Five best for City Council
When I evaluate a candidate for public office, I look for someone who has demonstrated good decision-making through open-minded conversations, thorough analysis of the facts, and a willingness to evaluate the pros and cons of an issue through a community-centric lens.
An additional part of my equation is reviewing their demonstrated, deep-rooted commitment to the community. By deep rooted, I don’t mean in years residing on the Island, but rather in activity and engagement in volunteering, board and task force participation and more. I’m looking for people engaged in finding solutions rather than only pointing out the problems.
This year’s election has clear choices when you consider which candidates will bring those attributes to City Hall.
I’m excited to vote for Bruce Bassett, Debbie Bertlin, Wendy Weiker, Jane Meyer Brahm and Jeff Sanderson. I believe these candidates embody the important characteristics of excellent and thoughtful City Council members.
Rep. Tana Senn
Out with old, in with the new
How assuring that the same ol’ clique — Jarrett (mayor 1984-1987), Newman (mayor 1990-1993) , Clibborn (mayor 1994-1997), and Merkle (mayor 2000-2005) — has endorsed their buddies who are presently on the council, asking you to vote for another round of Bassett, Bertlin, and Brahm to make major decisions for us for another four years.
A lot has changed on our Island. It’s time Mercer Islanders realize that we have to have a new smarter and brighter approach to the ever-growing list of problems our Island is facing. Let’s not go backwards.
Vote for Tom Acker, Traci Granbois, Salim Nice and Dave Wisenteiner.
Marty Gale
Bertlin can build consensus
In this day, when civility, moderation and collaboration seem difficult to find, I am happy to support Debbie Bertlin for City Council, Position 7. She embodies all of these qualities.
Both before and while on the council, Debbie has shown that she has the ability to work with different opinions to achieve consensus. Her work during the library remodel debate is an example.
I also appreciate Debbie’s as a strong advocate for Island children through her work with MIPA — launching the Adventure Playground and remodel at Luther Burbank. She advocates for seniors on limited incomes by supporting the city’s utility bill relief program for those in need. And, when Country Village and Little Acorn had to leave their school district facilities, Debbie worked hard with fellow Islanders to help them find new locations.
She is a positive and compassionate person and a woman with strong business skills which she brings to her council work. As a long-time Islander, I have confidence that Debbie is a leader who will represent us well in the years ahead.
Elaine Lotzkar