||| FROM BRUCE AGNEW |||
There is no more effective advocate for San Juan Islanders in Olympia and Washington DC than Councilmember Rick Hughes. His persistent leadership on ferry issues with the Governor, WSDOT, legislators and congressional leaders has earned him respect and a prestigious appointment as the sole county representative (there are 39 counties in the state) to the Statewide Priorities and Needs Assessment committee. Their report on transportation priorities will be presented to the Governor and Legislature this year. Rick needs to be reelected to ensure the needs of islanders does not lose political momentum.
I served as an elected Snohomish County Councilmember and congressional office staff director for many years meeting hundreds of elected officials. I can not recall a smarter, more articulate, or open minded leader so connected to the community they serve. He also understands the role of technology and need for information access for all citizens. It would be a shame to lose a strong voice in the state and national capitols – for you.
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I agree completely. Building relationships is important; it also takes time. Rick has Been a steady advocate for San Juan County both in Olympia and in Canada on ferry and Salish Sea environmental issues. His experience, and the respect and support he has earned there, will count for a lot in the difficult financial times to come.