Editor,

I want to encourage my friends and community to vote for Jill Johnson for District 2 Island County commissioner.

I’ve known Jill for decades and am impressed with her accomplishments as a commissioner working with all who want affordable housing, improved public health and her focus on bringing mental health services to Whidbey. Law enforcement is also a high priority for her. She obtained grants and resources to help the county through the COVID crisis and is a great communicator.

Dan Evans is a nice guy. I enjoyed working with him on the Oak Harbor Main Street Board where Dan served as president. After I left that board, Dan made some changes and decisions that worry me. He led a change to bylaws that brought our organization out of compliance with the State Main Street association that chartered us. Under his leadership they applied for a PPP loan and then fired their only employee. When it was brought to their attention they would have to return the loan, Dan offered to become the paid executive director so they could keep the funds.

Talk about a conflict of interest. Evans is supported by an out-of-state-based land developer seeking to get favors.

I want a growth management plan that protects our farms and open lands and not change the rules to benefit land developers.

Join me in voting for Jill Johnson. She works for all of us.

Kathleen Jones

Oak Harbor