Though Jill Johnson’s largest single donation thus far has come from her family the majority of her other contributors are builders, developers and real estate agents, as shown in her current disclosure report. This support from persons and firms who have personal and direct interest in seemingly unbridled housing growth doesn’t bode well for Island County in general or Oak Harbor in particular.

A large body of evidence shows that Oak Harbor has more potential for economic growth by focusing upon business and housing development within current city limits, not outside them — which simply drives existing property owners’ taxes up while consuming forest and farm resources. Believing in a “Field of Dreams” idea that “if you build it, they will come,” will further weaken the current housing market and existing business moxie.

If Johnson were to become county commissioner, as a spokesperson for advocates of unbridled building, she would send us right back to the failing build or bust fiscal model that got us into this mess.

Angie Homola should be retained as county commissioner for District 2. As an architect and dedicated steward of county government, she clearly possesses the necessary qualifications above and beyond the other candidates. She has proven that she is capable of taking on the many challenges Island County faces now and in the future. While all the cuts were being made to balance the budget, Angie personally contributed over $24,000 in wages, benefits and donations to help keep our county afloat.  For the past three years Homola has advocated for intelligent economic development that is harmoniously integrated within the quality of life we all have come to enjoy. I’m voting for Angie.

John Voet
Coupeville