Letter to the Editor: Pratt Supports County Economy & Rural Character

Greetings,

This is a brief note to urge you to consider Lovel Pratt’s candidacy when casting your vote in the February 12th, 2013 primary. Ballots will be mailed on January 25 and we would like you to vote Lovel Pratt for County Council, from District 1.

Lovel has been a strong advocate for farmers markets since she helped the San Juan Islands Farmers’ Market relocate to the Courthouse parking lot, and then as the project manager for Brickworks; conducting the feasibility study and securing the funds for the property purchase. Brickworks is now a thriving downtown community and event center in Friday Harbor, and the permanent (and soon to be year-round) home of the Friday Harbor Farmers’ Market.

On the Council she has been a strong advocate for the Orcas Farmers’ Market, submitting applications on their behalf and supporting their receipt of LTAC funds. She was successful in advocating for improved code language that allows for expanded agricultural activities and farm direct marketing. She has supported agricultural property owners and their use of the Current Use Taxation programs. She was also an active and strong supporter for the GMO-Free initiative campaign.

If elected, she will continue to support local agriculture on the Council. Local agriculture is an essential component of our local economy and our rural character. The more sustainable and more economically strong our farms are, the more we benefit as a community through improved job creation, soil tilth, food security, and open space preservation.

Her campaign website, https://www.lovelpratt.org/, and Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/ElectLovelPratt, provide more information on her experience as a Council member, competence and her long term commitment to agriculture and our island community.

Thank you for considering a Vote for Lovel Pratt, County Council District 1.

Ken Akoipiantz
Chair GMO-Free San Juans