In contrast to the heated race for prosecutor is the campaign for the next Island County Commissioner representing North Whidbey and Camano Island.

The most civilized of the races was marked by astonishing amounts of contributions.

John Dean, a Democrat running for Island County Commissioner, raised about $75,000 in donations and even ran cable TV ads — possibly a first in local politics. Incumbent Commissioner Bill Byrd raised only $14,000.

“This is the people’s campaign in a way,” Dean said. “It’s not about money from corporate or real estate PACs. It’s about local people wanting a voice in government.”

Dean received the largest contributions from a Stanwood business, Democratic organizations and a mix of individuals from Island County and elsewhere. The political action committee, the Progressive Majority, paid for his TV ads.

Byrd received his largest contributions from loans to himself, Island County Republican Central Committee, the Washington Association of Realtors and Island County residents.

Dean has the support of prominent Democrats, including state Senator Mary Margaret Haugen and the Camano Island Firefighters Association. Byrd is supported by builders and Realtor associations, as well as his fellow Republican commissioners.

Despite the lopsided money situation, Byrd received slightly more votes in the primary election. He predicts a close election next Tuesday.

Byrd and Dean agreed that the campaign was very gentlemanly and civil. The two men were very cordial, even complimentary, to one another during public debates.

“I think we’ve set a standard of how candidates can keep it positive,” Dean said. “You don’t have to go at each other’s throats.”

But civil campaigns may have a downside.

Even though the two candidates spent an eye-opening $90,000 combined in getting the message out, Byrd said he was disappointed that actual issues facing the county got little attention.

“I don’t think there’s a message there from him,” Byrd said, referring to Dean. “I’m not sure he’s that knowledgeable about what’s going on that he can really take a stand.”

Yet Dean said his biggest issue, which he has hit on over and over again, is about the quality of representation. He promises to be the kind of public official who listens to citizens, makes an effort to meet the public as much as possible and answers phone calls.

“It’s an issue of public service and open, responsive government,” he said.