Island County voters can usually be counted on to display common sense when voting on issues and candidates.

Electing John Dean as county commissioner, for example, was eminently sensible. A Democrat and newcomer to elective office, Dean brings a breath of fresh air to the three-man board of commissioners. He’s enthusiastic and optimistic, and represents the desires of the majority of Island County citizens better than do the incumbents.

How do we know this? Look at Initiative 933, the so-called “property rights initiative,” which would have led to unchecked development. Voters in Island County opposed this overzealous initiative by a whopping 66 percent majority when they went to the polls last Tuesday. The fact that all three commissioners voiced their support for I-933 before the election demonstrates how out of touch they really are with the people.

Ironically, the growth the commissioners have always promoted has likely served to put them further out of touch. The thousands of new residents who have moved here in recent years truly appreciate what we have and want their elected representatives to work diligently to protect our rural lifestyle. The old days of getting elected just by appealing to the pro-growth crowd are gone. Hopefully, Dean represents a new generation of local politicians who will really listen to the people.

Our likable State Representative, Barbara Bailey, apparently did win reelection, but just barely, against another political newcomer with pro-environmental views. If she understands the message, she’ll turn a bit “greener” over the next two years, and maybe the next election won’t be so traumatic.

Islanders also showed a strong new sensitivity to the environment by voting by a 56 percent margin for I-937, which requires electric utilities to generate more power through renewable energy. This no doubt means higher electricity rates for the average homeowner, but the people are willing to make that sacrifice to spark more emphasis on renewable energy. We would hazard a guess that the three sitting commissioners were against this, too.

Island County voters didn’t do anything radical in the election, but they pointed to a future in which good representation and environmental protection are keys to winning elections. We’re fortunate to live in a county with such sensible voters.