To the editor:
The Lincoln County Democratic Central Committee has endorsed candidates in six non-partisan races in the May 20 special election, including candidates for positions with the Lincoln County School District, the Oregon Coast Community College District and on fire and water district commissions in Seal Rock and Siletz.
Mary Infante, Lincoln County Democratic Central Committee chair, noted that each of the local candidates have issued statements that reflect the progressive values of the Lincoln County Democrats.
The importance of non-partisan local elections at every level of government has become increasingly apparent as quality-of-life issues become subjects of contention. Officials in local offices decide where local monies are spent and can make real impacts on a range of issues including classroom curricula, the safety of our most vulnerable neighbors and critical environmental protections. It’s crucial that we pay close attention to all the moving parts of our political system and work towards ensuring that our progressive values are reflected at every level of government.
The following candidates have been endorsed by the Lincoln County Democratic Party in the May 20 races:
- Lincoln County School District Board of Directors, Zone 3: George Marrazzo
- Lincoln County School District Board of Directors, Zone 5: David Cowden
- Oregon Coast Community College District Board of Education, Zone 5: Chris Chandler
- Seal Rock Rural Fire Protection District Director, Position 2: TiAnne Rios
- Seal Rock Water District Commissioner, Position 2: Daniel Grassick
- Siletz Rural Fire Protection District Director, Position 5: Katie Saaty.
— Mary Infante/Newport
I am disappointed the Lincoln County Democrats chose to endorse my opponent for Seal Rock Water District position 2.
I have over 30 years experience as a level 3 water system Operator and Superintendent. I was the Top Operator in the Pacific Northwest in 2012. I was a a committee member for the Joint Water Commission which operates the largest water treatment plant in the state of Oregon. I did volunteer work for the American Waterworks Association, Water for People and the World Water Congress.
My opponent was Public Works Director for Cannon Beach, a city of about 1,500 people with a level 1 water system.
The Lincoln County Democrats are doing a disservice to the people of the Seal Rock Water District by endorsing the lesser experienced candidate.