EJ Zita deserves reelection for Port Commission

A letter in the Sept. 17 Olympian accuses Commissioner E.J. Zita of “disruptive” behavior in her job.

Has this writer ever attended or watched a Port Commission meeting? (Videos of Port Commission meetings are available at portolympia.com; click on Commission Meetings Videos.)

Zita’s even-handed and courteous demeanor is remarkably consistent, and is especially remarkable given the level of provocation, intentional or otherwise, to which she has been subjected.

Just as she has listened to diverse voices from many sectors of the public, Zita listens respectfully to her colleagues and the business community.

Acting according to one’s conscience is not disruptiveness; it is, rather, the job of a dedicated public servant. Zita has shown she can advocate strongly for measures to benefit the port and the community, even without support from her fellow commissioners — and do so without manifesting impatience, discourtesy or ill humor. She has also demonstrated open-mindedness, at times voting with fellow commissioners after considering arguments from all sides.

E.J. Zita is a creative thinker with the courage of her convictions; more to the point, she is a fair-minded person who treats colleagues and the public with unfailing respect and courtesy.

She clearly merits re-election. Please join me in supporting Zita for Port.

This story was originally published October 13, 2017 at 5:00 PM with the headline "EJ Zita deserves reelection for Port Commission."