A voter for parks and Selby, Jones, Bateman and Barner

I’m voting for Cheryl Selby (for Olympia mayor) because she’s smart, dedicated, a localist and isn’t afraid to delegate. I’m voting for Nathaniel Jones (for City Council) because he’s been a quiet leader on the council for years building consensus, and he’s a policy wonk, exactly what we need. I’m voting for Jessica Bateman (for council) because while she’s wonky on policy, she also has so much energy and enthusiasm it’s infectious.

I’m voting for Prop 1 for parks, because it’s a smart investment. Parks and urban trails increase property values (ask the Realtors, they have lots of data on this).

I did the math, and if my home’s value increases annually by just 0.1 percent because of increased investment in parks, I double my investment in just 10 years. More important, I love the arts. Remember, Arts Walk and Olympia’s arts programs are funded by the Parks department. Prop 1 supports the arts.

And I am voting for George Barner for port commission. Why? One word: loyalty. I grew up in Olympia, hearing my county commissioner sing “Louie Louie” at events. George has always been available, listened, and supported me. I met with him on filing day- engaged, knowledgeable, and full of ideas. I like Joe, but George has been there, and wants to stay there. Enough said.

This story was originally published October 9, 2015 at 3:37 PM with the headline "A voter for parks and Selby, Jones, Bateman and Barner."