The Islands’ Weekly is running a series of Q&As with the Port of Lopez Commissioners candidates. The Q&As will run Sept. 22, 29, Oct.6 and 13 Oct.
Questions:
1. Which Port of Lopez position are you running for and why are you running?
2. What qualifications do you bring to the position?
Kenn Aufderhar
1. I am running for the Port of Lopez, commissioner, position 1. My decision to run for port commissioner was heartfelt and important to me. It provides a way for me to serve and give back to the community of Lopez.
2. As a successful business owner with years of experience, I believe my particular skill set will be an asset to the port. I know how to set goals and priorities. I understand financial statements, budgets, and numbers and know how to manage assets. I know what it takes to turn complex issues into practical solutions with an emphasis on the importance of good financial stewardship. In managing my own businesses, I have learned the importance of listening to others and communicating clearly. I have a clear understanding of the important issues facing the Lopez Airport not only today, but in the years ahead. Our airport serves the everyday lives of the citizens of Lopez in a variety of important and critical ways. I also understand the community’s desire for more public marine access. As port commissioner I look forward to serving the needs and desires of our community.
Ed Kilduff
1. I’m running for the seat currently occupied by Steve Adams. It has “port commissioner 2” designation on the ballot. I’m running because our port has been crippled because of expenditures and financial transactions that do not add to the safety of our airport, its economic viability, or to our community at large. Also, from the moment I am elected, our port’s relationship with the Lopez public will change. Public education and involvement in port business is critical, and if the public can’t attend port meetings, our port has to do a better job of bringing the port to the public. All port meetings should be on video and available for public viewing on the web.
2. A few years ago, when I was Lopez’s representative on the San Juan County Solid Waste Advisory Committee, I brought to light financial mismanagement at our county solid waste program. I made efforts to rally and educate Lopezians though the “Take Back the Dump” movement. Other citizens took up the mantle and eventually SWAP was formed. I have worked in and around government for nearly 30 years, and my passion is “good government” regardless of party. I’ve run businesses subject to federal funding rules and survived many audits by the Defense Contracts Audit Agency. I am currently president of the Common Sense Alliance and I am a board member of Community Treasures. For more information visit www.kilduff4port.com.
Steve Adams
I am running for port commissioner (position 2) to: (1) use my ability to visualize long term financial solutions making our port stronger. I am a problem solver and serve as an objective and conscientious voice and will continue to serve all citizens. (2) make our airport safer by following FAA’s requisites. I support removing the trees on newly purchased property that interfere with landings and converting the land to pasture while making the property attractive for the neighborhood. (3) keep the port operating economically and with the lowest tax rate in the Washington Public Ports Association survey. (4) make the airport a Net-Zero electrical energy user. The port installed a photovoltaic system cutting electrical bills. I support converting the old lighting to an efficient LED system. (5) develop the port’s new marine park on Fisherman Bay into a picnic area and small boat launch site. (6) complete an FAA airport master plan, listening to public input, that sets a vision for the future.
2. My experience on Lopez includes: 30 years Lopez High School science and technology teacher; 25 years operating successful businesses; 20 years Lopez fire fighter, EMT and Chief; 12 years Lopez fire commissioner; eight years as county planning commissioner; four years port commissioner. Our family moved to Lopez in 1980, we designed and hand built our home and raised our girls Serina and Ariella. I have been involved in aviation for over 50 years. My experience in aviation and the community are valuable in managing our important resource.
