— from Michael Durland for Council Position #2 —
Michael Durland, candidate for County Council for Orcas Position #2
Mine is a true grassroots campaign. I am not soliciting campaign donations. You will see no yard signs. I ask that you vote for me and support my efforts to make positive change in County government.
I grew-up farming, served in the military, was a licensed Union carpenter and real estate agent, and owner of a yacht charter business. I hold a BS in Interdisciplinary studies: Political Science and Biology, and a Contractor and Captain’s licenses. I apprenticed to become a shipwright, moved to Orcas in 1977 to build a private yacht for a customer and stayed. I raised a family in an off-the-grid cabin, and started and still operate two businesses in Deer Harbor, PurRain Watertanks and Deer Harbor Boatworks .
As a 39-year resident, 37-year property owner and contractor, 27-year shoreline property and business operator my experiences have made me acutely aware of the issues in this County.
Like most of you I donated time to citizen committees and provided numerous nonprofits, individuals, and businesses with time, energy, technical expertise and equipment.
I feel the greatest impediment to Community and Commerce is the arbitrary creation and implementation of public policy. San Juan County citizens need a functional government capable of consistent interpretation and implementation of public policy if they are to plan, invest in this community, and prosper.
My goal is to improve the integrity, trustworthiness, responsibility, and accountability of County government through the consistent interpretation and implementation of public policy and fair treatment of all citizens. I believe this can be achieved by providing County staff with the tools, training, and support they require to be effective, by listening to your comments and concerns, and by acting in the best interests of the community.
I talked to many farmers at the Farm Tours and learned of their problems and successes. I will work with them to see if there is anything the County can do to assist their efforts. Vacation Rentals and long term affordable rentals are an issue that this Council has let get out of hand with the proliferation of AirBnB and VRBO. There needs to be more restrictions on Vacation Rentals with a time period and renewal of the permit in order to address their effect on the neighborhood and neighboring services. I think the County can cut down on the number of lawsuits against them by thoughtful and reasonable approaches to resolving the issues before they escalate to the Courts. I will study and work to resolve these issues and more if elected.
Thanks to all of you who have encouraged and supported my efforts in this campaign.
