With the election around the corner, I often wonder what life was like on Whidbey Island 20 to 30 years ago; in fact, it may have been a bit harder than it is today. I suspect however, many residents knew one another and could get things done with a phone call or a handshake. That was one of the joys of being in Nevada, some 25 years ago! Local government people could wing it or “fly by the seat of one’s pants,” in some instances, and really do no harm. But today, with complex regulations, statutes, ever-hungry opportunists, and more lawyers than sea lice on a farmed salmon, most of us are hungry for equitable, consistent, and fair treatment from our local government.

We are facing some very difficult times and regardless of where you stand or fall politically, our county commissioners are vitally important to our future and it’s critical that we put aside party dogma and look for the most qualified leadership. We admire and endorse Phil Bakke for his hands-on development experience, gained over the past decade, and the advanced tools he has acquired through his master’s degree at the U.W. We believe Phil Bakke has the critical experience, knowledge and essential contacts to be one of the most effective, and very best commissioners, Island County has ever had.

I trust you will vote for the individual you believe has the most to offer all of us here in Island County; we believe that individual is Phil Bakke.

Robert Hrycenko

Greenbank