McDonald challenges Strow

As the 2007 election wraps up the next one is just starting.

Ann McDonald, a Democrat and current commissioner for the Port of Coupeville, announced Monday she will run against State Rep. Chris Strow, R-Freeland, in the 2008 election.

Elected as a Coupeville port commissioner two years ago, McDonald said she has been preparing for a run for state representative for years and her time on the port commission was a stepping stone toward that goal. If elected she said she would resign her position on the Port of Coupeville.

“I wanted to wait until after the ‘07 elections are over and let my constituents know I’m there,” McDonald said. The most recent election was certified Tuesday.

In addition to serving on the port board, she also works with area chambers of commerce and she is a member of Skagit Women in Business. She and her husband, Mark, own a small business in Everett.

McDonald is also active in the United Way, the Economic Development Council, the Island County Council of Governments and the Regional Transportation Planning Organization.

She said her main issues are improving access to affordable health care, improving transportation, and preserving land for agriculture. She also has an interest in veterans’ issues.

“The needs of veterans must be addressed by the Legislature. There have been bills in previous sessions that would modify property tax exemption provisions for wounded veterans. I will work to see this measure enacted into law,” McDonald said.

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