In the last few days, we watched the League of Women Voters County Council debate and have read the candidates’ replies to questions in the local papers. It’s a hard choice for many because we have four very good people running for just two positions.

For position 1 we have Ryan Palmateer or Christine Minney. For Winnie and me the choice is easy because we have both known Ryan for years in his professional capacity. I was on the board of the Conservation District where Ryan works and have seen Ryan’s commitment to the environment, and his passion for energy conservation, alternative energy and electric vehicles. Winnie was on the OPALCO board, which had the Conservation District handle some of its energy conservation programs. Most were new programs and Ryan, being the point person, was a match for the creativity required. He did a fantastic job.

For District 2 we have Rick Hughes, the incumbent or Cindy Wolf. We’ve known Rick for his entire time in office and while we don’t always agree with his actions he has always been approachable and very pleasant. We’ve known Cindy for less time and we’ve both been impressed with her passion, honesty, commitment to San Juan County’s “way of life”, and her prodigious work ethic. She is one of those people who if you want something to get done, just “give it to Cindy”. So between the two we feel that after eight years it is time for a change.

Both Ryan and Cindy understand government. They know San Juan County is not a business whose purpose is to make money, but an institution that exists to serve the needs of its citizens and to protect our environment.

Winnie Adams and Bob Gamble

Orcas/Waldron Islands