The recent election saw the recommendations of the Charter Review Committee affirmed by the voters, substantially changing the operations of our government in San Juan County. No longer will there be an absolute separation of powers, as Proposition 2 grants administrative authority to the council. Therefore our new council will play an active role in the operations of the county council members will need to be more efficient, logical and deliberate in setting policy and also in working directly with county staff in implementing policy.
The new positions will require individuals who are able to set and carry out well-defined goals and objectives, else the council will become hopelessly ineffective in providing quality county services. More importantly, the new council members will need to be in even closer contact with their constituents, all the residents of San Juan County.
You may be asking yourself “Why is this important to me?” Over the next five months, the county will hold special elections and you will be asked to select candidates who you feel have the skills and experience that will allow them to serve you in this new role.
As an island resident, I live here because I enjoy our unique way of life, living in a tight-knit community that works together for common goals. I want to make sure that council members have the capacity, time and experience, to protect our island culture. I am excited by the prospect of helping our community as a member of the new, three-member council.
However, before making my decision whether to seek election, I want to learn what you want of county government and what aspects of our community you want improved. I want to meet with as many fellow residents as are willing to share their thoughts with me.
Please contact me (gregayers@ayers2013.com or 206-390-6714), or you can contact Kate Hansen (katehansen@ayers2013.com) who is working with me on this important project.
I look forward to discussing how we might work together to capitalize on these recent changes. Please help me in protecting our island culture while improving our island life.
Greg Ayers, Orcas Island
