I have deep respect for two candidates for county executive and it is a hard choice. At first John Lovick brought refreshing openness to the office and offered progressive solutions. As someone who cares about county issues and sometimes gets involved, I’ve known Dave Somers for years as a conscientious, knowledgeable and effective leader. I now find Dave Gossett’s letter, “Pattern of attack, lack of openness” persuasive in support of new county executive leadership with Somers.
I too have seen a disturbing trend towards lack of transparency from this executive. Last minute amendments come to the County Council to important ordinances that are complex for the public to understand or realize the consequences. For example, after a two-month extension on the vote regarding multi-family zoning changes, the executive rushed in three new amendments to council and the public. Such a tardy introduction so late in the process only appeases the development lobby. Luckily for a responsible process, Somers made a motion to extend written comment on this important issue and pushed the hearing again to the middle of August. While I appreciate that the public can now weigh in on them, I’m appalled at the ploy of offering last minute amendments that would make controversial zoning law changes, for rules that most likely favor developers rather than what is good for the public and our future quality of life.
I want this type of last-minute shenanigans to stop! It’s not fair to the public. That is why I’m voting for Somers. He has shown repeatedly over the years he has served as County Council member that he is open, honest and consistently works hard to make the process reasonable to us all, whether we agree with his final decisions or not.
Laura Hartman
Snohomish
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