I had the pleasure of working for Jill Johnson at the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce for three years, and I’d like to share my first-hand knowledge of the skills and characteristics that make her an excellent choice for Island County commissioner.

As a young person learning about the business world, I was always impressed by Jill’s ability to solve problems with creativity. In serving a group of people with wide-spread interests, we were continually presented with challenges to which I saw no good solution. Jill would not only find an answer to the problem, but would create a solution that exceeded the expectations of those who came to her for help. She quickly learned to balance the very different needs of small and large business owners, nonprofit organizations, tourists and local residents, often creating partnerships that allowed different groups to work together for a common goal. Simply put, Jill Johnson makes things happen.

Jill taught me, both directly and through my own observation, to be a leader. She identifies the goal, reviews every possible solution, dedicates herself to accomplishing the task at hand, and both leads and enables her associates to succeed. She has the ability to concentrate the efforts of a group of people and direct their efforts to achieve. She understands what it takes to build a strong community — cooperation between local government, businesses and individual residents.

Above all, Jill Johnson truly cares. She is passionate about Island County — her home. She cares about the success of every single person that she meets, and she does everything in her power to allow those around her to reach their full potential.

I have moved on from my time at the Chamber of Commerce, but I still call upon my experience there to help me in my career and in my personal life. Jill brought out the best in me, and I know that she will bring out the best in Island County.

Heather Abundis

Oak Harbor