Letter to the Editor: Dwight Thompson is smart, articulate, thoughtful

To the Editor:

Having read the recent campaign literature, it is clear that Dwight Thompson is the only reasonable candidate for Mayor of Lake Forest Park.

A Mary Jane Goss goal: “Clean up the ongoing financial problems, without attributing blame.” Yet her flier pointedly blames her opponent.

Goss continues to spread the Gov Watch misleading, inflammatory line that Prop 1 would double City property taxes. Fact: it would have raised City portion by 38% - doesn’t equal double. Prop 1 was a question to the citizens. The answer was NO. The Council listened. There were no additional taxes. They did not take the 1% increase already allowed by law. They cut expenses and balanced the budget.

Another Goss goal: “Create a culture in City Hall that welcomes broader resident participation…” There have always been many ways for involvement through commissions, talking with staff, Mayor, Councilmembers, speaking at Council meetings during public comment. Attending dozens of meetings over the last 20 years I know citizens are listened to. However, it’s sometimes hard to listen when the voices are yelling.

Commission positions were often unfilled even when the Town Crier was sent to every household, repeatedly calling for participation. On the Community Services Commission, I hear a broad range of opinions and lively discussion before recommendations are made. It is energizing to volunteer with other engaged citizens.

Mary Jane Goss is the only candidate who does not support Third Place Commons. The only candidate who does not support the Farmers Market. She is the only candidate who would rather cut the heart of community than look for diversified revenue streams such as modestly enhancing the business base for additional sales tax.

Dwight Thompson is smart, articulate, thoughtful. He listens and brings people together for creative solutions. Please join me in voting for Thompson for Mayor.

Ros Bird

Lake Forest Park