Editor,

With our local elections fast approaching, I write in support of Karla Jacks for the position of Island County commissioner.

Over the past three years, I have had the pleasure of working with Karla as we’ve served together on the Camano Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

While she served in her previous position as Chamber president, I often witnessed her unfailing hard work and dedication to increasing business on Camano.

Karla has the ability to get others excited and involved in community projects, increasing awareness and bringing in profits for all the business owners on the island.

Karla’s skills at planning, funding and executing large-scale events are evident.

The success of the Chamber’s many marketing ventures, like the annual Camano Chili-Chowder fundraiser; the Beer, Brats, and Biz; and the Women’s Expo are a testament to Karla’s proficiency.

Not only has Karla been willing to serve as a leader, I have also seen her get down in the trenches and get her hands dirty when duty calls.

Karla has stayed late to clean up after events when the assigned volunteers did not show up. Karla served and helped fundraise with the Stanwood High School Football Boosters Club and Pee Wee leagues, just to support our youth and local athletics programs.

In short, Karla always steps up and gets things done.

As a small business owner, I understand how important it is that our elected county officials be trustworthy, as they are given the responsibility of disseminating hard-earned taxpayer funds.

Over the last eight years I have known Karla, I have seen her to be extremely passionate about the health of our local economy, the involvement of local businesses in the community, and the growth of our area.

I attest that Karla Jacks will have the best interests of the citizens of Island County at heart if she is elected as County commissioner.

JARED G. PARTRIDGE

business director, Camano Dance Academy and Performing Arts Preschool;

president, Stanwood Camano Youth Soccer Association;

Board of Directors member, Camano Island Chamber of Commerce