Integrity and professional reputation really matter. She intends to try a clean case in every case. “I will own my mistakes and my humanity.”
She is a class A sex offense qualified defender, a qualified Spanish speaking defender, and qualified in indigent defense. The only qualification she lacks is in death penalty cases – but the death penalty has now been abolished.
I asked about the transition from public defender to judge. Ms H-H said that Judge Becker will remain until the end of the year so there can be a clean transition. Ms H-H is preparing extensive file notes and will be reviewing cases with her boss. The office will be posting the position as soon as the outcome of the election is known, so while there may be a little gap, her colleagues should be able to cover that.
Ms H-H volunteered that this was a very big, very hard decision. She was asked to run and spent months thinking about the implications.
I asked about strict construction and judicial activism, pointing out that with the new Supreme Court there is the very real chance that women will be further disenfranchised. The Constitution does not mention women. Could women be ordered off the court? Out of the Senate and the House? Ms H-H responded that she does not yet know her own judicial philosophy. Context matters. An independent judiciary is vital. She is very concerned about partisan judicial appointments.
Ms H-H has a strong background in community activism. Her BA is in social justice activism and the law. She is hopeful that the people, through public action, will change their government.
Cecily Hazelrigg-Hernandez
Tom Seguine
Cecily Hazelrigg-Hernandez https://cecilyforcoa.com/ https://www.facebook.com/cecilyforcoa
cecilyforcoa@gmail.com
Ms Hazelrigg-Hernandez is a Skagit County public defender.
Statement: Born and raised in Northwest Washington, I attended Oak Harbor schools, SVC and WWU before Gonzaga law school. I am a seasoned trial attorney focusing on criminal law and a former instructor at Western Washington University. My years working as a public defender in the Skagit County courts, teaching at the university level, and demonstrated commitment to community service have uniquely prepared me to represent the residents of Skagit, Whatcom, San Juan and Island Counties at the Court of Appeals.
My legal career has been focused on access to justice and centered on providing quality advocacy for my clients, regardless of their socioeconomic status. I am a bilingual attorney, enabling me to connect with a broader cross-section of our local communities. Sharply inquisitive by nature, my approach to legal representation is thoughtful and reasoned. While I am open and effective in collaborative efforts, I will stand with confidence on independent positions.
I pursued a legal career to engage my love of research, analytical skills and advocacy for the benefit of the community where I live and raise my children. My work ethic is formidable, and I am ready to put it to work for District 3.
https://progressivevotersguide.com/washington/2018/primary/cecily-hazelrigg-hernandez#race3441
I have now had a long and very positive conversation with Ms Hazelrigg-Hernandez. I am most favorably impressed. I asked a lot of probing and difficult questions and each one led to a major discussion.
Tom Seguine http://tomseguine.com/
northcascadeslegal@gmail.com
This announcement courtesy of Skagit Republicans:
It’s Official! Tom SeGuine, appellate attorney at law and former prosecuting attorney for Skagit County, has filed to run for Judge on the Court of Appeals in Division I, District 3. One judge will be selected to represent Island, San Juan, Skagit and Whatcom counties, following the November 2018 General Election. Tom wants to be YOUR Judge on the court. Tom has been a respected attorney in Northwest Washington for over 25 years. His specific experience in appellate law… with many cases going on to the state Supreme Court… along with his critical thinking and fair-mindedness make him an ideal candidate for the position!
What goes on at the Court of Appeals? Most cases appealed from superior courts go directly to the Court of Appeals. It is a non-discretionary appellate court--it must accept all appeals filed with it. The Court of Appeals has authority to reverse (overrule), remand (send back to the lower court), modify, or affirm the decision of the lower court.
The court decides each case after reviewing the transcript of the record in the superior court and considering the arguments of the parties. Generally, the court hears oral arguments in each case but does not take live testimony.
To qualify for a position on the Court of Appeals, a person must have practiced law in Washington state for five years and, at the time of election, lived for a year or more in the district from which that position was drawn. Of course Tom surpasses all these minimums by leaps and bounds!
https://skagitrepublicans.com/ElectTomSeguineStateAppellateCourtJudge
Back in May I received a letter from Mr Seguine inviting me to donate and to work on his campaign. It would be a frigid day in a very hot region before I would do so. I have no clue where he got my name, but I have experience with Mr Seguine and it has not been good. Remember the godawful case of Wonn Road public beach access? The wealthy neighbor stealing the access hired none other than Tom Seguine to represent the neighbors in that case. In effect he was getting a second shot in court. Seguine demonstrated himself to be inarticulate, unprepared, and generally incompetent. Not what I would want to see on the Appellate court.
Ms Hazelrigg-Hernandez told me that Tom Seguine has been emphasizing the fact that he has practiced law for many more years than she. True enough. She then said that while quantity is a useful measure, one has to look more closely at quality, and she has the qualities to be a good judge. I agree with her.
In comparing their fields of law I note that Mr Seguine has been a prosecutor – on the accusatory side, while Ms Hazelrigg-Hernandez has been a defender – speaking for the accused who cannot speak for themselves. She also pointed out that perspective, point of view, and life experience go a long way toward tempering what a judge sees in the facts presented. What I see in Tom Seguine in this regard is your classic privileged white male representing that privilege. In his letter he emphasized his experience as a prosecutor. And of course he chose to represent the rich landowner against the public at Wonn Road.
What I see in Ms Hazelrigg-Hernandez is a passion for justice on behalf of those who rarely experience it. I asked her specifically how she would deal with those situations in which the facts and the law stand against her personal sympathies. She assured me that she was bound to uphold the law in spite of any such sympathies but added that there is a big emotional cost in having to rule against one’s own beliefs - but that is what the job requires so she would do it.
Ms Hazelrigg-Hernandez, after a rigorous vetting process, has been endorsed by Judge Becker, the respected and brilliant judge whose retirement is leaving this position open.
There is much much more to say, but in the interest of keeping this relatively short and sweet I will refrain. In this race we have a highly qualified, passionate, intellectually curious candidate as opposed to a white male darling of the Skagit County Republicans. I, for one, prefer a non-partisan judiciary.
I will be voting enthusiastically for Cecily Hazelrigg-Hernandez.
If you really want to go there, here are my notes from that long conversation. There are some gems in here.
10-15-18 notes of phone conversation with Cecily Hazelrigg-Hernandez
candidate for Court of Appeals, division 1
Ms H-H phoned a bit before noon. We finally got off the phone a bit after 3:00 pm. We had a great and wide-ranging conversation.
She says Tom Seguine is emphasizing his many years of experience. Ms H-H counters that while he may have the quantity, she has the quality, as shown by the endorsements of respected judges.
She is bi-lingual, Spanish and English, and is raising her 2 daughters in a bi-lingual environment. Her husband is an immigrant from Mexico. She herself is half Chicana. Her husband has recently founded a construction company with a partner.
She has practiced immigration law and taught at WWU.
As a public defender she deals with Spanish speaking immigrants. She initiated a policy concerning ICE detainers, both to clarify the process and to empower the defense.
As a student she worked as a paralegal, with a focus on family law, at the Spokane Child Abuse Prevention Center, in a program to help estranged fathers reconnect with their children.
In Skagit County she has done mostly criminal defense. There are heavy caseloads. She has worked two trials during the campaign so far and expects to do a third.
She was an independent attorney in Bellingham. When her elder daughter went to Evergreen, her younger daughter felt lonely so they moved to Mt Vernon.
Ms H-H grew up in Oak Harbor as a Navy brat. She mentioned that the places where she used to play in the woods are now housing developments, and lamented the loss.
We discussed Island Transit and its impact on people’s lives. She said that immigrants struggle with transportation issues. They often are unable to appear in court because their ride fell through or the bus was late or they couldn’t afford the bus. This tends to result in a bench warrant and a new felony charge. It is part of the criminalization of poverty. It places all sorts of extra burdens on an indigent defendant. We discussed options and I suggested a code change to allow people to phone in and explain their transportation problem to avoid the bench warrant. Ms H-H said that there were possibilities, but that most judges would not allow a Zoom or Skype appearance. She said phone calls are not accepted in court, so the defendant would need to phone the defense attorney before the trial, but that she knew Laura Riquelme (who was a Skagit Co Superior Court judge for a while), when she was a civil defense attorney, did use such a technique once. She thought the idea had merit and should be pursued. She pointed out that criminal law by its nature always has a Constitutional component.
She said she had not practiced civil law, but she knows the judicial standard of review, how to do legal analysis, and has the writing skills. All of these were part of the vetting process she underwent to earn the endorsement of the retiring Judge Becker. She describes the job in part as communicating the law effectively to the public.
She said Skagit deputy prosecutors are given great autonomy. She has heard of Jesse Eldred (recently hired as Island County civil deputy prosecutor). He prosecuted involuntary mental health commitments. He would have had good examples before him. The hearings are held in the mental hospital and the subject is not often present. There is one attorney in the office who represents the patients. There is precedent in the Trueblood case, Snohomish County v Western State Hospital. The hospital was slow to the point of negligence in providing documentation. This led to censures and fines, but ultimately little change in operations.
She said the Public Defender’s office puts out immediate fires, but can’t focus on systemic increase in these cases or the causes of that increase. Skagit County has suffered a major influx of mentally ill transients who have no solid connection to the community but have been given a bus ticket out of King County.
I asked what she thought might be the cause of this inordinate increase in mental illness. She replied that it was partly about drugs, but that Psychology Today claimed it had to do with social media. The claim is that adolescents suffer mental health problems because these social media are simultaneously anonymous and intimate. It described an epidemic of loneliness from lack of direct contact.
I asked what she thought of the opioid lawsuit. She said that Skagit County had joined, and the Prosecutor’s office had been asked to calculate how many cases might be drug related. They responded that it was impossible to determine, because there was no way to know whether a petty theft or a domestic violence situation was drug related.
She volunteered that she had handled the first appearance of the Skagit valve turners and the videographer recording the event. The valve turners are heroes of mine, but that’s a whole other story.
She reported that Tom Seguine had bought 2 billboards in Bellingham, was spending a good deal on advertising but that it seemed rather scattered and untargeted. She reported great crossover with the other primary candidates. She thought well of Rita Latsinova who has a daughter the same age as her own. Roger Leishman “seemed lovely” from their very brief contact. Lisa Keeler was ok but they had some differences. Mr Leishman endorsed her. There was no response from the other two. She said that the Becker endorsement “means a ton.” Judge Becker is respected and brilliant and she expects to follow in those footsteps.
I asked how she would deal with the fact that her personal sympathies might not be consistent with the law on a particular case. She assured me that she was bound to uphold the law in spite of any such sympathies. She continued that a judge’s life experience shapes their view of the facts. In the Appeals Court the facts are generally already established and all the judges are required to do is to follow the law and the reasoning of the trial court. There is a big emotional cost in having to rule against one’s own beliefs, but that is what the job requires.
I asked about legal citations and determining the validity of such citations. She replied that the vetting process included determining the validity of citations. She has never before had a law clerk and is used to doing her own research. She expects to mentor law clerks but not have them doing her homework. She has an intense personal dislike for typos (a woman after my own heart). If she found misleading or outright incorrect citations she would question counsel about them in open court.
I mentioned Arne Denny, former Island County civil deputy prosecutor who on one occasion severely abused a citation. Ms H-H said she had worked opposite Arne Denny in a case of civil quarantine. A man who spoke Spanish only was quarantined with a virulent case of drug resistant tuberculosis. The man continually violated the quarantine. Arne Denny was asking that the man be incarcerated until he no longer posed a threat. Ms H-H represented the man and translated for him. Eventually he agreed to be housed in the special medical unit of the Snohomish County jail. Ms H-H said that visiting him there involved wearing special face masks and 6 months of medical testing afterward.
She volunteered that as a judge she would experience great intellectual exercise and be able to dig into cases and issues.
She was an instructor at Huxley College (WWU) American Cultural program for 7 years, including teaching ESL in continuing education and a unit in Mexico. 3 of those years overlapped with working as a Skagit County public defender, which was a brutal workload.
She explained that the Court of Appeals has 3 divisions, NW WA, SW WA, E WA. The NW division includes King, Snohomish, Skagit, Whatcom, San Juan, and Island counties. SW includes the remainder of western Washington and E covers everything east of the mountains.
Division 1 has 10 judges. 7 of them sit in King County, 2 in Snohomish, and 1 covers the other 4 counties. They sit in panels of 3.
The entire Court of Appeals was created 40+ years ago (quite recently) to relieve the congestion at the Supreme Court level. That court hears cases on a discretionary basis. The Appeals Courts must hear all cases filed before them.
I asked what she thought of the Kavanaugh debacle. She replied that it had definitely affected the tone of appointments. She believes that integrity, fairness, and justice still matter. She was appalled at the way Kavanaugh refused to answer, threw questions back into Senators’ faces, and generally misbehaved. She said that she is physically small and unimposing but would be fierce as a judge if a defendant failed to respond in the way Kavanaugh had done. She said that trial experience matters so much to judicial officers. She said that any candidate needs to be ready to answer questions and own their past. Integrity and professional reputation really matter. She intends to try a clean case in every case. “I will own my mistakes and my humanity.”
She is a class A sex offense qualified defender, a qualified Spanish speaking defender, and qualified in indigent defense. The only qualification she lacks is in death penalty cases – but the death penalty has now been abolished.
I asked about the transition from public defender to judge. Ms H-H said that Judge Becker will remain until the end of the year so there can be a clean transition. Ms H-H is preparing extensive file notes and will be reviewing cases with her boss. The office will be posting the position as soon as the outcome of the election is known, so while there may be a little gap, her colleagues should be able to cover that.
Ms H-H volunteered that this was a very big, very hard decision. She was asked to run and spent months thinking about the implications.
I asked about strict construction and judicial activism, pointing out that with the new Supreme Court there is the very real chance that women will be further disenfranchised. The Constitution does not mention women. Could women be ordered off the court? Out of the Senate and the House? Ms H-H responded that she does not yet know her own judicial philosophy. Context matters. An independent judiciary is vital. She is very concerned about partisan judicial appointments.
Ms H-H has a strong background in community activism. Her BA is in social justice activism and the law. She is hopeful that the people, through public action, will change their government.
Snohomish PUD
Snohomish PUD
https://www.heraldnet.com/opinion/editorial-king-vaughn-for-snohomish-pud-posts/
https://www.heraldnet.com/news/pud-board-candidates-question-secrecy-in-ceo-hiring-process/
It seems the current board of the PUD are pushing forward with hiring a new CEO before the November election in which 2 of the 3 commission positions are up for election. Sorry, I’m not able to read the article because I don’t subscribe to the Herald, but the comments on Mary Rollins’ Facebook page indicate that she and others object to this course of action. She describes it as “business as usual – backroom negotiation.”
350 Everett held a public meeting last month to introduce their preferred candidates and to discuss the issues.
District 1
Mary Rollins https://www.facebook.com/Rollins4PUD
– Everett social services provider & former business owner. Represents herself as well-studied re PUD & the role of the board. Says PUD should be doing more to prioritize assistance for ratepayers on fixed incomes or with medical needs. From her Facebook page: “What a great turnout today for Climate Justice! So nice to meet so many folks who care about the planet !!”
Sid Logan, incumbent http://sidlogan.com/
– appointed 3-17 to replace resigning predecessor. Worked in the oil & gas industry. Became Arlington School District bus driver & operations manager. Retired 2016. Logan agrees there’s a need for rural broadband service, but says costs have to be considered. He says the PUD would consider allowing internet providers to use PUD utility poles & other infrastructure to extend that service. Logan supported the PUD’s tidal energy project (full disclosure: WEAN fought the proposal & organized the opposition) and points to PUD’s MESA battery work, which will be key to development of its pilot micro-grid project in Arlington. “Logan has demonstrated thoughtful consideration of issues before the board and a commitment to the concerns of ratepayers.”
– From the website: Our electricity is 98% carbon free and I am proud to support and participate in our new voluntary program, Carbon Solutions, that allows customers to reduce their carbon footprint even further by purchasing green energy blocks. I support customers who invest in renewable energy by installing solar panels, or by investing in our upcoming Community Solar project in Arlington.”
District 2
Rebecca Wolfe https://www.wolfeforgoodenergypud.com/
– offers a long list of community service, including on the Edmonds EDC, the committee on climate protection, and other environmental and conservation efforts. She has earned a Masters in environmental law and policy, and holds a PhD in leadership studies. She has done extensive research on NW power policy, which shows that energy efficiency has slowed growth in demand for new electricity, which she says should guide PUD decisions.
– from website: an environmental and fiscal champion. Has worked many years for good energy, and to create new jobs in renewables.
– “good energy = clean, reliable, renewable.
– “good jobs = living wage jobs that treat employees with respect & equity.
– “good governance = open, ethical, fiscally responsible & responsive to constituents who own the PUD.
David Chan http://nwasianweekly.com/2018/07/chan-eyes-snohomish-pud-board/
http://seattlechinesetimes.com/2018/07/25/david-chan/
Votechan03@gmail.com 425-453-5133
I found no campaign website or Facebook page, just stories in the Asian press.
– He offers a background in financial management (he’s a CPA). He would retain his Fire District 1 position, which takes a great deal of time. Chan was caught in a “hot mic” incident with a fellow fire commissioner, joking about hiring Mexican immigrants because it would be cheaper. Chan and the other commissioner apologized, but refused demands that they resign.
– “It is time for an outsider to have a fresh pair of eyes with new ideas to exercise more cost control and keep PUD rates low.”
– He wrote a blog about becoming a Bernie delegate in 2016.
– “ He is very disturbed by the current scandals and mismanagement of projects resulting in millions of dollars wasted. He has talked to engineers and found out that PUD does not have a good monitoring system for projects.”
Sno-PUD has 348k electric customers in SnoCo and Camano. It is managed by a 3 member board.
District 2 represents the southwest corner of Snohomish County, including Mukilteo, Lynnwood, and Edmonds.
District 1 represents the northern half of Snohomish County – Everett, Marysville, Granite Falls, Arlington, Darrington, Stanwood – and Camano.
I don’t live within the Snohomish PUD territory so don’t know the daily dealings there. I have had experience with SnoPUD trying to build tidal turbines near the Keystone Ferry dock and refusing to accept really basic environmental information about the potential impacts of their proposal. I found the recently retired CEO high-handed and arrogant.
I would be most interested in more information in support of the claim that SnoPUD is 98% carbon neutral. That just sounds a little bit too good to be true.
After research and evaluation, if I were to vote on Camano, I would be voting for:
Mary Rollins
Rebecca Wolfe
https://www.heraldnet.com/opinion/editorial-king-vaughn-for-snohomish-pud-posts/
https://www.heraldnet.com/news/pud-board-candidates-question-secrecy-in-ceo-hiring-process/
It seems the current board of the PUD are pushing forward with hiring a new CEO before the November election in which 2 of the 3 commission positions are up for election. Sorry, I’m not able to read the article because I don’t subscribe to the Herald, but the comments on Mary Rollins’ Facebook page indicate that she and others object to this course of action. She describes it as “business as usual – backroom negotiation.”
350 Everett held a public meeting last month to introduce their preferred candidates and to discuss the issues.
District 1
Mary Rollins https://www.facebook.com/Rollins4PUD
– Everett social services provider & former business owner. Represents herself as well-studied re PUD & the role of the board. Says PUD should be doing more to prioritize assistance for ratepayers on fixed incomes or with medical needs. From her Facebook page: “What a great turnout today for Climate Justice! So nice to meet so many folks who care about the planet !!”
Sid Logan, incumbent http://sidlogan.com/
– appointed 3-17 to replace resigning predecessor. Worked in the oil & gas industry. Became Arlington School District bus driver & operations manager. Retired 2016. Logan agrees there’s a need for rural broadband service, but says costs have to be considered. He says the PUD would consider allowing internet providers to use PUD utility poles & other infrastructure to extend that service. Logan supported the PUD’s tidal energy project (full disclosure: WEAN fought the proposal & organized the opposition) and points to PUD’s MESA battery work, which will be key to development of its pilot micro-grid project in Arlington. “Logan has demonstrated thoughtful consideration of issues before the board and a commitment to the concerns of ratepayers.”
– From the website: Our electricity is 98% carbon free and I am proud to support and participate in our new voluntary program, Carbon Solutions, that allows customers to reduce their carbon footprint even further by purchasing green energy blocks. I support customers who invest in renewable energy by installing solar panels, or by investing in our upcoming Community Solar project in Arlington.”
District 2
Rebecca Wolfe https://www.wolfeforgoodenergypud.com/
– offers a long list of community service, including on the Edmonds EDC, the committee on climate protection, and other environmental and conservation efforts. She has earned a Masters in environmental law and policy, and holds a PhD in leadership studies. She has done extensive research on NW power policy, which shows that energy efficiency has slowed growth in demand for new electricity, which she says should guide PUD decisions.
– from website: an environmental and fiscal champion. Has worked many years for good energy, and to create new jobs in renewables.
– “good energy = clean, reliable, renewable.
– “good jobs = living wage jobs that treat employees with respect & equity.
– “good governance = open, ethical, fiscally responsible & responsive to constituents who own the PUD.
David Chan http://nwasianweekly.com/2018/07/chan-eyes-snohomish-pud-board/
http://seattlechinesetimes.com/2018/07/25/david-chan/
Votechan03@gmail.com 425-453-5133
I found no campaign website or Facebook page, just stories in the Asian press.
– He offers a background in financial management (he’s a CPA). He would retain his Fire District 1 position, which takes a great deal of time. Chan was caught in a “hot mic” incident with a fellow fire commissioner, joking about hiring Mexican immigrants because it would be cheaper. Chan and the other commissioner apologized, but refused demands that they resign.
– “It is time for an outsider to have a fresh pair of eyes with new ideas to exercise more cost control and keep PUD rates low.”
– He wrote a blog about becoming a Bernie delegate in 2016.
– “ He is very disturbed by the current scandals and mismanagement of projects resulting in millions of dollars wasted. He has talked to engineers and found out that PUD does not have a good monitoring system for projects.”
Sno-PUD has 348k electric customers in SnoCo and Camano. It is managed by a 3 member board.
District 2 represents the southwest corner of Snohomish County, including Mukilteo, Lynnwood, and Edmonds.
District 1 represents the northern half of Snohomish County – Everett, Marysville, Granite Falls, Arlington, Darrington, Stanwood – and Camano.
I don’t live within the Snohomish PUD territory so don’t know the daily dealings there. I have had experience with SnoPUD trying to build tidal turbines near the Keystone Ferry dock and refusing to accept really basic environmental information about the potential impacts of their proposal. I found the recently retired CEO high-handed and arrogant.
I would be most interested in more information in support of the claim that SnoPUD is 98% carbon neutral. That just sounds a little bit too good to be true.
After research and evaluation, if I were to vote on Camano, I would be voting for:
Mary Rollins
Rebecca Wolfe
Sunday, October 7, 2018
Notes from 10-2-18 candidates' night in Freeland
notes of 10-2-18 Candidate night at Trinity Lutheran Church
hosted by League of Women Voters and Sno-Isle Libraries
Thanks again to the League and Sno-Isle Libraries
I counted the number of chairs in the undersized room and there were more than 100. There were people arrayed around the walls and more jammed in the hallway. My guess is that there were in the range of 200 people.
Barbara Seitle of the League moderated, and opened with an admonition to vote early because ballots mailed on Tuesday, November 6, may not be postmarked that day and so will not be counted. Ballots will be mailed October 19, so look for them in your mail. If you don’t have them by October 21, contact Island County Elections at 360-679-7366 or elections@co.island.wa.us
Barbara informed us that the League of Women Voters has prepared 1 page summaries of ballot issues. I was not able to find those summaries on their website, so don’t know where to send you.
You will find the occasional editorial comment in (parentheses). I just couldn't be completely objective in my reporting.
State Representative, legislative district 10
position 1
Scott McMullen – D
Norma Smith – R, incumbent
position 2
Dave Paul – D
Dave Hayes – R, incumbent
1. Do you believe the legislature should be exempt from the Public Records Act? (background: in the last legislative session there was a bill to exempt the legislature from the Public Records Act. It failed.)
Scott McMullen – I believe in open, transparent government, so no, the legislature should no be exempt.
Norma Smith – No, there should be no exemption. I failed to vote on that issue because I was attending the funeral of my mother-in-law. There are some issues which should remain private and we have a task force working on that. We need to be sensitive to personal information. (background: as with so many really telling votes, Norma did not vote on this bill)
Dave Paul – Its important. I am subject to Public Disclosure in my work at Skagit Valley College. This was a mistake by the legislature and my opponent. There can be limited exemptions for sensitive records. Otherwise, everything should be subject to public disclosure.
Dave Hayes – This is a critical issue. The legislature should comply with the Public Records Act. This was a Democrats’ bill. We need to recognize the history. We always comply in my office. There was (time’s up) a much better bill . . . (background: he co-sponsored a bill to charge fees for public information request responses. He voted YES on the bill to exempt the legislature from disclosure)
2. What do you think about the McCleary decision and funding for education?
Norma Smith – We’ve done extraordinary work on this issue. In 8 years we have doubled the budget for education. The McCleary case has been closed. This is a 2 year process and we’re now working on levy swaps. The Democrats passed the bill. We’ve doubled education funding. We’re getting input from educators and taxpayers. There is a huge bill to be paid. (time)
Dave Paul – This is an important issue. The property tax increase was a Republican proposal. It was not bipartisan and its wrong. Special Education remains unfunded. HB 1377 would have helped but my opponent voted against it.
Dave Hayes – I was on the House Education committee for 4 years and have learned something of the issues. I agree that special education and counselors are unfunded mandates. I am against unfunded mandates and sometimes the only way to show my opposition is to vote no. We need to restructure teacher salaries (time) . . .
Scott McMullen – Education is one of my top issues. I have 8 children. Dealing with McCleary and teacher raises are all a game of catch-up. They’ve been underpaid for years. Para-educators are still underpaid. We’re still losing teachers to states which pay better. Our children deserve better than mere “basic” education.
3. What is your position on the sale of military style weapons?
Dave Paul – I am not a fan of these weapons. The debate has been framed by extremists. I disagree with the NRA. Check out the Alliance For Gun Safety. The brains of 18 year olds are not sufficiently developed to make life and death decisions. I’m not sure when our brains are sufficiently developed and some may never be. Yes, we need to limit access to these weapons.
Dave Hayes – One man’s military style rifle is another man’s sporting rifle. (The audience burst into incredulous laughter). Its not gun control. We have a constitutional right to own guns. We need to adopt rules against using guns against other people. I support House bill 1501 (background: Hayes co-sponsored 1501, which protects law enforcement and the public from persons who illegally attempt to obtain firearms. His voting record is full of pro-gun, anti-gun-control votes).
Scott McMullen – I’m not anti-gun. I own hunting rifles but they’re safely stored. I was in the military for 27 years. Assault weapons do not belong in the general population. I’m against such things as bump stocks. My son had trouble in his classes because he was busy trying to figure out how to evacuate the school.
Norma Smith – There are two parts to this issue. First is the Constitution. The second is reasonable gun control. A legislative committee controls that process. My focus is on the need for mental health services (time). We know those issues (background: Norma consistently votes pro-gun, anti-control).
4. Washington has the country’s most regressive tax structure. What are its failures and how can we improve on it?
Dave Hayes – The worst is the B&O tax since it is levied on total receipts instead of just on profits. We need to look at how to change that. The state’s revenues increase every year, this year by $1.2 billion – this biennium by $328 million and next biennium by $443 million (background: I’ve been trying to figure out the numbers he was throwing out, since they seem to be inconsistent. I haven’t figured it out). (time) We have to weigh the income vs expenditures.
Scot McMullen – Yes, Washington’s tax structure is very regressive, which makes it very unfair. Poor people pay 20% of their income in taxes while the wealthy pay only 2%. We need to walk back those 600+ tax breaks for corporations. Those corporations are not fulfilling the promises on which those tax breaks were based (background: we’re mainly talking about Boeing, which received exemption from both B&O and sales tax in exchange for a promise to build the 777 in Washington).
Norma Smith – Yes, the tax base is unfair, with property taxes, B&O tax, sales tax. There is much criticism of this system but people have clearly rejected the income tax. We need to think differently. There are some 2500 – 4000 data suppliers (time) who need to be taxed.
Dave Paul – Yes, the tax structure is unfair. Corporations are not paying their fair share. They are not fulfilling the promises on which those tax breaks are based. We can’t just waive the B&O tax.
5. The Dept of Ecology says that climate change is shrinking the snowpack in the mountains, which is reducing the amount of water in our rivers, which is harming our citizens. How do you propose to deal with this?
Dave Hayes – Yes, the climate is changing. The question is how to deal with that. We have high standards for industry. We’re already doing it right. Any new standards will affect jobs and our state’s competitive advantages.(background: Hayes consistently votes anti-environment).
Dave Paul – Environmental issues are the biggest difference between my opponent and myself. My opponent voted against a whole collection of environmental bills. Our tourism, fishing, and agriculture depend on a clean environment.
Norma Smith – We’re already doing an enormous amount. We’re spending more than $100 million on school health. We’re working on forest health. Dept of Natural Resources gave me an award for my leadership in forest restoration (background: I’ve got a call in to DNR inquiring about this claim). We’ve been negotiating for 4 years on a solar energy bill (time). We’re doing lots of work . . .
Scott McMullen – Yes, we’re behind the 8 ball. We need to do a whole lot of things to protect our waters, our salmon, our Orcas. We can’t deny climate change any more. We need to pass regulations to control oil spills, toxic runoff – we need clean water for our Orcas and salmon.
Dave Hayes uses one of his challenges – When we pass bills we have to check what benefits they will yield. The bills cited by Dave Paul were partisan bills.
Dave Paul responds – All of those bills had broad bipartisan support.
6. How can the legislature support increased mental health and addiction support?
Dave Paul – I’ve heard about this from everyone. We need to treat this as a community problem. The number of medical providers in rural areas is too low. Such support would save money, prevent homelessness, and help people.
Norma Smith – I wrote the mental health budget. There’s no one home on the executive side on this issue. I brought people together and wrote the house budget on this. This year there is $180 million in the capital budget.
Scott McMullen – Any investment in mental health care is well spent. I toured Ryan’s House. They are doing great work with young people. Norma Smith blocked a $220k grant to Ryan’s House.
Dave Hayes – I am very proud of having funded a facility in Oak Harbor. I work at the street level. Police and counselors are partners in this. We work to get people off the street and into services.
Norma Smith uses one of her challenges – Are you aware that each county has a designated authority for those grants? Island County Human Services did not recommend that grant.
Scott McMullen responds – I did not rely on just one person’s report. The whole staff explained the situation.
7. Which of the programs listed in I-1631 would you implement?
Norma Smith – There are 64 public utilities in Washington. The 3 investor owned utilities serve 45% of the population. 100% of utilities which rely on fossil fuels are still charging clean energy fees. We need to electrify the transportation grid. We need to build out community solar.(time)
Scott McMullen – Island Transit is moving to clean buses. We need to protect both workers and the environment. I want to see apprenticeships in green energy.
Dave Hayes – The largest emitters are exempt, so who ends up paying for this? Consumers will pay the most. We could provide incentives for electric cars. (time) Also, we could support solar power.
Dave Paul – I want the 10th legislative district to be a leader in solar and wind power installation. We have the schools and the union labor. We can add jobs to the workforce. Once those wind and solar are installed they will need to be maintained, which will generate more jobs.
8. Please tell us whatever you like. You have 2 minutes each.
Norma Smith – I was appointed in 2008 and expected to serve only one term, but there are issues of such significance that I feel I need to stay on to represent you. I am your neighbor. I live in Clinton. I’m from a military family. I’ve got cards out in the hall with a partial list of all the work I’ve done and am doing. Data privacy and net neutrality are big issues for me. We have a house committee on this issue, with 3 Republicans and 3 Democrats. We want to create a new office of privacy and data protection. I am the mother of the eastern Washington forest health program, which I started 10 years ago.
Scott McMullen – I’m Scott McMullen. I live in Mt Vernon where I am a firefighter. I have 8 children. My father was in the state legislature and the state senate. I served 2 terms on the Mt Vernon city council. I have served on many (sorry, I didn’t catch them all) boards in Skagit County. I am part of various civic clubs, one of which built the splash park in Mt Vernon. I will work hard to protect the environment, fully fund education, improve transportation, and protect workers and workers’ rights.
Dave Hayes – Thank you. I’ve been a state representative for 6 years and a cop for 24 years. I live on Camano Island. I have two grown sons. One works for Homeland Security in Alabama. My priorities are education, law enforcement and firefighters, and the Snohomish County Diversion Center. Mental health and addiction need more work. I’m still working on capital facilities. We need to work more on enforcement . . .(time)
Dave Paul – I’m a parent, an educator at Skagit Valley College. I've been going door to door meeting voters and listening to their priorities. My issues are education, jobs, mental health and addiction, and homelessness. I will represent everybody and assure that all voices are heard.
Island County Commissioner, District 3
Janet St Clair – D
Rick Hannold – R, incumbent
1. Are 3 county commissioners an adequate number? How would you change that?
Janet St Clair – We need to wait for the next census. The population is growing and we may need to make changes in response. Lets revisit this after the 2020 census.
Rick Hannold – To change that number we would need to institute a charter government, which requires a lot of time and voter approval. 5 commissioners would be a good number.
(background: if you’re interested, I have written a quick tutorial on the Charter process. It is most definitely NOT a simple process. Email me for a copy.)
2. District 3 is geographically split. What issues does this generate?
Rick Hannold – It creates both opportunity and challenges. It does take a lot of time. I hold office hours on Camano and maintain my north Whidbey contacts. North Whidbey is rural, but with the Navy. Camano is mostly retired people, young families, and a lot of summer homes. Lots of people know they’re being heard. We’re working on the Housing Element of the comp plan. Everybody is heard, but not everybody is satisfied.
Janet St Clair – 68% of the people in the district live on Camano and they feel under-represented. There are the access issues. Transportation, jobs, and medical care are major issues. I will be present in my own community.
Rick Hannold uses one of his challenges – My predecessors have all come from Camano. Only 2 in the last 38 years have not been from Camano.
Janet St Clair – Camano did not feel represented by Kelly Emerson.
3. How would you improve mobility and transportation?
Janet St Clair – We need to pay attention to the ferry system and its advisory committees. North Whidbey access via the bridge is important. The only access to Camano is Hwy 532. We need to work with WSDOT on traffic studies.
Rick Hannold – Yes, that’s a big concern. We commissioners are very active with Washington State Ferries and WSDOT. I sit on the Island Transit board. It was a major issue for us to keep the #411 bus route to Camano.
4. How do you propose to deal with Dept of Ecology, climate change, and the water supply?
Rich Hannold – We have a robust water program and many water resources. We have the Clean Water Utility (background: this one gagged me, since it was Angie Homola’s hard work and persistence which forced this into existence). We work with our advisory committees. We’re looking to go to phase 2 of the Clean Water Utility (background: more gag – in 2016 there was $1 mil in the CWU account to start phase 2. Hannold and Jill refused to release the funds). We’re working to prevent saltwater intrusion. We have a very robust program.
Janet St Clair – We in western Washington are lucky with regard to climate change, which is bringing us warmer wetter winters. Most of us have wells into our aquifer. Oak Harbor has a problem. It is impacted by the lack of snow, which leads to lower flows in the Skagit River. Saltwater intrusion is indeed an issue. And now we’re dealing with PFOA and, on Camano, arsenic.
5. What progress have you seen at the Island County jail?
Janet St Clair – There have been major improvements. We need to research the work flow in Law and Justice. It is not appropriate to simply put equal numbers of officers in each of the 3 districts. There has to be an accounting for the time involved in transporting people between the islands.
Rick Hannold – I’m very proud of the improvements at the jail. I want to work on work release for non-violent offenders. I want to see jail diversion.
6. What is the role of the commissioners in mental health services?
Rick Hannold – We’ve secured $4 million for the Oak Harbor facility, to build a detox and stabilization center. We need increased school based mental health counselors and human services mental health outreach.
Janet St Clair – I helped develop one of the first integrated mental health programs in Washington. It decreased costs and improved outcomes. We need more resources to do that here.
7. What is the role of Island County in affordable housing?
Janet St Clair – Island County is not a housing provider. There are different housing needs. There are homeless housing, workforce housing, and senior housing. I want to encourage low impact development and accessory dwellings. I want to increase density and infill in Oak Harbor, to build up and not out. I want to work with housing providers. No one should be in unstable housing.
Rick Hannold – The commissioners just passed the Housing Element of the comp plan. It is a blueprint for action. We want to increase density in Urban Growth Areas and in Rural Areas of Increased Density (background: that is a non-starter because RAIDs are limited by state law). We need more flexibility in the Growth Management Act (background: that’s the law which limits RAIDs). We want to lower permit fees and reduce permit wait times (background: there is no evidence that this does anything to create more housing or to reduce the cost to the residents).
8. Please tell us, in 2 minutes, whatever you like.
Rick Hannold – I appreciate the warmth and the large turnout. Island County will lead the state in terms of voter turnout. We’re working hard to bring common sense to government. Its not perfect, but your tax dollars are being invested wisely. We’re working on transitioning to a 2 year budget cycle. Budgets will be outcome based. We’re developing metrics to measure progress.
Janet St Clair – Thank you, and please vote for me. Democracy works when we all show up. Lets end the divisive rhetoric. I’m a moderate Democrat and I advocate responsive and respectful leadership. I will represent all the people. I want to work for thriving families in a strong community in a clean environment.
Island County Sheriff
Rick Felici – R
Lane Campbell – R
1. How do you feel about deputies carrying Narcan for rescuing drug overdosed people?
Lane Campbell – We have Narcan now. We carry Naloxone in our vehicles. I have no issue with it. Our job is the preservation of life. I think its an awesome alternative.
Rick Felici – I agree. I’m glad we have it. Originally there was some resistance, but that was overcome with education. It is an outstanding addition.
2. How do you propose to combat drug related crimes?
Rick Felici – With education, enforcement, and treatment. Those resistant to services will go into the legal system. We work with the county commissioners, with tax funded agencies, and with the faith based community.
Lane Campbell – I would love to get back into the school system. Get young kids used to us. I want full time drug enforcement and a k-9 unit.
3. How do you propose to deal with mental health problems?
Lane Campbell – I’ve been working the streets for 37 years, every day. You can lead a horse to water but you can’t make them drink. We all go through de-escalation training. I want these people looked after before they go to jail. I want a field program.
Rick Felici – I advocate for contact anywhere and everywhere. We have limited response options. The good news is the proposed Oak Harbor facility. I believe in collaboration. Now we have the potential for a mental health worker.
4. What is your position on I-940, requiring de-escalation training? (background: 940 requires de-escalation training for cops, requires them to have first aid training – yeah, really, that is not required now – and sets standards for use of deadly force).
Rick Felici – I’ve had a lot of conversations about this. This is not the sky falling. We already have significant de-escalation training in Washington. Its about the rules around deadly force. There will be no huge impact on how we do our jobs.
Lane Campbell – We train all the time in de-escalation. We’re top notch. I’ve been doing first aid for 37 years. As for the deadly force issue, we train and train.
5. What are the most concerning types of crime in Island County and how do you propose to reduce those?
Lane Campbell – Its all drug related. People are getting into homes and vehicles. It’s a societal problem. Many of the homeless are part of the community and we will protect them.
Rick Felici – All crime concerns me, but I agree that much of it is related to drugs and mental health. We lack a process and we lack the staff to deal with it adequately. Its important to increase staff. Common sense . . .(time)
6. In 2015 the 21st Century Policing Initiative was adopted. Which strategies are being used? Which ones do you like?
Rick Felici – That document is just a description of good policing. It relates to service, standards, the relationship with the community, and training. It feels like a model of what we’re already doing.
Lane Campbell – My job as sheriff is to work with you and your communities. I’ve been doing that all my career. The job is to organize groups. We need to bridge the gap between the sheriff and the community.
7. What will be your policy concerning undocumented people?
Lane Campbell – Yeah, we have a policy: don’t seek out illegals. They’re no problem. They have the same problems as everyone else. No, we don’t turn them over to ICE. If a criminal warrant exists, we will hand them over.
Rick Felici – Our office has a robust policy, as recommended by the Attorney General and supported by federal case law and the 21st Century Policing Initiative. Its not an issue. We don’t ask people their immigration status. We treat people fairly regardless.
8. In 2 minutes, tell us whatever you like.
Rick Felici – (he displays a wry sense of humor). I’m very encouraged by the numbers. This is my first political foray. I want to build a better office. We already have a solid foundation. We need to overcome the negativity about police. We need to take responsibility for our actions and work with and for you. We need to improve communications.
Lane Campbell – I’ve been an Island County sheriff for 28 years and a cop for 37 years. I’ve worked under 5 chiefs. I’ve seen what works. I want to get the drug dealers off the street. I want to help people with drug issues and mental health. I have vast experience. My dad is 84 years old and he busts his butt every day. I follow his example. I’m not the guy sitting in an office. I’ll be in my car and available to you.
hosted by League of Women Voters and Sno-Isle Libraries
Thanks again to the League and Sno-Isle Libraries
I counted the number of chairs in the undersized room and there were more than 100. There were people arrayed around the walls and more jammed in the hallway. My guess is that there were in the range of 200 people.
Barbara Seitle of the League moderated, and opened with an admonition to vote early because ballots mailed on Tuesday, November 6, may not be postmarked that day and so will not be counted. Ballots will be mailed October 19, so look for them in your mail. If you don’t have them by October 21, contact Island County Elections at 360-679-7366 or elections@co.island.wa.us
Barbara informed us that the League of Women Voters has prepared 1 page summaries of ballot issues. I was not able to find those summaries on their website, so don’t know where to send you.
You will find the occasional editorial comment in (parentheses). I just couldn't be completely objective in my reporting.
State Representative, legislative district 10
position 1
Scott McMullen – D
Norma Smith – R, incumbent
position 2
Dave Paul – D
Dave Hayes – R, incumbent
1. Do you believe the legislature should be exempt from the Public Records Act? (background: in the last legislative session there was a bill to exempt the legislature from the Public Records Act. It failed.)
Scott McMullen – I believe in open, transparent government, so no, the legislature should no be exempt.
Norma Smith – No, there should be no exemption. I failed to vote on that issue because I was attending the funeral of my mother-in-law. There are some issues which should remain private and we have a task force working on that. We need to be sensitive to personal information. (background: as with so many really telling votes, Norma did not vote on this bill)
Dave Paul – Its important. I am subject to Public Disclosure in my work at Skagit Valley College. This was a mistake by the legislature and my opponent. There can be limited exemptions for sensitive records. Otherwise, everything should be subject to public disclosure.
Dave Hayes – This is a critical issue. The legislature should comply with the Public Records Act. This was a Democrats’ bill. We need to recognize the history. We always comply in my office. There was (time’s up) a much better bill . . . (background: he co-sponsored a bill to charge fees for public information request responses. He voted YES on the bill to exempt the legislature from disclosure)
2. What do you think about the McCleary decision and funding for education?
Norma Smith – We’ve done extraordinary work on this issue. In 8 years we have doubled the budget for education. The McCleary case has been closed. This is a 2 year process and we’re now working on levy swaps. The Democrats passed the bill. We’ve doubled education funding. We’re getting input from educators and taxpayers. There is a huge bill to be paid. (time)
Dave Paul – This is an important issue. The property tax increase was a Republican proposal. It was not bipartisan and its wrong. Special Education remains unfunded. HB 1377 would have helped but my opponent voted against it.
Dave Hayes – I was on the House Education committee for 4 years and have learned something of the issues. I agree that special education and counselors are unfunded mandates. I am against unfunded mandates and sometimes the only way to show my opposition is to vote no. We need to restructure teacher salaries (time) . . .
Scott McMullen – Education is one of my top issues. I have 8 children. Dealing with McCleary and teacher raises are all a game of catch-up. They’ve been underpaid for years. Para-educators are still underpaid. We’re still losing teachers to states which pay better. Our children deserve better than mere “basic” education.
3. What is your position on the sale of military style weapons?
Dave Paul – I am not a fan of these weapons. The debate has been framed by extremists. I disagree with the NRA. Check out the Alliance For Gun Safety. The brains of 18 year olds are not sufficiently developed to make life and death decisions. I’m not sure when our brains are sufficiently developed and some may never be. Yes, we need to limit access to these weapons.
Dave Hayes – One man’s military style rifle is another man’s sporting rifle. (The audience burst into incredulous laughter). Its not gun control. We have a constitutional right to own guns. We need to adopt rules against using guns against other people. I support House bill 1501 (background: Hayes co-sponsored 1501, which protects law enforcement and the public from persons who illegally attempt to obtain firearms. His voting record is full of pro-gun, anti-gun-control votes).
Scott McMullen – I’m not anti-gun. I own hunting rifles but they’re safely stored. I was in the military for 27 years. Assault weapons do not belong in the general population. I’m against such things as bump stocks. My son had trouble in his classes because he was busy trying to figure out how to evacuate the school.
Norma Smith – There are two parts to this issue. First is the Constitution. The second is reasonable gun control. A legislative committee controls that process. My focus is on the need for mental health services (time). We know those issues (background: Norma consistently votes pro-gun, anti-control).
4. Washington has the country’s most regressive tax structure. What are its failures and how can we improve on it?
Dave Hayes – The worst is the B&O tax since it is levied on total receipts instead of just on profits. We need to look at how to change that. The state’s revenues increase every year, this year by $1.2 billion – this biennium by $328 million and next biennium by $443 million (background: I’ve been trying to figure out the numbers he was throwing out, since they seem to be inconsistent. I haven’t figured it out). (time) We have to weigh the income vs expenditures.
Scot McMullen – Yes, Washington’s tax structure is very regressive, which makes it very unfair. Poor people pay 20% of their income in taxes while the wealthy pay only 2%. We need to walk back those 600+ tax breaks for corporations. Those corporations are not fulfilling the promises on which those tax breaks were based (background: we’re mainly talking about Boeing, which received exemption from both B&O and sales tax in exchange for a promise to build the 777 in Washington).
Norma Smith – Yes, the tax base is unfair, with property taxes, B&O tax, sales tax. There is much criticism of this system but people have clearly rejected the income tax. We need to think differently. There are some 2500 – 4000 data suppliers (time) who need to be taxed.
Dave Paul – Yes, the tax structure is unfair. Corporations are not paying their fair share. They are not fulfilling the promises on which those tax breaks are based. We can’t just waive the B&O tax.
5. The Dept of Ecology says that climate change is shrinking the snowpack in the mountains, which is reducing the amount of water in our rivers, which is harming our citizens. How do you propose to deal with this?
Dave Hayes – Yes, the climate is changing. The question is how to deal with that. We have high standards for industry. We’re already doing it right. Any new standards will affect jobs and our state’s competitive advantages.(background: Hayes consistently votes anti-environment).
Dave Paul – Environmental issues are the biggest difference between my opponent and myself. My opponent voted against a whole collection of environmental bills. Our tourism, fishing, and agriculture depend on a clean environment.
Norma Smith – We’re already doing an enormous amount. We’re spending more than $100 million on school health. We’re working on forest health. Dept of Natural Resources gave me an award for my leadership in forest restoration (background: I’ve got a call in to DNR inquiring about this claim). We’ve been negotiating for 4 years on a solar energy bill (time). We’re doing lots of work . . .
Scott McMullen – Yes, we’re behind the 8 ball. We need to do a whole lot of things to protect our waters, our salmon, our Orcas. We can’t deny climate change any more. We need to pass regulations to control oil spills, toxic runoff – we need clean water for our Orcas and salmon.
Dave Hayes uses one of his challenges – When we pass bills we have to check what benefits they will yield. The bills cited by Dave Paul were partisan bills.
Dave Paul responds – All of those bills had broad bipartisan support.
6. How can the legislature support increased mental health and addiction support?
Dave Paul – I’ve heard about this from everyone. We need to treat this as a community problem. The number of medical providers in rural areas is too low. Such support would save money, prevent homelessness, and help people.
Norma Smith – I wrote the mental health budget. There’s no one home on the executive side on this issue. I brought people together and wrote the house budget on this. This year there is $180 million in the capital budget.
Scott McMullen – Any investment in mental health care is well spent. I toured Ryan’s House. They are doing great work with young people. Norma Smith blocked a $220k grant to Ryan’s House.
Dave Hayes – I am very proud of having funded a facility in Oak Harbor. I work at the street level. Police and counselors are partners in this. We work to get people off the street and into services.
Norma Smith uses one of her challenges – Are you aware that each county has a designated authority for those grants? Island County Human Services did not recommend that grant.
Scott McMullen responds – I did not rely on just one person’s report. The whole staff explained the situation.
7. Which of the programs listed in I-1631 would you implement?
Norma Smith – There are 64 public utilities in Washington. The 3 investor owned utilities serve 45% of the population. 100% of utilities which rely on fossil fuels are still charging clean energy fees. We need to electrify the transportation grid. We need to build out community solar.(time)
Scott McMullen – Island Transit is moving to clean buses. We need to protect both workers and the environment. I want to see apprenticeships in green energy.
Dave Hayes – The largest emitters are exempt, so who ends up paying for this? Consumers will pay the most. We could provide incentives for electric cars. (time) Also, we could support solar power.
Dave Paul – I want the 10th legislative district to be a leader in solar and wind power installation. We have the schools and the union labor. We can add jobs to the workforce. Once those wind and solar are installed they will need to be maintained, which will generate more jobs.
8. Please tell us whatever you like. You have 2 minutes each.
Norma Smith – I was appointed in 2008 and expected to serve only one term, but there are issues of such significance that I feel I need to stay on to represent you. I am your neighbor. I live in Clinton. I’m from a military family. I’ve got cards out in the hall with a partial list of all the work I’ve done and am doing. Data privacy and net neutrality are big issues for me. We have a house committee on this issue, with 3 Republicans and 3 Democrats. We want to create a new office of privacy and data protection. I am the mother of the eastern Washington forest health program, which I started 10 years ago.
Scott McMullen – I’m Scott McMullen. I live in Mt Vernon where I am a firefighter. I have 8 children. My father was in the state legislature and the state senate. I served 2 terms on the Mt Vernon city council. I have served on many (sorry, I didn’t catch them all) boards in Skagit County. I am part of various civic clubs, one of which built the splash park in Mt Vernon. I will work hard to protect the environment, fully fund education, improve transportation, and protect workers and workers’ rights.
Dave Hayes – Thank you. I’ve been a state representative for 6 years and a cop for 24 years. I live on Camano Island. I have two grown sons. One works for Homeland Security in Alabama. My priorities are education, law enforcement and firefighters, and the Snohomish County Diversion Center. Mental health and addiction need more work. I’m still working on capital facilities. We need to work more on enforcement . . .(time)
Dave Paul – I’m a parent, an educator at Skagit Valley College. I've been going door to door meeting voters and listening to their priorities. My issues are education, jobs, mental health and addiction, and homelessness. I will represent everybody and assure that all voices are heard.
Island County Commissioner, District 3
Janet St Clair – D
Rick Hannold – R, incumbent
1. Are 3 county commissioners an adequate number? How would you change that?
Janet St Clair – We need to wait for the next census. The population is growing and we may need to make changes in response. Lets revisit this after the 2020 census.
Rick Hannold – To change that number we would need to institute a charter government, which requires a lot of time and voter approval. 5 commissioners would be a good number.
(background: if you’re interested, I have written a quick tutorial on the Charter process. It is most definitely NOT a simple process. Email me for a copy.)
2. District 3 is geographically split. What issues does this generate?
Rick Hannold – It creates both opportunity and challenges. It does take a lot of time. I hold office hours on Camano and maintain my north Whidbey contacts. North Whidbey is rural, but with the Navy. Camano is mostly retired people, young families, and a lot of summer homes. Lots of people know they’re being heard. We’re working on the Housing Element of the comp plan. Everybody is heard, but not everybody is satisfied.
Janet St Clair – 68% of the people in the district live on Camano and they feel under-represented. There are the access issues. Transportation, jobs, and medical care are major issues. I will be present in my own community.
Rick Hannold uses one of his challenges – My predecessors have all come from Camano. Only 2 in the last 38 years have not been from Camano.
Janet St Clair – Camano did not feel represented by Kelly Emerson.
3. How would you improve mobility and transportation?
Janet St Clair – We need to pay attention to the ferry system and its advisory committees. North Whidbey access via the bridge is important. The only access to Camano is Hwy 532. We need to work with WSDOT on traffic studies.
Rick Hannold – Yes, that’s a big concern. We commissioners are very active with Washington State Ferries and WSDOT. I sit on the Island Transit board. It was a major issue for us to keep the #411 bus route to Camano.
4. How do you propose to deal with Dept of Ecology, climate change, and the water supply?
Rich Hannold – We have a robust water program and many water resources. We have the Clean Water Utility (background: this one gagged me, since it was Angie Homola’s hard work and persistence which forced this into existence). We work with our advisory committees. We’re looking to go to phase 2 of the Clean Water Utility (background: more gag – in 2016 there was $1 mil in the CWU account to start phase 2. Hannold and Jill refused to release the funds). We’re working to prevent saltwater intrusion. We have a very robust program.
Janet St Clair – We in western Washington are lucky with regard to climate change, which is bringing us warmer wetter winters. Most of us have wells into our aquifer. Oak Harbor has a problem. It is impacted by the lack of snow, which leads to lower flows in the Skagit River. Saltwater intrusion is indeed an issue. And now we’re dealing with PFOA and, on Camano, arsenic.
5. What progress have you seen at the Island County jail?
Janet St Clair – There have been major improvements. We need to research the work flow in Law and Justice. It is not appropriate to simply put equal numbers of officers in each of the 3 districts. There has to be an accounting for the time involved in transporting people between the islands.
Rick Hannold – I’m very proud of the improvements at the jail. I want to work on work release for non-violent offenders. I want to see jail diversion.
6. What is the role of the commissioners in mental health services?
Rick Hannold – We’ve secured $4 million for the Oak Harbor facility, to build a detox and stabilization center. We need increased school based mental health counselors and human services mental health outreach.
Janet St Clair – I helped develop one of the first integrated mental health programs in Washington. It decreased costs and improved outcomes. We need more resources to do that here.
7. What is the role of Island County in affordable housing?
Janet St Clair – Island County is not a housing provider. There are different housing needs. There are homeless housing, workforce housing, and senior housing. I want to encourage low impact development and accessory dwellings. I want to increase density and infill in Oak Harbor, to build up and not out. I want to work with housing providers. No one should be in unstable housing.
Rick Hannold – The commissioners just passed the Housing Element of the comp plan. It is a blueprint for action. We want to increase density in Urban Growth Areas and in Rural Areas of Increased Density (background: that is a non-starter because RAIDs are limited by state law). We need more flexibility in the Growth Management Act (background: that’s the law which limits RAIDs). We want to lower permit fees and reduce permit wait times (background: there is no evidence that this does anything to create more housing or to reduce the cost to the residents).
8. Please tell us, in 2 minutes, whatever you like.
Rick Hannold – I appreciate the warmth and the large turnout. Island County will lead the state in terms of voter turnout. We’re working hard to bring common sense to government. Its not perfect, but your tax dollars are being invested wisely. We’re working on transitioning to a 2 year budget cycle. Budgets will be outcome based. We’re developing metrics to measure progress.
Janet St Clair – Thank you, and please vote for me. Democracy works when we all show up. Lets end the divisive rhetoric. I’m a moderate Democrat and I advocate responsive and respectful leadership. I will represent all the people. I want to work for thriving families in a strong community in a clean environment.
Island County Sheriff
Rick Felici – R
Lane Campbell – R
1. How do you feel about deputies carrying Narcan for rescuing drug overdosed people?
Lane Campbell – We have Narcan now. We carry Naloxone in our vehicles. I have no issue with it. Our job is the preservation of life. I think its an awesome alternative.
Rick Felici – I agree. I’m glad we have it. Originally there was some resistance, but that was overcome with education. It is an outstanding addition.
2. How do you propose to combat drug related crimes?
Rick Felici – With education, enforcement, and treatment. Those resistant to services will go into the legal system. We work with the county commissioners, with tax funded agencies, and with the faith based community.
Lane Campbell – I would love to get back into the school system. Get young kids used to us. I want full time drug enforcement and a k-9 unit.
3. How do you propose to deal with mental health problems?
Lane Campbell – I’ve been working the streets for 37 years, every day. You can lead a horse to water but you can’t make them drink. We all go through de-escalation training. I want these people looked after before they go to jail. I want a field program.
Rick Felici – I advocate for contact anywhere and everywhere. We have limited response options. The good news is the proposed Oak Harbor facility. I believe in collaboration. Now we have the potential for a mental health worker.
4. What is your position on I-940, requiring de-escalation training? (background: 940 requires de-escalation training for cops, requires them to have first aid training – yeah, really, that is not required now – and sets standards for use of deadly force).
Rick Felici – I’ve had a lot of conversations about this. This is not the sky falling. We already have significant de-escalation training in Washington. Its about the rules around deadly force. There will be no huge impact on how we do our jobs.
Lane Campbell – We train all the time in de-escalation. We’re top notch. I’ve been doing first aid for 37 years. As for the deadly force issue, we train and train.
5. What are the most concerning types of crime in Island County and how do you propose to reduce those?
Lane Campbell – Its all drug related. People are getting into homes and vehicles. It’s a societal problem. Many of the homeless are part of the community and we will protect them.
Rick Felici – All crime concerns me, but I agree that much of it is related to drugs and mental health. We lack a process and we lack the staff to deal with it adequately. Its important to increase staff. Common sense . . .(time)
6. In 2015 the 21st Century Policing Initiative was adopted. Which strategies are being used? Which ones do you like?
Rick Felici – That document is just a description of good policing. It relates to service, standards, the relationship with the community, and training. It feels like a model of what we’re already doing.
Lane Campbell – My job as sheriff is to work with you and your communities. I’ve been doing that all my career. The job is to organize groups. We need to bridge the gap between the sheriff and the community.
7. What will be your policy concerning undocumented people?
Lane Campbell – Yeah, we have a policy: don’t seek out illegals. They’re no problem. They have the same problems as everyone else. No, we don’t turn them over to ICE. If a criminal warrant exists, we will hand them over.
Rick Felici – Our office has a robust policy, as recommended by the Attorney General and supported by federal case law and the 21st Century Policing Initiative. Its not an issue. We don’t ask people their immigration status. We treat people fairly regardless.
8. In 2 minutes, tell us whatever you like.
Rick Felici – (he displays a wry sense of humor). I’m very encouraged by the numbers. This is my first political foray. I want to build a better office. We already have a solid foundation. We need to overcome the negativity about police. We need to take responsibility for our actions and work with and for you. We need to improve communications.
Lane Campbell – I’ve been an Island County sheriff for 28 years and a cop for 37 years. I’ve worked under 5 chiefs. I’ve seen what works. I want to get the drug dealers off the street. I want to help people with drug issues and mental health. I have vast experience. My dad is 84 years old and he busts his butt every day. I follow his example. I’m not the guy sitting in an office. I’ll be in my car and available to you.
Wednesday, October 3, 2018
Make Sure You'll Be Able To Vote
There’s an election coming and you need to be prepared.
First, you need to know that you are registered to vote. To check, go to https://weiapplets.sos.wa.gov/MyVote/#/login
If you have changed either your name or your address you can make the change on that site. If you don’t make the change you could be denied your right to vote.
THE DEADLINE TO REGISTER OR CHANGE YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS is October 8, 2018, coming right up.
If you miss that deadline you will have to go to the Elections Office at 400 N Main Street in Coupeville. The deadline to register or change your name or address in person is October 29, 2018.
For more information call 360-679-7366 or email elections@co.island.wa.us
They’re open 8:00 – 4:30 Monday - Friday
The Elections Office tells us that ballots must be postmarked on or before election day, November 6. The League of Women Voters has just let us all know that the Postal Service is being less than helpful. Ballots dropped in mailboxes in Island County get shipped to Seattle for processing, and are usually postmarked the next day. Which means your ballot would be postmarked too late. So if you drop your ballot in the mail on November 6 it may very well not be counted. NOT GOOD!
There are several solutions.
1. Get your ballot in the mail by Monday, November 5.
2. If you can’t do it before November 6, take it to the counter and ask the postal clerk to hand stamp it. And no, you don’t need to put a stamp on it.
3. Drop it in one of the 6 ballot drop boxes before 8:00 pm on Tuesday, November 6. They are located at:
Island County Elections Office
400 N Main Street Coupeville
Trinity Lutheran Church
18341 Hwy 525 Freeland
Ken’s Corner Shopping Center
4141 Hwy 525 (at Langley Road) Clinton
Island County Camano Annex
121 N East Camano Drive Camano Island
Langley Post Office, front patio
115 2nd Street Langley
Oak Harbor City Hall
865 SE Barrington Oak Harbor
Ballots are supposed to go into the mail October 19, so be on the lookout. If you don’t see yours by the 21st, contact the Elections Office.
I’ll do my best to have the candidate and issue information out before ballots drop. Really.
First, you need to know that you are registered to vote. To check, go to https://weiapplets.sos.wa.gov/MyVote/#/login
If you have changed either your name or your address you can make the change on that site. If you don’t make the change you could be denied your right to vote.
THE DEADLINE TO REGISTER OR CHANGE YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS is October 8, 2018, coming right up.
If you miss that deadline you will have to go to the Elections Office at 400 N Main Street in Coupeville. The deadline to register or change your name or address in person is October 29, 2018.
For more information call 360-679-7366 or email elections@co.island.wa.us
They’re open 8:00 – 4:30 Monday - Friday
The Elections Office tells us that ballots must be postmarked on or before election day, November 6. The League of Women Voters has just let us all know that the Postal Service is being less than helpful. Ballots dropped in mailboxes in Island County get shipped to Seattle for processing, and are usually postmarked the next day. Which means your ballot would be postmarked too late. So if you drop your ballot in the mail on November 6 it may very well not be counted. NOT GOOD!
There are several solutions.
1. Get your ballot in the mail by Monday, November 5.
2. If you can’t do it before November 6, take it to the counter and ask the postal clerk to hand stamp it. And no, you don’t need to put a stamp on it.
3. Drop it in one of the 6 ballot drop boxes before 8:00 pm on Tuesday, November 6. They are located at:
Island County Elections Office
400 N Main Street Coupeville
Trinity Lutheran Church
18341 Hwy 525 Freeland
Ken’s Corner Shopping Center
4141 Hwy 525 (at Langley Road) Clinton
Island County Camano Annex
121 N East Camano Drive Camano Island
Langley Post Office, front patio
115 2nd Street Langley
Oak Harbor City Hall
865 SE Barrington Oak Harbor
Ballots are supposed to go into the mail October 19, so be on the lookout. If you don’t see yours by the 21st, contact the Elections Office.
I’ll do my best to have the candidate and issue information out before ballots drop. Really.
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