Fishburn and Zita needed on Port Commission

Olympia and South Puget Sound region have some strong cultural values:

1. Sustainability

2. Respect for diversity

3. Respect for the natural environment (ties back into #1.)

These values are critical to who we are but many times are not reflected in political decisions. Port of Olympia has been one example that. Inspite of attempts of new Commissioner Zita to be more transparent in decision-making and supporting efforts of the Port to help promote public health, safety and welfare, she alone was unable to affect the Port’s direction of short term financial gain with long term detriment. There is now an opportunity to elect a Port Commissioner who also does value the above community values and would help lead the Port to make changes so the Port can better listen to the community and explore options for use and opportunities that sustain our diverse communities in the South Sound, and partner with local jurisdictions and Tribes and farming communities.

I am excited to learn that Bill Fishburn has decided to run for Port Commission. He has been a leader in supporting diversity, human rights and building community in our South Sound region.

I hope people in our communities will have the opportunity to talk with Bill Fishburn as he works to eventually represent us at the Port of Olympia. I also hope we will support both him and Commissioner Zita in a re-direction of the Port to reflect our values and grow into the future.

This story was originally published June 22, 2017 at 5:39 PM with the headline "Fishburn and Zita needed on Port Commission."