For the past 15 years I have been involved in local politics. It has been discouraging to note that most candidates for local office are older, retired individuals who seek election to an office to give them something to do in their retirement.

That is why I am so impressed with Eron Berg. He is a young man who has always known that he wants to spend his life serving in government. He was raised in LaConner, and at the age of 21 was first appointed to the LaConner City Planning Commission. At the age of 23 he ran for and was elected to the LaConner City Council. When he was 25 he was elected as their mayor. During this time he was also attending college, graduate school, then law school. He paid for his education by operating three espresso stands.

As mayor, he has built a new fire station, encouraged Swinomish Indian Tribe to participate in community activities, and is planning a new road at the entrance of his city and a facility to treat the city’s storm water. His energy and organizational ability have resulted in his being selected by his fellow mayors and commissioners as the chair of the Skagit County Council of Governments.

Eron is running for the State House of Representatives in the 10th District, representing all of Island County and parts of Skagit and Snohomish counties.

Eron’s opponent has lived in this area only seven years. She has never held any government office and does not have any legal training or experience.

I urge voters to get to know Eron Berg. I am certain you will be impressed with him. He has already done remarkable things in his home city and county. He will be the perfect person to represent us in Olympia.

Capt. William Applegate, USN (ret)

Oak Harbor