Downing can work with all of Thurston County

I am excited about the prospect of Joe Downing joining the Port of Olympia Commission. Having seen Joe in action at a recent public forum, I know that he will contribute a thoughtful approach to the challenges that the port faces.

Joe has a complete grasp of the issues facing the port: opportunities at the airport; possibilities for new and different types of cargo at the marine terminal; and for putting vacant port properties out for lease or development.

Recently the port commission has been considering a code of conduct resolution. During the discussions of the proposed code, Commissioner George Barner has indicated he will not vote for it. By contrast, Joe supports civil and open discourse, and in negotiating agreements among interested parties and he therefore supports a code of conduct for commissioners.

Joe has endorsements across the political spectrum, from the city councils of Lacey, Olympia, and Tumwater, and a county commissioner. This speaks to Joe’s ability to work with other government entities to move forward on the challenges that face us all as residents of the county. Joe also supports food systems development as a way to bring more direct benefit to south Thurston County residents.

This story was originally published October 30, 2015 at 9:25 AM with the headline "Downing can work with all of Thurston County."