Keep Kathy Vaughn at PUD

Voters have a choice between experienced candidates in the race for the Snohomish County PUD’s District 2 commissioner position.

Incumbent Kathy Vaughn is being challenged by Tim Harrigan, a civil engineer. Although a political newcomer, Harrigan is a partner in a civil engineering firm whose work with local, state and federal agencies has given him experience in the utility business. It’s an attractive choice between two people with understanding of the issues.

We believe voters would do best to stick with Kathy Vaughn for a second six-year term on the commission. Vaughn’s openness and patience have helped bring calm and focus to the PUD, replacing contentious relationships on the commission. An owner of a mortgage brokerage, Vaughn also seems to be in touch with the concerns of the homeowners and businesses that rely on the PUD for power.

She’s a thoughtful advocate for conservation programs and examining whether the district can develop more environmentally friendly power generation. Harrigan brings his own well-considered skepticism about the potential for such efforts, as well as a desire to see the commission’s meetings held at night. As they go to the polls, voters should hope that Harrigan continues to seek ways to become involved in PUD while Vaughn retains the commission post where she has served well.