The recent barrages of online negative comments on County Council candidates are attempts to promote a specific candidate by throwing dirt. The candidates’ sometimes respond emotionally, and that shows they are human and care. I have had to endure similar attacks due to the ideological positions that I have taken in our community over the years.
What is important in elections are the issues and how the issues affect the voters. When you read or hear the answers to The Journal questions, CAPR San Juan questions (www.capr-sanjuan.org), the League of Women’s Forum answers, and the answers to the Islands Community Church questions (Oct. 22), you get a solid basis of where each candidate stands on the issues.
In addition, what a candidate’s life experiences and talents are also plays an important role. I favor candidates who are honest, have business experiences and show a propensity to be thrifty and careful with finances. I support Gordy Petersen, Fay Chaffee and Richard Fralick because of their historical actions, business and life experiences, and because of their answers to CAPR San Juan questions make it clear that:
— They are against the county fireworks ban. They favor appropriate regulations.
— They are not in favor of a blanket 200-foot shoreline setback or wetland buffer.
— They are against putting regulations, or a tax, based on a person’s house size.
— They are not in favor of a special tax for low-income housing. The taxpayers spoke on this issue and these candidates favor the Homes For Islanders approach — a hand up over a hand out.
— These candidates favor keeping the transfer station where it is, due to the fairness and cost issues.
— These candidates favor more cell towers because of safety issues.
— These candidates recognize the current financial situation, and will best hold the line on county spending for special-interest causes.
— These candidates have not sought political endorsements from political parties, and are running on issues rather than associations.
As a result of the above reasons, I hope you will join me in supporting Gordy Petersen for District 1, Fay Chaffee for District 3, and Richard Fralick for District 4.
Remember, Clarence Darrow said, “To think is to differ.”
Frank M. Penwell
San Juan Island
