San Juan County is an unusual place alright. Some think a paradise. Others a paradise lost, depending on how biocentric your beliefs. In any case, these distinctive islands and eclectic communities – forest edged, patchwork fields, and huge seascapes in changing light – create a soul-nourishing sense of place and community.

Most of us feel fortunate, even blessed, to live here. But our skewed demographics, drastic wealth disparity, tunnel vision regarding habitual summer tourism and a general reluctance toward middleclass growth, does not promise a regenerative, vibrant community. Working people, especially those with families, want to thrive here, too. We need many more of them. Impediments to functional community growth are many, none insurmountable, with available affordable housing the bottleneck.

Thinking of this outcome I am confident in one thing; Rick Hughes is the right choice for more effective and forward-thinking governance by our County Council. A true moderate with years of experience to focus efforts.

With two terms of recent, successful Council service he will fully engage after swearing-in, with refined insights from being outside of local government while continuously engaged in several businesses, a farm and the Orcas community. His family history and personal aspirations have been varied and notably successful.

Rick is the only highly qualified Council candidate. Still well-known and respected regionally and in Olympia, he has the legislative knack to elevate and focus the effectiveness of Council, and help direct our new County Manager, in challenging times. (Re)elect Rick Hughes to see real progress toward County self-reliance.

Steve Ulvi

San Juan Island