here are my recommendations for the election.

The basic values that I apply are for elected officials to have honesty and provide open government that is accountable to the citizens. We can all bring our different views to the public process, but without honest public process we have factionalism and corrupt government. Beyond that, environmental protection is the most important cause I support.

Bellingham Mayor - Brett Bonner. Brett will be a fresh breeze and will try hard to provide open and honest government. Mark has not been honest, has taken vengeance on those he does not like, provides favors at public expense to his friends and is generally quite corrupt. I agree with what comes out of his mouth, but his actions do not follow his words. Bonner's election will encourage the council to set policy as it should and allow new liberal leadership to develop in Bellingham. Mark stifles liberal progress.

City Council - John Watts, John Wilson and Terry Bornemann. Watts tries so hard to be a good representative that it doesn't matter whether we agree or disagree. Wilson should replace Bjornson for At Large. Louise is a leaf in the wind on issues and does not contribute to any solutions any longer. Don Hansey is a good conservative but his interests on the council would be too narrow. Terry has learned during this campaign that he needs to be more open to public input and process.

Port of Bellingham - Jim Jorgensen. Jim will work with Scott Walker to make the Port work for our community again. Ginny has avoided being accountable to the citizens for her cozy deals with Port clients. Jim is highly qualified to contribute to our Port and economy.

County Council - McShane and Kaufman. McShane is more environmentally responsible than Chappell, although he is certainly not the hero his adoring fans make him to be. He has flaws and is erratic in his decisions. Kaufman holds promise of being one of the most intelligent and energetic council members we have ever had. He should replace Crawford who is a knee-jerk representative of gravel and development interests.

Levy for EMS - NO. This levy is a tax increase to allow previous funds to be wasted on cultural projects. The EMS is not in any danger of under funding. But other pet projects are in danger. The fear tactics used for this campaign are despicable. Local governments and fire districts are playing a big shell game with our taxes. They just want more easy money.

See eight election commentaries by well-qualified local political observers.