HUGHES SUPPORT from JOHN EVENS

 

The Eagle Forum Candidates forum Saturday provided insight to each of the six Council candidates viewpoints.
From the San Juan District,
It is clear Bob Jarman places high value on protecting the rural quality of life in the San Juan Islands.  His focus is on preserving what is special about the island life style and natural environment.  Bob is not a polished speaker but one could not miss the sincerity of his commitment to the people of the islands and our rural values.
Bob’s opponent, Lovel Pratt seemed focused well beyond the boundaries of San Juan County.  She references seeking State and Federal grant money for this or that, and her enthusiasm for working the legislative halls of Olympia and beyond, promoting or protesting a variety of issues.  Lovel says that she listens.  Unfortunately most who have talked with her on important community issues feel she may listen but doesn’t hear.  She was the principal advocate for passing the Critical Areas Ordinance that today has our citizens and the County courthouse tied in knots.
From the Lopez District,
Jamie Stephens is a bit of a puzzle as a candidate and sitting Councilman.  He is a likable and amenable,  but when it comes to Council responsibilities he hangs back on choosing a coarse of action. It is hard to assign a viewpoint or opinion that he stands for.  He was consistent in his support of Lovel and Howie’s notions when they served together on the prior Council.  He guided and voted for the Critical Areas Ordinance that is such a complex mess that implementing it is being delayed again.
Brian McClerren brings a new and positive dynamic to this election.  He is a young man with a young family, and a small business on Lopez.  He is focused on how to make the islands a welcoming place for young families and on preserving the rural character and lifestyle of the islands.  He has a clear understanding of what one would call “island values” of being good neighbors, being good stewards of the environment and allowing for the diversity and independence that has been a hallmark of island life.  He is new to the island’s political scene and has obviously done his homework. He has zeroed in on key areas where our local government is doing well and recognizes areas where it can be improved.
From Orcas Island,
Lisa Byers is a good speaker and has a deserved reputation of organizing and managing the large non-profit OPAL.  She generally supports the Critical Areas Ordinance. While she has some suggestions for implementing the Ordinance, she seems willing to gloss over the many reasons the new Ordinance will be a problem for property owners and for the County to administer.  She is confident she has the ability to reach consensus on difficult local issues?
Rick Hughes has a strong sense of the importance of a functioning local economy that provides jobs and opportunities for island families.  He recognizes the importance of making government work better for our citizens in terms of being helpful as opposed to a hinderance. He stresses that the rules and regulations that are necessary be clearly written and understandable.  He has a strong background in management.
Summary:
As a voter, I believe that Rick Hughes, Bob Jarman and Brian McClerren are the best choices for directing our County government in a manner that maintains our rural values, respects the residents of the islands and preserves the natural environment;  the combination that makes the San Juan Islands such a remarkable place to live.

John Evans