Concerned Citizens for Mercer Island Parks (CCMIP) is dedicated to preserving our precious parkland. All candidates answered eight park-related questions posed by us. Our Voters Guide, printed on bright yellow paper, is available around the Island, as an insert to [the Oct. 21] Mercer Island Reporter issue and by emailing: protectMIparks@gmail.com.

Based on candidate answers and related information, CCMIP endorses Dave Wisenteiner, Salim Nice, Thomas Acker, and Traci Granbois.

We further rated candidates on a standard scale of Outstanding to Inadequate as follows:

Outstanding: Salim Nice & Traci Granbois demonstrate the greatest dedication to protecting all our parks, requiring a public advisory vote before parkland can be sold or leased.

Very Good: Dave Wisenteiner & Thomas Acker are not quite as knowledgeable on parkland issues, but support protecting our parks with an advisory vote or otherwise.

Good: Jeff Sanderson favors an advisory vote for Mercerdale, and “a high hurdle,” but no specific additional protections for other parks.

Adequate: Jane Meyer Brahm & Wendy Weiker support some additional protections, but believe the City Council should make almost all park decisions.

Inadequate: Bruce Bassett & Debbie Bertlin favored a parking garage on Kite Hill, selling part of Clarke Beach for $11 a square foot, and an arts facility at Mercerdale. As incumbents, they’ve done nothing to protect parks, but believe the City Council should make all parks decisions with no advisory votes.

Please vote for the candidates of your choice. Our Voters Guide includes endorsements and all candidates’ answers so you can decide for yourself.

Sharon H. Smith

CCMIP Voters Guide Chair