Editor,

It is clear to me that some groups endorsing or giving preference to candidates are not checking credentials very carefully. I strongly support Ronnie Wright for Mayor. Oak Harbor needs his intelligent multi-tasking work ethic especially in areas like finance, leadership, ethical behavior and giving credit to others.

His opponent, Mr. Hoffmire, does not demonstrate these skill sets. Mr. Hoffmire has particularly proven he has no plans to be transparent. Public Disclosure Commission laws are for all; although requested, he refused to furnish bank statements for his campaign. His numbers presented were not accurate, plus omissions.

By decisions he has made on council he has jeopardized the city and North Whidbey Pool, Parks and Recreation District, which happens to be his employer. From December until May alone, there are three documented conflict of interest issues, two financial, posing possible state auditor findings, which may change bond ratings and increase costly audit work for both, plus fines. Mr. Hoffmire should have recused himself, and then the third time, the Oak Harbor City attorney had to direct the mayor to strike his vote.

Hoffmire has demonstrated a basic lack of finance knowledge many times. Most recently by pushing refinancing the sewer treatment loans with a higher interest rate and a balloon payment coming due. Thankfully, the council overwhelming took the smarter, more affordable path for the taxpayers.

Then there is the matter of self-promotion versus giving credit where credit is due; for example taking credit for the returning carnival for the Fourth of July when in fact it was the Chamber; he takes credit for lowering the sewer treatment plant monthly costs, when in fact it was the hired third-party finance company’s recommendation that the council passed; his latest five-point list of accomplishments, when many of those accomplishments have been being worked on for many years.

He should have thanked staff and his fellow council members. Watching his behavior in council and other meetings tells me he does not comport himself in a way I would like to see as representative of our city.

These are a few reasons, there are many more I could share, that make Mr. Hoffmire someone who I believe is the wrong choice as mayor and why I wholeheartedly support Ronnie Wright for mayor. Be an informed voter, Wright for Mayor.

Sue Karahalios

Oak Harbor