Bassett has integrity, intelligence

As we debate the multitude of citizen concerns this election season, one question keeps emerging: Which candidates have the integrity and intellect to lead, and the tenacity to negotiate results that better our island? To me that answer is clear and that’s why I support Bruce Bassett for re-election.

Since moving here with his family 12 years ago, Bruce has not only served eight years on council, and as mayor, but also has brought his training as a Dartmouth engineer and dogged determination to bring people together to multiple Mercer Island boards and commissions including the Mercer Island Design Commission, Arts Council, Parks and Recreation subcommittee, Utilities board and the Mercer Island School District’s 21st Century Facilities committee.

Regionally he has served on the King County Regional Transit Commission, Puget Sound Regional Council Executive Board and the Suburban Cities Associations.

His resume is impressive and so are the results he has achieved on our behalf. Because of Bruce’s leadership, I-90 tolling has been defeated, our roads are safer, our public safety is improved and city finances are sound. We are fortunate Bruce has chosen to dedicate his experience and expertise to public service in our community and should return him to City Council.

Myra Lupton

Balducci brought ST to Island to hear concerns

As a longtime Mercer Island resident and commuter, it was great to see the city of Mercer Island, WSDOT and Sound Transit host an open house at the Community Center on Sept. 24 to hear Islanders’ growing concerns about the implementation of light rail and modifications to the I-90 bridge. The meeting (and parking lot) were packed and many residents spoke about the same concerns I have about off-islanders filling up the MI Park and Ride, “loss” of the HOV lane and the use of Mercer Island as a primary “bus hub” for the entire Eastside.

This meeting only happened because of Balducci’s advocacy at the Sound Transit board. Claudia attended the entire meeting, listened attentively and took notes. We’re lucky to have leadership from local Sound Transit board members like Claudia. She did the same as a leader in Bellevue’s successful negotiation of an implementation plan for light rail in that city. We’ll be luckier still if she wins election to the King County Council this fall. Please vote for Claudia so we will have a strong voice that looks out for Mercer Island interests in this challenging process ahead.

Diane Hess Taylor