Dondero is the people's candidate

Diane Dondero is running for Thurston County Commissioner, District 1. Though this will be her first public office, she is well prepared. She knows how county laws are made, how they are enforced, and whom they benefit. By attending meetings, asking questions, researching in great detail, Diane is known to argue for the basic rights of all citizens.

I met Diane 30 years ago and watched her raise her four children, teaching them self-reliance and appreciation for nature and other people. For entertainment they camped in wild places. Diane's values are simple. She loves and understands the purpose of good water, clean air, healthy soil, having a home where children can run and play, where families can take care of responsibilities yet be able to thrive and flourish.

Diane points out that this type of well-being is no longer supported by many politicians voted to represent people's needs and rights. Instead they have quietly been pushing through septic system taxes and land use laws that make it difficult or impossible to do simple property improvements because of the outrageous fees they add on.

If you want to get a permit for an improvement, you may pay nearly $4,000 for their land use survey. If they find anything, say a no-longer used building, then you must come up with the money to fix or tear it down. If you can't do that, then come fines up to $500/day. You are ruined while career politicians are well paid.

This story was originally published July 14, 2016 at 7:43 PM with the headline "Dondero is the people's candidate."