The campaign for the Island County commissioner position for District 3 is under way.

I supported the candidacy of John Dean four years ago and feel even more strongly about what his leadership brings to county government. One of the things that excited me about John in 2006 was his commitment to be a unifier and not a divider. Over the past four years I have observed John’s calm, rational, and sound judgment in how he looks at all sides to some very complex and divisive issues before making a decision.

John has gained the trust of most citizens in the county because people know that he will do what he says he will do.

Since the economic recession hit the county with such magnitude, John and the other commissioners have tried diligently to balance the budget with a huge loss in revenue while prioritizing public safety and other essential public services, including necessary law enforcement, mental health and senior programs.

Other major accomplishments include significant, positive changes in county department leadership, expanded economic development and emergency management preparation for both Whidbey and Camano islands, and renewed sub-area planning for Camano, Coupeville and Freeland. Please join me in supporting four more years of John’s leadership in guiding Island County through this difficult period.

Jerome Rosen

Coupeville