Lopez needs to ensure that the members of our county council represent all the islands and have strong countywide knowledge and perspective.

Lovel Pratt is the San Juan District 1 candidate who cares about the entire county and is accessible. She reaches out to Lopez. She listens to and understands our issues. She showed this in her service on the Planning Commission and on the council. She was crucial in the approval of the Lopez Solid Waste District, in securing funding for senior services, and in scheduling an island hearing for the coal terminal.

As a candidate she comes over and talks with us. She celebrated with us at the Dump Party.  She toasted our community leaders at the Andy Holland Spirit Award dinner. She joined us at the spaghetti dinner fundraiser for Woodman Hall. She hosted a public meet and greet time prior to the LWV candidates’ forum. She will dine with us again Jan. 31 at Meals at the School. She is willing to be contacted by phone or email, and she responds.

What impresses me about Lovel is how many decision makers and influential people, those within our community and on the state and national level, listen to her. While Lovel may be soft-spoken – the intelligence, dedication, energy and sincerity she has commands respect from many. Whether it is the prompt response she receives when she sends an email to leaders in D.C. who may determine the fate of our BLM lands, the discussion she had this summer with gubernatorial candidate Rob McKenna on the importance of education, or her appointment to the statewide oil spill and vessel traffic commission by the Washington Association of Counties – she is recognized by many for her knowledge and hard work.

Having someone of this stature to represent our county goes a long way in advancing the county’s priorities.

Lovel understands the demands and challenges of this council position. She presents a realistic, balanced approach to working with our community to move forward building a vibrant economy and effective governance within this beautiful landscape.

Join me in supporting Lovel Pratt for council, San Juan District 1.

Sally Reeve

Lopez Island