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.
Thursday, October 18, 2018
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.
Thursday, September 27, 2018
9-24-18 Clinton Candidates' Night report
For starters, thank you to the various people who explained some of the most basic of basics of how to use this blog. Notice no unwanted underlining, italics, or other peculiarities. Progress.
If you haven't read the Whidbey Record, there was a major electoral event at the Clinton Hall on Monday 9-24-18. We were all floored by the jam of people, but even 200 people are a very small minority of the voting public in Island County. So I figured I might as well post my notes from the event for those of you who couldn't make it. This is by no means a substitute for my usual acerbic comments, but I do want people to know what's going on. We are only 3 weeks away (as of this writing) of the day ballots drop.
9-24-18 Clinton Progressive Hall Candidates’ Night
A great big thank you to the League of Women Voters, the Clinton Community Council, and the Sno-Isle Libraries for organizing this event. As the Whidbey Record reported, there were near 200 people packed into the hall.
Here are my notes of questions and answers.
Island County Commissioner, district 3
Janet St Clair – D
Rick Hannold – R, incumbent
1. While commissioners represent their particular district, they must govern all of Island County. There are clear needs in each district. How do you reconcile those?
Rick Hannold – The job is to govern Island County as a whole. That’s done by being in the community. Commissioners serve on a couple of dozen boards and agencies, which puts them in contact with the community. (parenthetically, I noted that he referred to Camano as “they”)
Janet St Clair – For some reason I have not recorded her response, but I remember her saying that she has been out knocking on doors all over the county, listening to people and learning their concerns.
2. Rick Hannold and Jill Johnson rejected a $1 mil grant for a Ken’s Corner to ferry dock trail. Why?
Rick Hannold – I didn’t see any sense in it. It would have had to cross Hwy 525. There are Critical Areas involved. And its uphill all the way.
Janet St Clair – There was/is widespread community support for this project. The commissioner from District 1 favored it. The issues raised could have been dealt with. Bottom line: Rick Hannold left a million dollars which could have benefited Island County on the table.
3. How can Island County assist Clinton’s economic development?
Janet St Clair – The commissioners have been discussing special conditions for “gateway” areas. The planning department is working on that very issue. I am looking forward to the result.
Rick Hannold – This is a recent issue. We’re just wrapping up the Housing element. Next we’ll be addressing rural lands, economic development, and gateway areas. There are no Urban Growth Areas involved, so gateway designation will be significant.
4. How do you proposed to deal with the loss of rental housing to Air B&B conversions?
Rick Hannold – Its not just south Whidbey. The state is working on new guidelines for the Buildable Lands Analysis. We will know more later.
Janet St Clair – Air B&Bs cost the county in tourism tax dollars. There is a study of the issue coming. Once we see the results, we can consider what policies will be appropriate. We need to look at the whole range of housing issues.
5. What is Island County’s role in creating affordable housing?
Janet St Clair – Island County does not build housing. It facilitates the construction. There are different categories of housing to consider: homeless housing, workforce housing, senior housing, supportive housing for those with special needs. There has been a 2 year program to look at all the various housing issue. Based on that we need to develop different strategies for each of these categories.
Rick Hannold – Housing comes down to cost and availability. The county can reduce the turnaround time for permits. It has adopted stock plans which can be permitted very quickly. It can do concurrent review of the many permits required. It can waive some permit fees.
6. What are your plans for non-motorized transportation?
Rick Hannold – Island County has a world class trail system. We’re working to allow electric bicycles on those trails. And we’re working on the non-motorized trail plan.
Janet St Clair – Island County can and should influence ferry policy. The Clinton trail would certainly have helped. I want to increase non-traffic-generating options.
7. Is climate change real, and how is it impacting Island County?
Janet St Clair – I agree with the climate scientists. I work to address climate issues and to educate the public. I try to teach them to protect what they love.
Rick Hannold – I agree that the climate is changing. I question the cause. Humans do have an impact but there is no single cause for climate change. There is a carbon tax on the ballot. The US population has increased by 47% but carbon has only increased by 7%.
8. What do you think of the Growth Management Act?
Rick Hannold – It affects everything. We’re working with the legislature to give it some flexibility. It doesn’t fit Island County.
Janet St Clair – Yes, I’m familiar with GMA. I’ve read it, and I’ve read the county’s comprehensive plan. We do need flexibility, but not to pave the islands, lose our forests, and all the other effects of over-development. We want to grow smart and carefully.
9. Please tell us about yourself.
Janet St Clair – Thank you to the organizers. Democracy works when we all show up. I am responsive and respectful, and want to work together to serve the public. We all want strong communities and a thriving economy.
Rick Hannold – Thanks everybody. I’m asking for another four years. I have many points in common with my opponent, but I believe in limited government which does not intrude on people’s lives. I am a fiscal conservative.
Island County Sheriff
Rick Felici – R
Lane Campbell – R
1. What are your 3 greatest priorities?
Rick Felici – The biggest issue is staffing. That affects everything. We need to find the additional resources to increase staff. Second, being pro-active on drug enforcement. Thirdly, because of our limited resources we need to collaborate with other community resources.
Lane Campbell – First, drugs are killing our communities. I want a dedicated drug detective and a K-9. Second – staffing. Third – community partnership.
2. How do you decide what staffing you need and how to deploy them?
Lane Campbell – I would work with the county commissioners and the various agencies. We are losing people to bigger agencies. I want to keep those qualified people. I will watch how it has been run and then change what needs changing. You are my boss. I will be better organized and bring needed resources.
Rick Felici – My staffing criteria are to bring the biggest resource to the biggest problem. There are 3 distinctly different geographical districts. We barely have enough deputies to staff all of them 24/7. We need more.
3. You both mention a shortage of deputies. How do you attract and retain staff?
Rick Felici – Its not just about the pay. There is opposition to changes in shift scheduling. We need to work out contract negotiations.
Lane Campbell – I’ve talked to people who are leaving and pay is a big deal. Oak Harbor pays $1500.00/month more than Island County. And housing is expensive.
4. How will you deal with drugs/opiates?
Lane Campbell – I work with these people every day. We’ve got to get a handle on it. Arizona v Gann limits our ability in discovery. A K-9 will get us into boats, cars, etc. I will not let this place turn into Seattle.
Rick Felici – Yes, we have a drug problem. It is no worse than in other jurisdictions. A dog is a tool, but it is not the only tool. I favor a 3 prong approach: enforcement, education, and treatment.
5. Tell us about community policing.
Rick Felici – Policing requires community participation. We need to help involve the community. We need to communicate better. We are now training a drug investigator. We can use better outreach.
Lane Campbell – I’m a hands-on guy. I love the participation and the personal contact. I love being out on the road.
6. Would you cooperate with ICE?
Lane Campbell – The county’s Hispanic population is mostly in Oak Harbor. They do not cause problems. We don’t seek them out. If a warrant is issued and if they are dangerous, we will take them in. We do not and will never seek them out and turn them over to ICE.
Rick Felici – Provide information to ICE? Maybe, but only if they present a criminal warrant.
7. How will you deal with mental health and homelessness issues?
Rick Felici – We are involved by default. Communities expect public safety. We are seeking grant funding to work with other agencies. Often there are also drug issues involved.
Lane Campbell – I deal with this every day. We offer services every day. We can’t force them to accept those services.
8. What new technologies are available?
Lane Campbell – I want to try to cut down on paperwork. I want to use Dragon voice recognition to autofill reports. Some of the guys are slow on computers. A dog is another technology. I want to cut the head off the snake of drugs.
Rick Felici – New technology is expensive but we do update regularly. One new tech we’re using is computer forensics. Another is the use of drones, which is a great tool for finding lost children, Alzheimer’s patients, and others.
9. Tell us about yourself.
Rick Felici – I’ve been a cop a long time. I’ve been an Island County sheriff since 1994. I’ve done patrol, detective, I’ve been a patrol supervisor and a detective supervisor. I’ve lived and worked in all 3 districts.
Lane Campbell – I’ve been a cop for 37 years, 28 of them in Island County. I’ve worked for various agencies. I’ve seen what does and doesn’t work. I want to keep our quality of life. I am dedicated to you, your children, and your future. I want to bring about change.
After the event I approach Rick Felici and asked him the question I put to every sheriff: There is the practice we call “recreational bulldozing” which usually begins after work hours on Friday and is all done by Sunday evening. Would he be willing to send a deputy to such a situation and ask the bulldozing party to hold off until Monday when county staff can evaluate it? I was rather pleasantly surprised when Mr Felici told me that he remembered talking to me about one of these recreational bulldozing events in Greenbank many years ago. He said that, staff permitting, he would indeed send a deputy, realizing that they have no authority in a civil case. This makes big points with me.
I have posted an email to pose the same question to Mr Campbell and have now received the following response:
Hi Marianne,
This is something that I do on a weekly basis. I work directly with the public 40 to 60+ hours a week. This job isn't always about putting people in jail, in fact most the time I find myself negotiating peaceful solutions to rather complex problems. After 37 years of doing this job I will continue to seek for solutions that work for everyone. Ultimately, I have no problem seeking a solution for you. Just bare in mind that you are absolutely correct when you said that this is a civil matter in which your neighbor does not have to comply with by law. That being said nothing ventured, nothing gained. Thank you for your question.
Lane Campbell
State Representative, legislative district 10
position 1
Scott McMullen – D
Norma Smith – R, incumbent
position 2
Dave Paul – D
Dave Hayes – R, incumbent
1. How would you protect the quality of life on south Whidbey?
Dave Hayes – Island County is very unique. It needs services and policies. There’s the Clinton Community Council and the Ferry Advisory Committee. They are part of the solution for traffic and the ferry. My priorities are public safety, mental health. I have helped create the (sorry, I can’t remember what it stands for) LE0 in Snohomish County.
Dave Paul – My focus is education and the problem of reduced services. I want to see more affordable housing. A clean environment creates a better quality of life. Climate change is in fact caused by humans and we need to protect our environment for our own sake.
Norma Smith – I’m local. I live in Clinton. My focus is economic development, housing, quality of life, conservation, data privacy, and educational quality.
Scott McMullen – I want to protect our environment, work on mental health issues, and education.
2. How would you improve infrastructure in Clinton?
Dave Paul – I would listen to people. Ask folks in Clinton and Mukilteo what they need. Maybe ferry reservations would help. I want to look into alternatives to cars, improving light rail. I want to advocate for you.
Dave Hayes – traffic safety is my specialty. I would look into safety grants for sidewalks and crossings, and would advocate for those things. I would look into the ferry routes. You have a voice. (This is the second time he has run over his time by a significant amount).
I missed the responses from Norma Smith and Scott McMullen because my pencil broke. Sorry.
3. What are your legislative priorities?
Norma Smith – Mental health. I wrote the budget for that program. The legislature disliked the draft produced by the executive. This is historic. There is a $180 million capital budget for mental health. Data privacy – I’m fighting for your privacy. Housing affordability.
Scott McMullen – Education, transportation, and public safety. The McCleary decision was a good first step but we need more.
Dave Hayes – Mental health and addiction. I created the Snohomish County Diversion Center and embedded social workers with cops on the beat. I passed a bill to write grants for these programs.
Dave Paul – Education. A property tax to fund McCleary is wrong. We need to reduce the corporate tax exemptions. A capital gains tax would be more fair. Mental health services need to be properly funded.
4. Do you support or oppose I-1631, a fee on fossil fuels, with proceeds to be spent to reduce the need for those fuels and to repair the damage done by those fuels?
Scott McMullen – I support 1631. I’m looking at how to protect jobs, maybe introduce apprenticeships, in the transition to a clean energy economy. We need to protect the environment.
Dave Hayes – I am not a climate change denier but I do not support 1631. Whether you call it a fee or a tax, it’s a tax on pollution. The consumer will be hit the hardest. Gas and groceries will cost more. There is no tangible benefit. (Once again, he has run well over his time).
Dave Paul – We need this measure to deal with climate change. My biggest concern is affordability and how we replace oil jobs with green jobs.
Norma Smith – I sit on the energy committee and I will vote NO on 1631. Washington is opposite the rest of the country. Most of our energy is fossil free. We can work WITH the utilities, including the investor owned utilities and be responsible.
5. In light of the current partisan divide at the federal level, how will you deal with the opposite party?
Dave Hayes – I practice civility in politics. We have to go beyond bipartisanship and reach out to stakeholders. Look at I-940 about police accountability. House Bill 3003 was the legislative response to that initiative. I brought the various sides together. In spite of our agreement, 940 is still on the ballot. I hope it is defeated.
Dave Paul – Bipartisanship is a big part of why I am running. It is important to find common ground. I will work with everybody. I will share the agenda and the policy.
Norma Smith – I’m always bipartisan in all of my issues, such as on line privacy and net neutrality. DNR gave me an award for my work on forestry issues.
Scott McMullen – My first priority is doing the right thing. I have signed the “with honor” pledge to reach across the aisle. My father was in the house and the senate and always worked across the aisle. He is my role model.
6. How will you deal with education issues?
Dave Paul – I am an educator. I could talk forever on this subject. We can help create pathways to living wage jobs. We can talk to kids in middle school about planning their future. We can help reduce student debt. Education means teaching critical thinking skills.
Norma Smith – We’re dealing with the feedback from McCleary. We have doubled the education budget over the last 10 years. What works? What doesn’t? I led the program for seismic testing of our school buildings. I want every child to love learning and to achieve their dreams.
Scott McMullen – Education needs funding. The 1% need to pay their fair share. I would look into a capital gains tax and apprenticeship programs.
Dave Hayes – We need to maintain current funding. As it is education eats 51% of the state budget. I want to look at vocational education and special ed, as well as school counselors. The legislature must stop creating unfunded mandates.
7. What incentives would you provide for affordable housing?
Norma Smith – There is the Housing Trust Fund, and there are grants. The Housing Finance Committee operates outside the budget to grant affordable housing loans. We spend $20 million to house the chronically mentally ill. We need regulatory reform to ease permitting.
Scott McMullen – I understand and sympathize with people in need. I volunteer at several service centers. We need to increase the housing trust fund and to increase incentives to contractors.
Dave Hayes – I support the housing trust fund but funding is not the issue. We need to address cost drivers, to cut the red tape and create flexibility on land use issues and environmental impacts. We need to loosen GMA.
Dave Paul – I don’t like loosening regulations. New development outside Urban Growth Areas is by definition not affordable. I want to encourage greater housing stock inside our UGAs. I want to encourage apartments. We can work on permitting, but don’t relax the regulations.
8. What do you think of dark money in politics?
Scott McMullen – I believe in fair and free elections. I oppose dark money and think we need to work on this issue. I don’t have any plan just yet.
Dave Hayes – Yes, I have concerns. Washington’s Public Disclosure Commission has a great set of rules but that doesn’t affect federal disclosure rules. I have serious concerns about the idea of an amendment to the Constitution. That is a big deal and could open up a can of worms. We just need proper constraints.
Dave Paul – I am a political scientist by training. The amount of money being spent on these state races is obscene. I would focus on reducing the cost of campaigning at the state level. I believe we can talk to voters to overcome money in politics.
Norma Smith – Check out the Public Disclosure Commission. As for a Constitutional amendment, yes there is genuine concern about money in politics, but there are also people who want to address the federal debt, term limits, and other issues. . . (she ran out of time and stopped).
9. Tell us about yourself.
Dave Hayes – Thanks to everyone who put on this event and all who attended. I’ve been in pubic service my entire adult life. I’ve been a police officer for 24 years. Public policy is important. We need to look at how it affects people. We need good policy. I’ve been successful in the legislature and I want to continue.
Dave Paul – I want to make sure all voices are heard and everyone is represented. Dave Hayes voted against the ban on bump stocks and against ending “gay conversion therapy”. I agree that addiction issues require bipartisanship. I will lead on these issues.
Norma Smith – It has been an honor to serve you. I’m a home girl. Everything I do is bipartisan. I ask you to be good ancestors. I initiated the solar panel recycling program and the forest health program. I brought $30 million to the 10th legislative district. I will give it my very best.
Scott McMullen – You want my personal history? I am a firefighter. I served 8 years on the Mt Vernon city council. I want to help the average person. Dave Paul and I will go to Olympia and make a difference. Check Vote Smart for Norma Smith’s voting record and then ask my opinion.
And thus the evening ended. It was a bit of a marathon and I found myself mightily frustrated because 1.5 minute is just not long enough give a coherent statement on much of anything. And there was no opportunity for dialog between opponents. I’m still trying to figure out how we can arrange these events so they end in a finite amount of time but still allow for genuine debate.
I have refrained from commenting on the statements above, even if some of them are whaling whoppers of the grandest sort. I figured I ought to give a report rather than commentary. But comment I will, when we get to the election blog post.
If you haven't read the Whidbey Record, there was a major electoral event at the Clinton Hall on Monday 9-24-18. We were all floored by the jam of people, but even 200 people are a very small minority of the voting public in Island County. So I figured I might as well post my notes from the event for those of you who couldn't make it. This is by no means a substitute for my usual acerbic comments, but I do want people to know what's going on. We are only 3 weeks away (as of this writing) of the day ballots drop.
9-24-18 Clinton Progressive Hall Candidates’ Night
A great big thank you to the League of Women Voters, the Clinton Community Council, and the Sno-Isle Libraries for organizing this event. As the Whidbey Record reported, there were near 200 people packed into the hall.
Here are my notes of questions and answers.
Island County Commissioner, district 3
Janet St Clair – D
Rick Hannold – R, incumbent
1. While commissioners represent their particular district, they must govern all of Island County. There are clear needs in each district. How do you reconcile those?
Rick Hannold – The job is to govern Island County as a whole. That’s done by being in the community. Commissioners serve on a couple of dozen boards and agencies, which puts them in contact with the community. (parenthetically, I noted that he referred to Camano as “they”)
Janet St Clair – For some reason I have not recorded her response, but I remember her saying that she has been out knocking on doors all over the county, listening to people and learning their concerns.
2. Rick Hannold and Jill Johnson rejected a $1 mil grant for a Ken’s Corner to ferry dock trail. Why?
Rick Hannold – I didn’t see any sense in it. It would have had to cross Hwy 525. There are Critical Areas involved. And its uphill all the way.
Janet St Clair – There was/is widespread community support for this project. The commissioner from District 1 favored it. The issues raised could have been dealt with. Bottom line: Rick Hannold left a million dollars which could have benefited Island County on the table.
3. How can Island County assist Clinton’s economic development?
Janet St Clair – The commissioners have been discussing special conditions for “gateway” areas. The planning department is working on that very issue. I am looking forward to the result.
Rick Hannold – This is a recent issue. We’re just wrapping up the Housing element. Next we’ll be addressing rural lands, economic development, and gateway areas. There are no Urban Growth Areas involved, so gateway designation will be significant.
4. How do you proposed to deal with the loss of rental housing to Air B&B conversions?
Rick Hannold – Its not just south Whidbey. The state is working on new guidelines for the Buildable Lands Analysis. We will know more later.
Janet St Clair – Air B&Bs cost the county in tourism tax dollars. There is a study of the issue coming. Once we see the results, we can consider what policies will be appropriate. We need to look at the whole range of housing issues.
5. What is Island County’s role in creating affordable housing?
Janet St Clair – Island County does not build housing. It facilitates the construction. There are different categories of housing to consider: homeless housing, workforce housing, senior housing, supportive housing for those with special needs. There has been a 2 year program to look at all the various housing issue. Based on that we need to develop different strategies for each of these categories.
Rick Hannold – Housing comes down to cost and availability. The county can reduce the turnaround time for permits. It has adopted stock plans which can be permitted very quickly. It can do concurrent review of the many permits required. It can waive some permit fees.
6. What are your plans for non-motorized transportation?
Rick Hannold – Island County has a world class trail system. We’re working to allow electric bicycles on those trails. And we’re working on the non-motorized trail plan.
Janet St Clair – Island County can and should influence ferry policy. The Clinton trail would certainly have helped. I want to increase non-traffic-generating options.
7. Is climate change real, and how is it impacting Island County?
Janet St Clair – I agree with the climate scientists. I work to address climate issues and to educate the public. I try to teach them to protect what they love.
Rick Hannold – I agree that the climate is changing. I question the cause. Humans do have an impact but there is no single cause for climate change. There is a carbon tax on the ballot. The US population has increased by 47% but carbon has only increased by 7%.
8. What do you think of the Growth Management Act?
Rick Hannold – It affects everything. We’re working with the legislature to give it some flexibility. It doesn’t fit Island County.
Janet St Clair – Yes, I’m familiar with GMA. I’ve read it, and I’ve read the county’s comprehensive plan. We do need flexibility, but not to pave the islands, lose our forests, and all the other effects of over-development. We want to grow smart and carefully.
9. Please tell us about yourself.
Janet St Clair – Thank you to the organizers. Democracy works when we all show up. I am responsive and respectful, and want to work together to serve the public. We all want strong communities and a thriving economy.
Rick Hannold – Thanks everybody. I’m asking for another four years. I have many points in common with my opponent, but I believe in limited government which does not intrude on people’s lives. I am a fiscal conservative.
Island County Sheriff
Rick Felici – R
Lane Campbell – R
1. What are your 3 greatest priorities?
Rick Felici – The biggest issue is staffing. That affects everything. We need to find the additional resources to increase staff. Second, being pro-active on drug enforcement. Thirdly, because of our limited resources we need to collaborate with other community resources.
Lane Campbell – First, drugs are killing our communities. I want a dedicated drug detective and a K-9. Second – staffing. Third – community partnership.
2. How do you decide what staffing you need and how to deploy them?
Lane Campbell – I would work with the county commissioners and the various agencies. We are losing people to bigger agencies. I want to keep those qualified people. I will watch how it has been run and then change what needs changing. You are my boss. I will be better organized and bring needed resources.
Rick Felici – My staffing criteria are to bring the biggest resource to the biggest problem. There are 3 distinctly different geographical districts. We barely have enough deputies to staff all of them 24/7. We need more.
3. You both mention a shortage of deputies. How do you attract and retain staff?
Rick Felici – Its not just about the pay. There is opposition to changes in shift scheduling. We need to work out contract negotiations.
Lane Campbell – I’ve talked to people who are leaving and pay is a big deal. Oak Harbor pays $1500.00/month more than Island County. And housing is expensive.
4. How will you deal with drugs/opiates?
Lane Campbell – I work with these people every day. We’ve got to get a handle on it. Arizona v Gann limits our ability in discovery. A K-9 will get us into boats, cars, etc. I will not let this place turn into Seattle.
Rick Felici – Yes, we have a drug problem. It is no worse than in other jurisdictions. A dog is a tool, but it is not the only tool. I favor a 3 prong approach: enforcement, education, and treatment.
5. Tell us about community policing.
Rick Felici – Policing requires community participation. We need to help involve the community. We need to communicate better. We are now training a drug investigator. We can use better outreach.
Lane Campbell – I’m a hands-on guy. I love the participation and the personal contact. I love being out on the road.
6. Would you cooperate with ICE?
Lane Campbell – The county’s Hispanic population is mostly in Oak Harbor. They do not cause problems. We don’t seek them out. If a warrant is issued and if they are dangerous, we will take them in. We do not and will never seek them out and turn them over to ICE.
Rick Felici – Provide information to ICE? Maybe, but only if they present a criminal warrant.
7. How will you deal with mental health and homelessness issues?
Rick Felici – We are involved by default. Communities expect public safety. We are seeking grant funding to work with other agencies. Often there are also drug issues involved.
Lane Campbell – I deal with this every day. We offer services every day. We can’t force them to accept those services.
8. What new technologies are available?
Lane Campbell – I want to try to cut down on paperwork. I want to use Dragon voice recognition to autofill reports. Some of the guys are slow on computers. A dog is another technology. I want to cut the head off the snake of drugs.
Rick Felici – New technology is expensive but we do update regularly. One new tech we’re using is computer forensics. Another is the use of drones, which is a great tool for finding lost children, Alzheimer’s patients, and others.
9. Tell us about yourself.
Rick Felici – I’ve been a cop a long time. I’ve been an Island County sheriff since 1994. I’ve done patrol, detective, I’ve been a patrol supervisor and a detective supervisor. I’ve lived and worked in all 3 districts.
Lane Campbell – I’ve been a cop for 37 years, 28 of them in Island County. I’ve worked for various agencies. I’ve seen what does and doesn’t work. I want to keep our quality of life. I am dedicated to you, your children, and your future. I want to bring about change.
After the event I approach Rick Felici and asked him the question I put to every sheriff: There is the practice we call “recreational bulldozing” which usually begins after work hours on Friday and is all done by Sunday evening. Would he be willing to send a deputy to such a situation and ask the bulldozing party to hold off until Monday when county staff can evaluate it? I was rather pleasantly surprised when Mr Felici told me that he remembered talking to me about one of these recreational bulldozing events in Greenbank many years ago. He said that, staff permitting, he would indeed send a deputy, realizing that they have no authority in a civil case. This makes big points with me.
I have posted an email to pose the same question to Mr Campbell and have now received the following response:
Hi Marianne,
This is something that I do on a weekly basis. I work directly with the public 40 to 60+ hours a week. This job isn't always about putting people in jail, in fact most the time I find myself negotiating peaceful solutions to rather complex problems. After 37 years of doing this job I will continue to seek for solutions that work for everyone. Ultimately, I have no problem seeking a solution for you. Just bare in mind that you are absolutely correct when you said that this is a civil matter in which your neighbor does not have to comply with by law. That being said nothing ventured, nothing gained. Thank you for your question.
Lane Campbell
State Representative, legislative district 10
position 1
Scott McMullen – D
Norma Smith – R, incumbent
position 2
Dave Paul – D
Dave Hayes – R, incumbent
1. How would you protect the quality of life on south Whidbey?
Dave Hayes – Island County is very unique. It needs services and policies. There’s the Clinton Community Council and the Ferry Advisory Committee. They are part of the solution for traffic and the ferry. My priorities are public safety, mental health. I have helped create the (sorry, I can’t remember what it stands for) LE0 in Snohomish County.
Dave Paul – My focus is education and the problem of reduced services. I want to see more affordable housing. A clean environment creates a better quality of life. Climate change is in fact caused by humans and we need to protect our environment for our own sake.
Norma Smith – I’m local. I live in Clinton. My focus is economic development, housing, quality of life, conservation, data privacy, and educational quality.
Scott McMullen – I want to protect our environment, work on mental health issues, and education.
2. How would you improve infrastructure in Clinton?
Dave Paul – I would listen to people. Ask folks in Clinton and Mukilteo what they need. Maybe ferry reservations would help. I want to look into alternatives to cars, improving light rail. I want to advocate for you.
Dave Hayes – traffic safety is my specialty. I would look into safety grants for sidewalks and crossings, and would advocate for those things. I would look into the ferry routes. You have a voice. (This is the second time he has run over his time by a significant amount).
I missed the responses from Norma Smith and Scott McMullen because my pencil broke. Sorry.
3. What are your legislative priorities?
Norma Smith – Mental health. I wrote the budget for that program. The legislature disliked the draft produced by the executive. This is historic. There is a $180 million capital budget for mental health. Data privacy – I’m fighting for your privacy. Housing affordability.
Scott McMullen – Education, transportation, and public safety. The McCleary decision was a good first step but we need more.
Dave Hayes – Mental health and addiction. I created the Snohomish County Diversion Center and embedded social workers with cops on the beat. I passed a bill to write grants for these programs.
Dave Paul – Education. A property tax to fund McCleary is wrong. We need to reduce the corporate tax exemptions. A capital gains tax would be more fair. Mental health services need to be properly funded.
4. Do you support or oppose I-1631, a fee on fossil fuels, with proceeds to be spent to reduce the need for those fuels and to repair the damage done by those fuels?
Scott McMullen – I support 1631. I’m looking at how to protect jobs, maybe introduce apprenticeships, in the transition to a clean energy economy. We need to protect the environment.
Dave Hayes – I am not a climate change denier but I do not support 1631. Whether you call it a fee or a tax, it’s a tax on pollution. The consumer will be hit the hardest. Gas and groceries will cost more. There is no tangible benefit. (Once again, he has run well over his time).
Dave Paul – We need this measure to deal with climate change. My biggest concern is affordability and how we replace oil jobs with green jobs.
Norma Smith – I sit on the energy committee and I will vote NO on 1631. Washington is opposite the rest of the country. Most of our energy is fossil free. We can work WITH the utilities, including the investor owned utilities and be responsible.
5. In light of the current partisan divide at the federal level, how will you deal with the opposite party?
Dave Hayes – I practice civility in politics. We have to go beyond bipartisanship and reach out to stakeholders. Look at I-940 about police accountability. House Bill 3003 was the legislative response to that initiative. I brought the various sides together. In spite of our agreement, 940 is still on the ballot. I hope it is defeated.
Dave Paul – Bipartisanship is a big part of why I am running. It is important to find common ground. I will work with everybody. I will share the agenda and the policy.
Norma Smith – I’m always bipartisan in all of my issues, such as on line privacy and net neutrality. DNR gave me an award for my work on forestry issues.
Scott McMullen – My first priority is doing the right thing. I have signed the “with honor” pledge to reach across the aisle. My father was in the house and the senate and always worked across the aisle. He is my role model.
6. How will you deal with education issues?
Dave Paul – I am an educator. I could talk forever on this subject. We can help create pathways to living wage jobs. We can talk to kids in middle school about planning their future. We can help reduce student debt. Education means teaching critical thinking skills.
Norma Smith – We’re dealing with the feedback from McCleary. We have doubled the education budget over the last 10 years. What works? What doesn’t? I led the program for seismic testing of our school buildings. I want every child to love learning and to achieve their dreams.
Scott McMullen – Education needs funding. The 1% need to pay their fair share. I would look into a capital gains tax and apprenticeship programs.
Dave Hayes – We need to maintain current funding. As it is education eats 51% of the state budget. I want to look at vocational education and special ed, as well as school counselors. The legislature must stop creating unfunded mandates.
7. What incentives would you provide for affordable housing?
Norma Smith – There is the Housing Trust Fund, and there are grants. The Housing Finance Committee operates outside the budget to grant affordable housing loans. We spend $20 million to house the chronically mentally ill. We need regulatory reform to ease permitting.
Scott McMullen – I understand and sympathize with people in need. I volunteer at several service centers. We need to increase the housing trust fund and to increase incentives to contractors.
Dave Hayes – I support the housing trust fund but funding is not the issue. We need to address cost drivers, to cut the red tape and create flexibility on land use issues and environmental impacts. We need to loosen GMA.
Dave Paul – I don’t like loosening regulations. New development outside Urban Growth Areas is by definition not affordable. I want to encourage greater housing stock inside our UGAs. I want to encourage apartments. We can work on permitting, but don’t relax the regulations.
8. What do you think of dark money in politics?
Scott McMullen – I believe in fair and free elections. I oppose dark money and think we need to work on this issue. I don’t have any plan just yet.
Dave Hayes – Yes, I have concerns. Washington’s Public Disclosure Commission has a great set of rules but that doesn’t affect federal disclosure rules. I have serious concerns about the idea of an amendment to the Constitution. That is a big deal and could open up a can of worms. We just need proper constraints.
Dave Paul – I am a political scientist by training. The amount of money being spent on these state races is obscene. I would focus on reducing the cost of campaigning at the state level. I believe we can talk to voters to overcome money in politics.
Norma Smith – Check out the Public Disclosure Commission. As for a Constitutional amendment, yes there is genuine concern about money in politics, but there are also people who want to address the federal debt, term limits, and other issues. . . (she ran out of time and stopped).
9. Tell us about yourself.
Dave Hayes – Thanks to everyone who put on this event and all who attended. I’ve been in pubic service my entire adult life. I’ve been a police officer for 24 years. Public policy is important. We need to look at how it affects people. We need good policy. I’ve been successful in the legislature and I want to continue.
Dave Paul – I want to make sure all voices are heard and everyone is represented. Dave Hayes voted against the ban on bump stocks and against ending “gay conversion therapy”. I agree that addiction issues require bipartisanship. I will lead on these issues.
Norma Smith – It has been an honor to serve you. I’m a home girl. Everything I do is bipartisan. I ask you to be good ancestors. I initiated the solar panel recycling program and the forest health program. I brought $30 million to the 10th legislative district. I will give it my very best.
Scott McMullen – You want my personal history? I am a firefighter. I served 8 years on the Mt Vernon city council. I want to help the average person. Dave Paul and I will go to Olympia and make a difference. Check Vote Smart for Norma Smith’s voting record and then ask my opinion.
And thus the evening ended. It was a bit of a marathon and I found myself mightily frustrated because 1.5 minute is just not long enough give a coherent statement on much of anything. And there was no opportunity for dialog between opponents. I’m still trying to figure out how we can arrange these events so they end in a finite amount of time but still allow for genuine debate.
I have refrained from commenting on the statements above, even if some of them are whaling whoppers of the grandest sort. I figured I ought to give a report rather than commentary. But comment I will, when we get to the election blog post.
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