If you haven’t done so already, dig out that mail-in ballot for Tuesday’s top two primary election, make your choices and mail it or drop it off at one of several drop boxes throughout the county. For a list of ballot drop boxes, go to tinyurl.com/SnoCoVoteBallotBox.
Below are The Herald Editorial Board’s endorsements for several races on the ballot. To read the full endorsements, go to www.HeraldNet.com/opinion.
Snohomish County Executive: The Herald endorses Dave Somers.
With budget issues and a decision over how to move forward with a replacement for the courthouse looming, the county’s leadership will benefit from the years of experience Somers has gained on the Snohomish County Council. As well, the office would benefit from the knowledge Somers has in the economy, the environment, growth issues and transportation.
Everett City Council, Position 4: The Herald endorses Cassie Franklin.
Franklin, CEO of Cocoon House, participated in the Everett Streets Initiative process, which prepared scores of recommendations for the city to address issues of homelessness and addiction. Her management skills and empathy and understanding for the city’s youths will translate well to serving all of Everett and make her an effective member of the council.
Everett City Council, Position 5: The Herald endorses Scott Bader.
Bader understands the need to address services for all of Everett, particularly south Everett and its need for parks and expansion of the public library’s Evergreen Branch. Bader, after winning election to complete an unexpired term, has demonstrated a collaborative style on the council.
Lake Stevens City Council, Position 5: The Herald endorses Jeffrey Koon.
Koon, a general contractor, sees an opportunity to make improvements in the city’s interaction with businesses and those proposing development. His insight and experience should be helpful to the council as Lake Stevens confronts issues regarding growth and the local economy.
Lynnwood City Council, Position 4: The Herald endorses Loren Simmonds.
Simmonds, who is nearing 16 years of service on the council, demonstrates a desire to put in the time demanded and has the necessary background knowledge of the issues the city faces, including road improvements, delivery of public safety services and addressing growth.
Lynnwood City Council, Position 5: The Herald endorses Chris Frizzell.
Chris Frizzell’s background in accounting doesn’t automatically qualify her for office, but it could prove a useful tool in her hands. She has already done her homework, not only in attending meetings and reviewing the budget but in conferring with city staff.
Mukilteo City Council, Position 6: The Herald endorses Richard Emery.
Emery, self-employed in home remodeling, has served previously on the Mukilteo council. Emery is up to speed on issues related to the Japanese Gulch park project and commercial flights at Paine Field, and has the temperament to be an effective council member.
Edmonds School Board, Position 3: The Herald endorses Mark Norton.
Norton, a Lynnwood resident and parent, is the transit security manager for Metro. Norton demonstrates drive, critical thinking and a unique understanding of security issues. Norton demonstrates clear understanding of school funding and testing issues.
Lakewood School Board, Position 3: The Herald endorses Jahna Smith.
Smith, a parent and account manager for Aetna, has been active in the district with the PTA and in the successful bond election campaign for the new Lakewood High School. Smith was selected by the school board to complete an unexpired term, a choice confirmed by her knowledge of her community and understanding of funding, testing and other issues.
While the primary election includes the race for Snohomish County Council, District 2, both candidates, Brian Sullivan and Greg Tisdel, will move on to the general election, as will the two candidates receiving the most votes in the races above. The Herald will make an endorsement in county council race and other general election races in Snohomish County prior to the Nov. 3 election.
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