It’s almost time to vote. Growing up here on Whidbey Island, and graduating from South Whidbey High School has given me a unique perspective on local politics. In fact, as a lifelong Democrat, I wouldn’t have believed that I would one day vote for a Republican. But, this year I am. I’m voting for Jill Johnson for Island County commissioner and I’m writing this letter so my friends here on Whidbey Island understand why.

The older I have gotten, the more my life has changed — I own property, I own a business, and I have children that I want to leave a legacy for. With all of the politics going on in our nation, the election that most affects my rights and my pocket book is the county commissioner race. That’s because they have so much control over my property tax bill, and how I can use my property. And, let’s be honest, property is one of the only things most of us will ever get to control. One day, I want to give my kids the property I own here on Whidbey Island, and I want them to be sure to use it in a responsible way – but I don’t want our county commissioners to let someone else have more say than we do about the land we have worked so hard to enjoy.

The fact is, Angie Homola has shown that she is too contrary for Island County. She is not looking out for families like mine, because she’s focused too much on listening to the fringe elements of our county. What we need right now are leaders who have a positive outlook for our county. We need someone in office that respects other people’s ideas — because we ALL have a stake in this island — even those of us who can’t afford big, three-story homes on the waterfront or don’t have time to take off work and voice our opinions at county meetings.

Even though she knows I’m a Democrat, Jill Johnson has always thoughtfully listened to my stance on issues, and we need her kind of leadership more than ever. I’m still voting for Helen Price-Johnson- and I’m definitely voting for Jill!

Captain Brett Ginther
Oak Harbor