Everett, Wash.
Published: Wednesday, October 15, 2008

10th District House, Position 1: Candidates Knue, Smith concerned about economy

By Gale Fiege
Herald Writer

 Republican state Rep. Norma Smith is trying to retain the 10th District seat that she was appointed to in January. Democrat Tim Knue is making a second run at a seat in the district.

Smith was named to the position by the Snohomish County Council and Island and Skagit county commissioners after former state Rep. Chris Strow resigned to take a job with the Puget Sound Regional Council.

Smith is challenged by Knue, who attempted to unseat Position 2 Rep. Barbara Bailey when he first sought legislative office two years ago.

Knue, 54, grew up on his family's small farm in the Oak Harbor area and retired as a longtime, award-winning high school agriculture teacher. He said his experience on a governor-appointed state board where he represented career and technical education allowed him to become a voice to influence legislation.

Knue said his primary concerns as a legislator would be education, support for farmers and the owners of small businesses, and tackling issues such as growth and transportation, including highways and ferries. Knue is in favor of performance audits to make sure state money is spent well, he said.

Smith shares Knue's interest in the state's economic vitality and said she would like to be returned to Olympia to continue her bipartisan work to protect home owners and small businesses.

Both she and Knue believe that the current regulatory climate is tough for the owners of small businesses and family farms.

The solutions to transportation problems, especially in the state ferry system, will require a tough look at the budget, Smith said.

Smith said she believes in treating people respectfully and that she had an encouraging welcome in the statehouse in January by members on both sides of the aisle.



Reporter Gale Fiege: 425-339-3427 or gfiege@heraldnet.com.
© 2009The Daily Herald Co., Everett, WA