Time-worn and fuzzy thinking

The impending election of two new county commissioners is of great concern to me, since it is sure to determine the direction of our county for the foreseeable future.

Like so much of our state we are experiencing significant, if not phenomenal, growth as new residents arrive, some of them seeking to raise their families, many seeking to enjoy our relatively unspoiled natural environment. The big challenge will be to absorb this growth in a way that will not threaten or destroy the very qualities that make our area so attractive.

We can do this, but we need fresh ideas and forward thinking leadership.

Former Sheriff Gary Edwards is basing his appeal on an experience base of the last century, but hardly a mind that is prepared to grapple with the complexities of the 21st century and the needs of Thurston County today.

Young people today want innovative thinking and new approaches to planning and governance — ideas that will enable us to preserve our precious natural heritage as our human population, inevitably, expands.

Fortunately, we have two such candidates in Kelsey Hulse ( running against Edwards in District 2) and Jim Cooper (District 1). They are young, tech-savvy, and have the strong endorsement of the public interest organizations that vet candidates for their commitment to protecting the environment and their ability to work effectively. Please help elect Kelsey Hulse and Jim Cooper to the County Commission.

This story was originally published October 25, 2016 at 7:33 PM with the headline "Time-worn and fuzzy thinking."