As a nurse practitioner I am dedicated to improving the health of individuals and to creating a healthier community. After decades of practice, I now understand how government policy can influence the health of a community. Many issues threaten the health of citizens globally, including those in Port Townsend, but climate destruction looms as the greatest threat in history.  While nations drag their feet to reduce greenhouse gases (GHG) many cities and small communities are taking action.

But not Port Townsend. Despite many appeals from local citizens our present City Council, led by Mayor Stinson, has not meaningfully addressed Port Townsend’s most significant contributor to local GHG emissions, transportation. In fact, this council has nearly destroyed the one committee dedicated to non-motorized transportation.

Our City Council has failed to create policy for transit expansion or walking and biking infrastructure that would not only reduce our carbon footprint but also the effects of many chronic diseases.

We’re running out of time for action. My late husband Steve Kimball, a PT native, was blogging about climate change 24 hours before his death from leukemia. Here is one of his last statements “I want to die with hope, believing that my teenage son and his children and your children and their children will live in a world that is hospitable to human beings.” Our son is now 30. There is no time for hope, we need action. We need change.

After 10 years on the planning commission Monica MickHager understands the connection between policy and health. Monica values citizen opinions and is committed to re-engaging citizens in process. She will push for policy changes that benefit the health and wellbeing of our community. I strongly encourage you to join me in voting for action with a vote Monica MickHager for City Council.

Rebecca Kimball
Port Townsend