Letter to Editor | Paulsen showcases dedication to our county

||| FROM ATHENA MOORE |||

I am Athena Moore, a senior at Spring Street International School and a resident of Orcas Island since 2018. As a student pilot with the Airhawks Flying Club, an employee at Island Market, and an active member of our community theater, I am proud to endorse Justin Paulsen for San Juan County Council.

I recently called Paulsen’s business number at 4:30 PM for a few questions for a school project and ended up with an enlightening hour-long interview which showcased his dedication to our county. What sets Paulsen apart is his commitment to fostering public-private partnerships rather than imposing government-run policies to address issues like climate change and affordable housing. Through strengthening relationships with local organizations like OPAL,
OPALCO, and the land banks, Paulsen seeks to address local issues with local solutions.

Chair of the Ferry Advisory Committee, Justin Paulsen has worked tirelessly to improve transportation for commuters and students like me. His vision includes creating a government-run transportation system that connects urban centers on islands like Orcas and Lopez to ferry terminals, benefitting commuters, students, and tourists alike. Paulsen plans to allocate ferry money to providing medical transportation benefits both me and my family.

Paulsen’s expertise concerning affordable housing is unparalleled. He has personally helped build over 70 units of affordable housing alongside OPAL, the same organization that helped his family settle here. His plans to expand the use of the real estate excise tax will incentivize long-term, affordable rentals, benefitting land owners and renters and helping fill local job vacancies.

Justin Paulsen cares about my education, and supports efforts made by Kari McVeigh and Jane Fuller to secure more funds for our public schools.

His dedication and experience with our community through transportation, construction, and education initiatives make him a relatable candidate for islanders like me, and I wholeheartedly support him in this election.