We’re about to experience the most significant change in our city government in twenty years – a new city manager. I want Mr. Mauro to have an engaged and experienced City Council to help him navigate the choppy waters of our stormy community.

Serving on council for eight years and as mayor for four, I was extremely pleased to learn in 2016 that Deborah would succeed me. Her dedication to every aspect of city government is exceptional. Her effectiveness as a leader can be seen in what has been accomplished in the last four years, and by the fact that she has been twice elected mayor by her colleagues.

Deb’s opponent cites lack of progress on community goals, and low public participation in meetings, to justify the effort to keep Deb from continuing her public service. There is no substantive disagreement on the city’s vision for the future or the challenges we face.

With respect to public input, complaints about not getting heard are often code for not getting one’s way. Managing advisory committees and volunteers who seek autonomy and taxpayer money for advocacy was a challenge during my tenure as well. This will continue.

With respect to the future, real progress on difficult long-term challenges - affordable and available housing, preparation for the impacts of climate change, local transportation, etc. - will best be served by retaining someone with knowledge of the work already underway and a history of getting things done. Inexperience does not speed things up.

It is up to you and me to keep Deborah on council. It will be up to the next City Council to elect the mayor from among its members. Please vote with me to protect our community’s investment in Deborah Stinson.

David King
Port Townsend