Election Guide 2014

2014

A Voters Guide to Okanogan and Ferry Counties

A Supplement to The Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle October 22, 2014

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Okanogan County Assessor Scott D. Furman Party: Democrat, incumbent Age: 56 Town: Omak Family: Wife Pat, two children, Derik and wife Jamie Groomes, Alicia and husband Jacob Wood, three grandchildren.

Background: I grew Furman up in Okanogan, attending all 12 grades of schooling in Okanogan. Graduated from Okanogan High School in 1977.

Bachelor of science in agricultural economics from Washington State University in 1981. Have worked in the county Assessor’s Office for over 30 years, the last 16 as the elected county assessor. State Department of Revenue accredited real estate appraiser, state Department of Licensing licensed certified general real estate appraiser. Past president of the Washington State Association of County Assessors, president in 2005-06, first assessor from Okanogan County in that position in over 40 years. Okanogan Kiwanis Club treasurer the past eight years.

What differentiates you from your opponent?

I have the experience, knowledge and background to continue to lead the office for the next four years. I have first-hand knowledge of the assessortreasurer software that is so important to our daily processes and functions. I have worked hard to develop relationships with the county treasurer as well as all other county departments so that we can work together and meet our common goals of providing good service to the public. I have appraised property throughout the county over the past 30 years and am very familiar with all areas of the county.

What can the Assessor’s Office do to help property owners affected by the Carlton Complex fire?

The fire affected 4,600 parcels of property. Over 360 parcels lost some type of structure from the fire. We just finished up completing tax roll corrections on all affected properties in 2014. We also adjusted those values for taxes due in 2015. We will be mailing notices of value change out to those properties by the end of the week.

This could not have been done without the help of all 12 employees within the Assessor’s Office. This was an unprecedented event, with no manual on how to do

it. We stuck with it and figured out a way to get it done accurately and in a timely manner.

Are there any property assessment policies that should be changed at the state level? What would you do to bring about those changes?

I have worked hard at developing relationships with all of our representatives from the 7th and 12th legislative districts. I attend the Washington State Assessor’s Association Legislative Conference each year in January and meet with our representatives. I have testified many times over the years on various changes to the property tax system, trying to improve efficiencies. I would really like to see the state start paying the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife payment in lieu of tax on lands that they own at the full payment, as stated in statute.

The Legislature has passed overriding legislation that currently limits the payments to about onethird the amount the statue directs them to pay.

Les V. Stokes Party: Conservative Age: 55 Town: Carlton Family: Wife Carrie Schroeder Stokes, stepdaughter Marlena Berkheiser and family of Snohomish, stepson Matthew Mehaffie, late of Stokes Twisp, and sister Paula Stokes of Twisp.

Background: Born in Twisp, lived in upper Methow Valley first 10 and last 35 years. Twisp Fire and Rescue 1979 to 2007, assistant chief 10 years, Twisp Town Council 1994-97, involved in numerous civic committees and groups at town and county level during that time, Aero Methow volunteer EMT 1987-1993, construction and general contractor for over 20 years, currently driving truck for

Lloyd Logging, member Community Covenant Church, Twisp.

What differentiates you from your opponent?

I am non-partisan conservative, and believe that fair market value should reflect what a property would sell for within 90 to 120 days of being put on market as is. I realize that the bulk of county residents are unable to appear to argue their case due to work and time constraints. First considered running for this when my home was appraised for $60,000. It took several thousand dollars and several years before it sold for $53,500, with real estate gaining 510 percent per year. In the 1980s, the house would have sold at appraised value within weeks.

What can the Assessor’s Office do to help property owners affected by the Carlton Complex fire?

This disaster is enough to make anyone think twice about running for this position. We have 320 square miles of the county directly impacted, and the remainder is likely to be affected as a number of people want to sell what is left and get out. The assessor’s office is going to be hard pressed to adjust values, and county budgets will be impacted. In 1984, Twisp lost its sawmill and with it 50 percent of its property tax base, with existing property value dropping due to a glut on the market, and sales tax likewise dropped.

Are there any property assessment policies that should be changed at the state level? What would you do to bring about those changes?

Property speculation has helped to inflate values in many areas of our county. Likewise, the huge amounts of land purchased by the state as “habitat” has likewise impacted values by, along with restrictive policies, created an artificial shortage of land. These are areas that the state Legislature needs to revisit, along with a thorough investigation of what actually happened from July 14 until homes stopped being lost.

Contents Okanogan County assessor ......................................................................................2 Okanogan County coroner.........................................................................................2 Okanogan County Public Utility District .....................................................................3 Ferry County commissioner.......................................................................................4 Ferry County prosecuting attorney ............................................................................4 Ferry County sheriff ...................................................................................................5 Ferry County treasurer...............................................................................................5 7th District House ......................................................................................................6 7th District Senate .....................................................................................................7 Unopposed candidates ..............................................................................................7 U.S. House candidates ..............................................................................................8 Winthrop Fire Hall ......................................................................................................9 Mid-Valley Hospital, Tonasket sales tax, Tonasket EMS..........................................10

Okanogan County Coroner Gary V. Reams Party: No stated preference Age: 62 Town: Omak Family: Wife Donna, son Nick, daughter Anya, five grandchildren Background: Medicclinical specialist in U.S. Army Reams 1972-74, 30 years medical background as a licensed practical nurse and respiratory therapy, 21 years at Mid-Valley Hospital in Omak, 1.5 years working for Legacy Funeral Home in Omak, doing body removals and transports.

Is it more important for a county coroner to have a medical background or a law enforcement background, and why?

I believe that the coroner should have a medical background to work alongside of law enforcement to come to a better conclusion of the cause of death.

What would be your priorities as coroner?

My priorities, as coroner, would be to work as a team with the investigation, show compassion to the family of the deceased and explain procedures as needed.

How would you structure your department, in terms of appointing deputy coroners?

I structuring the department, I would call on the resources needed.

Deputy coroners would need a good knowledge of the procedures, through background or future education.

Dave Rodriguez Party: Republican Age: 53 Town: Okanogan County over 25 years

Family: Two children Background: Twenty-four years of law enforcement experience, all in Okanogan County. I am a graduate of three Rodriguez police academies, I have a bachelor of science degree from Colorado State University and I’ve been trained through the Washington Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners as a death investigator. I have been involved with numerous death investigations while employed with the Sheriff’s Office. These cases include homicides, suicides, accidental deaths, traffic fatalities as well as deaths from natural causes.

Additionally, I was a state-certified advanced EMT and worked as a volunteer EMT for 13 years.

Is it more important for a county coroner to have a medical background or a law enforcement background, and why?

The primary job of the coroner is to determine the cause and manner of death after a thorough investigation. In the context of my law enforcement job I have performed many of the duties that are required of a coroner, including death notifications, positive identification of deceased subjects, locating next of kin, attending autopsies, documenting scenes, advising the county prosecutor/coroner regarding cause and manner of death and coordinating with the county’s contract medical examiner and the state anthropologist.

It’s important to point out that the coroner operates independent of law enforcement agencies and medical providers and is responsible directly to the people

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2014 Okanogan and Ferry County Voters’ Guide ©2014 The Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle Owned and operated by Eagle Newspapers Inc. 618 Okoma Drive, Omak, WA 98841 P.O. Box 553, Omak, WA 98841 Roger Harnack, editor and publisher Dee Camp, project editor Teresa Myers, advertising manager 509-826-1110 • 800-572-3446 Fax: 509-826-5819 www.omakchronicle.com Cover design: Katie Montanez

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Coroner from 2

Okanogan County Public Utility District Scott Vejraska Non-partisan position Age: 37 Town: Omak Family: Craig Vejraska (dad), MaryK (mom), Todd Vejraska (brother), Grandma Elda Vejraska Background: I’m a third generation Vejraska rancher, for the past 37 years I’ve grown up on the family ranch in the Omak area, and still to this day work on the ranch.

I graduated from Omak High School, then attended Northeast Community College in Norfolk, Neb., where I received a degree in utility line. For the last 16 years I have worked in the utility line industry. I currently work at Nespelem Valley Electric Co-op as a lineman.

Should the PUD continue investing in wind power, and why?

The PUD should not purchase anymore wind power. They have already invested in a wind farm. The PUD is not required by law like some

other utilities to use wind power.

The cost of wind power compared to hydro is almost five times more expensive. I don’t want to do anything that will cost the ratepayers any more money, so lets stick to hydro. Someday in the future the cost of wind power might come down and if it does, we will look at it then.

Should the utility continue its efforts to revamp Enloe Dam to generate power? Why or why not?

We still have time to secure a partner to help revamp Enloe Dam. It is vital that we do this. We cannot ask the ratepayers to pay for this project if it means a higher utility bill at the end of the month. I believe that this is a good project that will pay off in the future if done correctly. If for some reason we can’t get a partner, we will have to think of a way to do it on our own without costing the ratepayer a single increase of there monthly bill.

Tearing it out is not an option at this time.

What’s your position on the Pateros-to-Twisp transmission line?

It is a no-brainer that we need to build a second line to Twisp. First, we have all seen what can happen

when we don’t have a backup feed to Twisp. The power can go out for days at a time during fires or a bad snow or wind storm. Second, the PUD loses $500,000 a year in what we call line lose with the old line. You may ask what that is. It is when the wire is to small to carry all the electricity that is needed. Like trying to get more water out of a garden hose, only so much can go through it.

David Womack Non-partisan position Age: 53 Town: Omak Family: I have been married to my wife Mary for 23 years. We have two grown children, Laura, a pharmacy tech in Womack Federal Way and Frank, who is serving in the U.S. Coast Guard. We have six beautiful grandchildren.

Background: I have served as your PUD commissioner for 12 years. Before I was elected, I served 15 years as an Omak City Council member.

As both PUD

commissioner and city council member, I have experience in setting budgets, approving contracts and approving vouchers. After reviewing all available information in order to make well informed decisions, I have always kept in mind how rates will affect my friends and family as well as your friends and family. I am also employed as the meat department manager at Gene’s Harvest Foods in Omak for over 33 years.

Should the PUD continue investing in wind power, and why?

We have guaranteed bonds for the current wind project. For that reason, we must continue with this project. The bond debt will be paid in full in 2023, at which time the cost of Nine Canyon gets cut in half. Our contract with Nine Canyon runs through 2030, at which time the PUD has the option to elect to extend the power purchase agreement in five-year increments thereafter. Due to the federal government’s discontinuation of the funding of Renewable Energy Production Incentive (REPI), which the PUD had been receiving in the past, I do not believe we should invest in any

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of Okanogan County.

What would be your priorities as coroner?

It will be my goal, if elected, to work with county officials, first responders, law enforcement investigators, funeral homes, the medical community and the public to establish a professional Coroner’s Office.

It would also be my goal to certify myself and the Okanogan County Coroner’s Office with the national organization within the first year.

I also have a personal interest in being involved with the teen suicide prevention program.

How would you structure your department, in terms of appointing deputy coroners?

Options related to staffing are obviously tied directly to budgets.

The county commissioners are currently hard at work trying to sensibly put next year’s county budget together which would include the new office of coroner.

I will manage the budget afforded the office as efficiently and cost effectively as possible and I believe the most cost effective way to fund any deputy coroner positions would be on a “call out” or “on call” basis.

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Ferry County Commissioner Nathan Davis Party: Republican Age: 40 Town: Republic Family: Married to my wife Shilo for 17 years, and we are raising two teenagers. We attend Lakeview Bible Church, love the country life, and sustainable living with our small farm and garden.

Background: I got my start employed by the local sawmill for 10 years, working my way up to head rig sawyer, until trade practices forced a shutdown. I was able to go back to college (SFCC), receiving an AAS degree as administrative computer specialist.

I was hired by the county as an IT tech in the courthouse. I earned a degree as a certified HVAC technician and started my own business that I have maintained for the last eight years. I was elected to serve a term of six-years as a PUD commissioner.

Why are you running for the position?

If elected, I would use my skills in research and purposeful fiscal responsibility, doing my utmost in representing the will of the people of Ferry County, to bring about financial stability and economic viability to see us through the challenging days ahead. I believe in protecting private property rights, including the right to defend our livestock from predators such as wolves, protecting our trees from neighboring infestations by taking back the responsibility of our forest held in trust by the federal government and returning the control of these lands to the state and local government.

What are your thoughts about wolves and the county’s role in their recovery vs. protection of livestock, pets and human life?

On a county level I believe our responsibility is to stand as a united force against the agencies which throw policies at us that shut us out of our forests, introduce unwanted predators that harm our way of life and means of income, and then refuse to maintain the very forest that would harbor the wildlife, so that they are forced to prey upon us, as well as losing value in loss of timber. We can get behind our Legislature and add the weight of a vocal community.

Leo Jenkins Party: Democrat Age: 31 Town: Republic

PUD from 3 new wind projects at this time.

Should the utility continue its efforts to revamp Enloe Dam to generate power? Why or why not?

I believe we should re-energize Enloe Dam or find someone to take it over. The days of just doing nothing with the dam are over.

In today’s atmosphere we will have to reenergize it or remove it. I believe reenergizing would have the least overall cost to the ratepayers.

We have more information regarding the

Family: Immediate family members names and relationship; wife, Spring Lundgren Jenkins; children, Kezia Lundgren, Alexandria Jenkins and Leviticus Jenkins Background: I am in my second term on the city council of Republic, serving on the public works committee and the Northeast Tri County Jenkins Health District board of directors. I am a journeymen bricklayer and have owned a masonry contracting business since 2011. I am a member of the Chamber of Commerce in Republic and serve on the chamber’s Economic Development Committee.

I have earned an associate of arts degree from Spokane Falls Community College and a bachelors of arts in law and society from the Pennsylvania State University.

Why are you running for the position?

I am running for county commissioner because I love Ferry County. The focus of my term will be on economic revitalization and fiscal responsibility. The bottom line is that people need jobs, to pay bills and take care of loved ones.

To create economic growth, I’ll work within the powers of my office to bring in new and expand existing businesses in the community. Mining, agriculture and forestry are staples of our economy and I’ll continue to fight for them. Tourism is as important as natural resources, and efforts should be made to market Ferry County’s tourism to its fullest potential.

What are your thoughts about wolves and the county’s role in their recovery vs. the protection of livestock, pets and human life?

Humans are at the top of the food chain.

You have the right to defend you and yours and your livelihood against harm. I think that the people affected by wolves should have a say in their management, and am disappointed that the Department of Fish and Wildlife has not listened.

I will support any local legislation that protects an individual’s right to defend themselves and their property from a wolf.

I will argue against uncontrolled growth of wolf packs in any forum I can.

However, I also don’t condone poaching.

cost to re-energize the dam than we do the cost to study, remove and clean up all the sediment behind the dam. Study, removal and clean up could cost the rate payers much more than re-energizing.

What’s your position on the Pateros-to-Twisp transmission line?

I believe we should finish the Pateros-toTwisp transmission line. Enough time and ratepayers’ money has been spent on this project. After years of litigation we are close to being able to build a new line to the Methow Valley and offer a more reliable and redundant power line.

Ferry County Prosecuting Attorney Emma Paulsen Party: Republican Age: 36 Town: Republic Family: Married with two children.

Background: Ferry County deputy prosecutor — felony division; WSBA teaching faculty — Web course; owner of Law Office of Emma J. Paulsen Paulsen — Class A-qualified defender, dependencies, infractions, family law; certified child interviewer; guardian ad litem; former Drug Court prosecutor and defender; former deputy coroner (completed WACME training). Member, Washington State Bar Association, 2004; graduated from Gonzaga University School of Law, 2004; Eastern Washington University, 2000; North Central High School, Spokane, 1995.

Should Ferry County continue to turn over its higher profile felony prosecutions to the state?

The prosecutor’s office should maintain a presence in all cases filed in Ferry County.

There are very complex, time-consuming and lengthy trial cases where a small office such as this one may need assistance from the attorney general. However, it is my intention that there will be a Ferry County prosecutor attached to each and every prosecution, regardless of the complexity or difficulty of the case.

Would you restructure the duties for personnel in the prosecuting attorney’s office? Please explain.

Yes, the deputy prosecutor and I would work together managing all caseloads so that cases are not missed, and there is adequate coverage during periods of absence for either attorney. The community would be better served by consistent case outcomes, and shared information between courts. The office staff do a wonderful job; those job duties would remain the same.

What do you see as the biggest challenge for the prosecuting attorney’s office?

Ferry County has limited funding available for additional staff, technology and programs. As the prosecutor, I will find creative ways to maximize the resources we

already have; look for new programs, grants and training scholarships; and will be financially responsible in making improvements.

James A. von Sauer Party: Republican Age: 64 Town: Republic Family: Wife Jessica O. Garrovillo-von Sauer.

Father Norman G. Sauer, mother Irene M. Sauer.

Brother Georg N. von Sauer, sister Vicki Winship Background: I have practiced law since 1978 in von Sauer California and in Washington state since 1996. I was the 2003-2006 term Ferry County prosecuting attorney and coroner.

From 1998-2000 I was the Ferry County deputy prosecuting attorney. Private practice since 2007.

Should Ferry County continue to turn over its higher profile felony prosecutions to the state?

I have and will continue to handle my own cases. Emergencies do happen and when they do, outside resources may be used. The voters elect the prosecuting attorney so that local values will enter into the decision to prosecute. Allowing the Attorney General’s Office to make charging decisions defeats local interests coming into play and allows one-size-fits-all justice.

Some murder cases require trial expenses that the local prosecutor’s budget will not allow.

For effective trial preparation, investigation and for expert witness retention and in cases where conflict prevent the local prosecutor from handling the case outside resource may be required to be used.

Would you restructure the duties for personnel in the prosecuting attorney’s office? Please explain.

Probably. The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office reflects the interest of the elected prosecuting attorney. I have no doubt that the office has not been run as I would have

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SIGNS

Ferry County Sheriff Raymond Maycumber Party: Republican Age: 40 Town: Republic Family: Wife Amber; children Donovan and Alex.

Background: I was Maycumber born and raised in Republic, Washington, where I enjoy a family history of nearly 100 years. I graduated from Republic High School in 1991. I left Republic to attend Eastern Washington University, where I earned a bachelors’ degree in criminal justice. In May of 2001 I was blessed with the opportunity to return to Republic with my family and take a position as a Republic police officer. In 2004 I transferred to the Ferry County Sheriff’s Office and I am currently the chief criminal deputy and E911 coordinator responsible for a budget comparable in size to the sheriff.

What would you do as sheriff to reduce drug abuse in this era of legalized marijuana?

With the legalization of marijuana, a whole host of misunderstandings about its legality have come up. I believe that educating the public on what is and is not legal as it pertains to marijuana will be a good start in understanding the limitations of this confusing piece of legislation. I have always believed that an informed public is an empowered public, and clearing the air on marijuana and other drugs will be best accomplished through relationships with community groups such as the “What’s Right?”

RRAD Coalition and strict enforcement of other drug and alcohol offenses.

As sheriff, what would you do to better enforce restricted access to street drugs?

Working with the community and groups such as the North Central Washington Narcotics Task Force and our neighboring agencies to identify focal points to weaken the traffic of drugs through this area. With the limited resources available in Ferry County, the community will be key in identifying the problem areas so that we can prioritize our efforts to be the most efficient.

How will you bridge the gap between the community and Sheriff’s Office to ensure public trust and safety?

OF THE TIMES

I plan to establish points of contact within each willing community within Ferry County.

We will organize monthly meetings where deputies will come and provide a report of our efforts in those areas. They will seek input from the people of those regions to help create a specialized law enforcement action plan for those communities to maximize efficiency and gain the trust of the people of Ferry County.

Thomas L. Williams Party: No stated party preference Age: Not provided Town: Republic Family: Married to Cheri Williams, 14 years.

Background: 28 Williams years of law enforcement experience, performing duties as undersheriff, deputy sheriff, detective, emergency management, Homeland Security, clandestine lab investigations, narcotics investigations, D.E.A. training, budget preparation/management, grant preparation/management.

Honorably discharged from U.S. Army. I have proudly served the citizens of Ferry County for 21 years, and raised my family here. I am a law enforcement officer and citizen in Ferry County. I believe in honest, unbiased, trained professional law enforcement. I believe in public safety, trust, accountability, commitment and community involvement. I have dedicated myself to the citizens of Ferry County by listening to concerns and taking action when needed.

What would you do as sheriff to reduce drug abuse in this era of legalized marijuana?

Legalized marijuana has created the problem of easier access, much like alcohol. As sheriff I would start by educating the public and getting information into the schools about the dangers.

I would use a multi-pronged approach including public education ads and outreach programs to reduce first-time drug use; cross train deputies in narcotic investigations; work with the prosecutor to ensure these crimes are properly charged and investigations completed. I would also support a proven drug court

See Sheriff 7

Brock Hires/The Chronicle

Election signs sprout on a hillside along state Highway 20 in Republic.

Ferry County Treasurer Rochelle Rodak Party: Republican Age: 34 Town: Republic Family: Immediate family members Tattem Rodak, daughter, Tristin Rodak, son.

Mother Mary Masingale BackRodak ground: I was supervisor with Bank of America before transitioning to Washington Federal, where I have continued to act as second in command. My position with the bank is responsible for 90 percent of the audit responsibility, and we have yet to receive anything but high marks. I have proven my flexibility in learning new systems and adapting to new policies. I am confident that I can manage a staff, as I currently have three people that report directly to me. I look forward to taking on the challenges of being your next Ferry County treasurer.

Why are you running for the position?

Prosecutor from 4 operated the office.

Changes will be made to fit my policies and manner of my practice of law. If I am elected, the tail will

I have been interested in this position since speaking with the incumbent Kathleen Rupp about her impending retirement. I feel that she has given me a clear picture of what this office requires for leadership and I know that I am more than capable of delivering.

There are many things that could be updated, and I’m excited to see our county join the 21st century.

What policies could be changed to improve local government?

Most of the current policies that involve the treasurer’s office are determined in Olympia, but there are improvements we can make the processes and the constituent’s experience with our office. Most of these include updates to the systems and a review of policies concerning past due taxes. The biggest change that I can think of right now is the county banking, currently it is still held with Bank of America, who left our county, and I’d like to see our business back in the communities we serve.

What differentiates you from your opponent?

I have gained the trust of my customers and my community. I am not afraid to dig deep and find where I can improve a situation. And

example is the county banking, without doing any research my opponent is convinced it cannot be done or changed. It will not be easy, but I’m not afraid to take the challenge and do what is right for our county and our people.

not wag the dog.

What do you see as the biggest challenge for the prosecuting attorney’s office?

Gaining back a reputation for hardworking, honest, fair, truthful

and effective prosecution. The office needs to show the community that each citizen’s constitutional rights will be honored and that local community interests will be considered important.

Joy Culp Party: Republican Age: Not provided Town: Republic Family: Not provided Background: I have 20-plus years experience in accounting and bookkeeping, including more than four years as deputy clerktreasurer and clerk-treasurer for the city of Republic. I am a 30-year member of the Eagles Auxiliary. I have volunteered in various fundraisers in our community. I went to school here in Republic, graduating in 1981. In 2007, I received my degree in office administration and accounting technologies from Skagit Valley College. I am certified in business communications, microcomputer accounting, software applications, payroll accounting, small business accounting and bookkeeping.

Culp did not respond to Chronicle election questions.

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7th District House, position No. 1 James R. Apker Party: Libertarian Age: 38 Town: Mead Family: Harry R. and Ramona R. Apker, parents Background: I was raised in Elk and Chattaroy, Wash. I went to and graduated from Riverside High School.

Along with this, I have two Apker degrees — one in network engineering and the other in construction management, with a minor in building inspection. The son and grandson of construction workers, I learned early on that the best way to get anywhere was by using my hands, feet and the sweat of my brow. My grandfather was born and raised in Mexico.

He came to this country with the dream of making a better life and he came here legally.

Area ranchers and residents are upset about the state’s inability to effectively manage wolves. What would you do to alleviate their concerns?

This issue is going to be a constant battle between wolf advocates, Department of Ecology and the Legislature. Part of the reason why we are in this mess to begin with is because our representative, by her own acknowledgement and admission, has abdicated the power you granted her to these agencies that do not have your best interest in mind, your family in mind or your business in mind. It is time to take that

power back and make sure the people have it and not these agencies, which are running amuck, hurt the public simply because of agenda that is not or was not thought out prior to implementation.

The Buckhorn Mine is expected to close next year. Who do you think should be the state’s role in keeping/bringing living wage jobs?

As your representative, one of my roles/my jobs is to seek companies that are looking to relocate or looking for a new home. When Remington was looking for a new home, where was Shelly? Why doesn’t she actively seek out these companies out to bring them to our home? Or why didn’t she seek them out when it was common knowledge that they were looking for a new home? I would have courted Remington with facts about the 7th District and how we have the best work force in Washington and how Washington’s 7th District is the perfect place to set up shop and call home.

Tell voters what distinguishes you from your opponent.

What distinguishes me from Shelly is the philosophy of governing. The philosophy of liberty in which you own yourself and everything you produce verses the philosophy of making sure that special interest, political action committees and large corporations get what they want or need before the people do.

The philosophy, jobs and the ability to support your family, save money for college and your retirement versus our current situation of losing jobs, shrinking paychecks and no retirement options. It is the philosophy of knowing that being a representative is not a

intend to push for regional delisting, given that 13 of the 16 wolf packs in the state are located in our district. I will continue to support the ability of citizens to protect their lives and property without fear of prosecution. Ultimately, wolves should be classified as predators for management. In the meantime, I will do all I can to ensure the Department of Fish and Wildlife answers to the public. Their current failure to act places our communities and livelihoods at risk.

The Buckhorn Mine is expected to close next year. Who do you think should be the state’s role in keeping/bringing living wage jobs?

My role would be to ensure that all agencies involved in any permit decisions act in a timely and predicable manner. Certainty is critical for businesses investing capital into projects. Also, state agencies should not be allowed to use taxpayer dollars to buy large tracts of land that could be productively put to use in our local economies. The state needs to stop supporting policies that increase the cost of electricity and fuel prices; these policies give mixed signals to businesses looking to invest in our communities. Manufacturing needs to be encouraged as does reform to regulations and permit processes.

Tell voters what distinguishes you from your opponent.

My 20 years of experience fighting for folks is what sets me apart from my opponent. I have a proven track record of standing up for our conservative principles, building the necessary relationships and the know how to get things done in Olympia.

lifelong position, but a term of service that must be replenished often to keep this representative government healthy and vibrant.

Shelly Short Party: Republican Age: 52 Short Town: Addy Family: Husband, Mitch, married 24 years; and two grown children, Trevor and Brianna Background: I have had the privilege of serving the 7th District in the Legislature for the last six years. I have been the go-to person on environmental issues and am the lead Republican on the Environment Committee.

My top priority has been protecting my constituents from over-bearing agencies, such as Ecology and Fish and Wildlife. I have successfully passed legislation that now requires these agencies to show their scientific work to the public when used to justify regulations. Ultimately, I believe that only the highest level of scientific review ought to be used in developing regulations. Anything less is unacceptable.

Area ranchers and residents are upset about the state’s inability to effectively manage wolves. What would you do to alleviate their concerns?

Okanogan County is very unique in that wolves are federally delisted east of Highway 97 and the remainder of the county is not. I

7th District House, position No. 2 Joel Kretz Party: Republican Age: 57 Town: Wauconda Family: Wife, Sara, and son, Jed Background: Thirtyfour years as a small business owner in the timber and ranching professions gives me a good understanding of the Kretz regulatory nightmare Washington State has become. That frustration led to years of grassroots efforts attempting to build a better business climate, and reduce unnecessary and burdensome regulation, including spending time working on these issues in Olympia. In 2004, a legislative seat opened and I decided to use that experience on another level. I have focused on forcing Olympia to live within its means, prioritizing spending for the essentials like education, and fostering a better business climate and job creation.

Area ranchers and residents are upset about the state’s inability to effectively manage wolves. What would you do to alleviate their concerns?

It is completely rational to be concerned and upset; wolf recovery isn’t working for rural Washington. Most of the support for

wolves comes from areas where there are no wolves, and until they feel the impacts it is difficult to fix. For that reason, I introduced a bill to transplant our “excess” wolves to the Westside and interestingly got no support from wolf advocate legislators. We did get a policy change to allow wolves threatening pets and livestock to be shot. I will be also running bills for regional delisting and better information for livestock producers. We need to be protecting rural families and property.

The Buckhorn Mine is expected to close next year. Who do you think should be the state’s role in keeping/bringing living wage jobs?

Get out of the way! Kinross has never asked for lessened environmental protections; they have asked for agency accountability and predictable timelines.

Seven years permitting to drill 2.5-inch exploration holes clearly illustrates both a state and federal inability to function, and is unacceptable. I am working with a bipartisan group of legislators and groups to address the “analysis paralysis” in this case, and on a broad range of regulatory reforms for other businesses, plus a hard look at how fires are manage Tell voters what distinguishes you from your opponent.

I have not yet met my opponent, so I have a hard time addressing this. I’m sure he’s a nice man. But I think I have a good

Town: Loon Lake Family: Single Background: For the past 11 years, I have practiced law in the field of criminal defense and personal injury following my education at Gonzaga University. While running my law practice, I have also managed a property management company as

understanding of the needs of our rural communities, and have been effective in representing them in Olympia. One broad issue I’ll be focused on is that, in far too many instances, state agencies are very focused at the regulatory end of things, but have forgotten that part of their mission is also to serve the public, and that function needs to be restored.

Ronnie Rae Party: Centralist Age: 37

Rae

See House 7

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7th District Senate Tony Booth Party: Republican Age: 43 Town: Colville Family: Married to Leslie 21 years; four children, Jordan, 18, Chevy, 16, LT, 13 and Ashley, 9.

Background: Business owner in Stevens County and Okanogan Booth County with over 100 full time employees. I have been a business owner for over 13 years and have been in the same line of business for 25.

My strong points are managing budgets and jobs.

What do you see as the biggest challenge for the state?

Keeping our taxes in line and NO more increases, we just need to manage with what we have.

Do you think the Legislature should halt funding for state agencies’ land acquisitions? Why or why not?

I believe all land should be private and not ran or owned by the state or federal offices. I would vote no to any land purchases to the state or federal government.

What are your thoughts about wolves and the state’s role in their recovery vs. protection of livestock, pets and human life?

We are now ready to take this to the office and start a hunting season and take back and manage the wolves locally and also give farmers and ranchers a chance to protect there livestock and property.

Brian Dansel Party: Republican Age: 31 Town: Republic Family: My wife Carrie Dansel and my 19-monthold son, Gavin Dansel.

Background: I am a life-long resident of the 7th Legislative District (Republic) with a more recent background as your

Dansel

House from 6 well as a small bee and chicken farm.

Area ranchers and residents are upset about the state’s inability to effectively manage wolves. What would you do to alleviate their concerns?

With similar concerns of wolves in my own backyard the last few years and loss of my own livestock, I feel that the only good wolf is a dead one. The wolves should all be removed dead or alive. I have always priorities the needs of a person over that of an animal. The problem will get worse before it gets better under the current system. In the meantime, I will personally shoot to kill.

The Buckhorn Mine is expected to close next year. Who do you think should be the state’s role in

state senator. With numerous friends, neighbors and family members employed by Kinross at the Buckhorn Mine site, I am all too aware of the burdensome regulatory and permitting processes in Washington state.

As vice chairman of the Natural Resources Committee in the Senate, I was proud to vote on a budget with no funding for state land acquisitions throughout the entire state. This was the first time in 70 years that the state hasn’t been approved to acquire land.

What do you see as the biggest challenge for the state?

The biggest challenge will be to create a business-friendly climate by reducing or removing regulations that prevent our small businesses from surviving and energizing our economy. They are the backbone of our local economies, and if we remove some red tape, there will be more opportunities, both for employers and employees. That along with the same common sense your readers would use to balance their personal checkbooks, will allow for sound management of their tax dollars.

Do you think the Legislature should halt funding for state agencies’ land acquisitions? Why or why not?

Yes. As I stated previously, this year was the first year since the World War II era that we didn’t approve funding for a single acre of land acquisitions. As it is already, the state instituted the Discovery Pass, yet we are told that still doesn’t pay for the state lands already taken out of private ownership. Why then, would we acquire more lands, when we can’t take care of what we already have? I will continue to oppose land acquisitions.

What are your thoughts about wolves and the state’s role in their recovery vs. protection of livestock, pets and human life?

First and foremost, the wolf should be regionally de-listed from the Endangered Species Act list. As apparent by recent happenings in Stevens County and Ferry County, we certainly aren’t hurting for more wolves. I believe that every individual has the right to protect ourselves, our families, pets, livestock and property.

Given the time of year, it would seem appropriate to also mention that wolves will negatively impact our hunting possibilities moving forward. keeping/bringing living wage jobs?

My father has been laid off more times than I can count as mines and smelters collapsed everywhere we turned. If the state would issue more permits and deregulate mining and logging in the area, our communities will once again thrive. Mining expansion is critical and the state has a duty to finds ways to return workers to safe mines.

Tell voters what distinguishes you from your opponent.

My opponent has disrespected the Constitution and the people of Washington with his numerous votes that were aimed to prevent our countries hard-fought constitutional freedoms and liberties. Anyone who votes against civil liberties should not be in office. I am independent in my politics, I can forge party lines and vote for the people, not the party.

Some candidates are unopposed The Chronicle OKANOGAN – Several positions in Okanogan and Ferry counties — and some legislative seats and statewide races — drew a single candidate.

Unopposed candidates include: Okanogan County – Laurie Thomas, Republican, auditor; Roger Harnack/The Chronicle Charleen Groomes, Republican, county clerk; Signs for candidates in contested races are planted along the Leah McCormack, Old Riverside Highway in north Omak.

Republican, treasurer; Jim DeTro, Republican, county partisan, Public Utility District commissioner District No. 3; Heidi Smith, commissioner, District No. 3.

District Court judge, position No. 1; Charles Legislative District No. 12 – Cary D. Short, District Court judge, position No. Condotta, Republican, position No. 1; Brad 2; Karl F. Sloan, Democrat, prosecuting Hawkins, Republican, position No. 2. attorney; Frank Rogers, Republican, sheriff.

State – Kevin M. Corsmo, non-partisan, Ferry County – Rachel D. Siracuse, Court of Appeals, division 2, district 1, Republican, assessor; Dianna Galvan, position 2; Mary Yu, Supreme Court justice, Republican, auditor; Jean Bremner Booher, position 1; Mary E. Fairhurst, Supreme Court Democrat, clerk; Douglas R. Aubertin, non- justice, position 3.

Sheriff from 5 program to deal with the end user.

As sheriff, what would you do to better enforce restricted access to street drugs?

I would use a multi-pronged approach including, public education ads and outreach programs to reduce first-time drug use; cross train deputies in narcotic investigations; work with the prosecutor to ensure these crimes are properly charged and investigations completed; retain the working agreement with the North Central Washington Narcotics Task Force (providing additional detective when necessary). I will use existing law to seize property used in these crimes, to communicate that we are serious about reclaiming our community from dealers and that their actions will cost them more than jail time. Those monies

would be used for further narcotic investigations.

How will you bridge the gap between the community and Sheriff’s Office to ensure public trust and safety?

Outreach programs will be started and what voters will see is more transparency and teamwork between the Sheriff’s Office and the citizens through developing good working relationships in which more information will be shared. This will result in more crimes being solved and more drugs taken off the streets. I will operate in the office and in the community answering response calls as needed. I will seek honest, unvarnished feedback from businesses and citizens. I will always put citizens first and work to improve public safety in our community; making changes whenever necessary.

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Page 8

4th District U.S. House

5th District U.S. House

Clint Didier

Dan Newhouse

Cathy McMorris Rodgers

Joseph “Joe” Pakootas

Party: Republican Age: 55 Town: Eltopia Family: Wife Kristi; four children, daughter Brandie, and sons Travis, Justin and Zachary Background: Clint Didier grew up on a farm near Eltopia, Wash. After graduating from Connell Didier High School, Clint attended Columbia Basin Junior College for two years, and two more at Portland State University, where he played football. After graduation, Clint was drafted in the 12th round by the Washington Redskins. This led to a seven-year career with the Redskins, including participation in three Super Bowls, followed by two more years with the Green Bay Packers. After retiring from the NFL in 1990, he moved his family to farming near the original family farm. Clint also owns and operates an excavation company.

North-Central Washington residents are signing in droves onto a proposal for federal lands to be returned to local ownership and management. Do you support the proposal? Why or why not?

Being a strong believer in state’s rights, and since the federal government has no constitutional authority to own any land beyond that for postal, roads and military, I will work tirelessly to see that federal lands are returned to state control. For many years, we have witnessed the feds taking our money and our land and holding it hostage for an agenda of whoever is in control at the time. If we are to maintain our individual liberty, this abject power-grab must cease.

The federal government debt continues to grow on the backs of taxpayers. What would you do to curtail federal spending?

A balanced budget amendment sounds nice, but in some ways it’s a Trojan Horse. If you don’t stop tax increases, and even reduce them along with spending, then a balanced budget amendment will do nothing. I have signed a written pledge to 4th District citizens that I will not vote for new or increases in existing taxes, nor will I support any measure that increases the size, scope or budgets of the federal government by as much as one dollar. Therefore, a constitutional amendment is unneeded, and why our founders didn’t add it to the Constitution in the first place.

Since you and your opponent are both Republicans with an agricultural background, tell voters what distinguishes you from your opponent.

I’m the grassroots, no-nonsense constitutional conservative — he is the establishment candidate parading as a conservative, but making no firm commitments to anything. He says “I would like.” I say “I will.” He says I’m extreme, I say he’s weak. If voters want more of the same, he’s your guy. If you think it’s time we go somewhere new, vote for me. Thanks.

Party: Republican Age: 59 Town: Sunnyside Family: Carol, wife; Devon and Haley Newhouse, son and daughter-in-law; Jensena, daughter.

Background: Dan was elected four times to the Washington state House of Newhouse Representatives and served from 2003 to 2009. In the Legislature, he was known as a pro-jobs conservative problem solver.

Recognized by the National Federation of Independent Businesses and the Association of Washington Business for his commitment to pro-growth policies, Dan will bring the same set of values with him to Congress.

From 2009 to 2013, Dan served as director of Washington state’s Department of Agriculture helping promote the state’s abundant agricultural resources and encouraging the next generation of family farms.

North-Central Washington residents are signing in droves onto a proposal for federal lands to be returned to local ownership and management. Do you support the proposal? Why or why not?

I agree that public land-use decisions should be made locally and not by federal bureaucrats.

Given the current political makeup in Washington, D.C., I don’t think a full-scale sale of all federal lands is possible, but we can do everything we can to make sure that the people closest to the land are the ones deciding how best to use it.

The federal government debt continues to grow on the backs of taxpayers. What would you do to curtail federal spending?

First, enact a constitutional balanced budget amendment.

The political establishment has proven it can’t be trusted to balance the budget on its own, so this is a necessary step. Second, we need to look at entitlement reform.

I differ from my opponent in that I don’t support doing away with Social Security and Medicare. However, I do believe some reforms may be necessary to make sure those programs remain stable and solvent.

Since you and your opponent are both Republicans with an agricultural background, tell voters what distinguishes you from your opponent.

I’m going to Congress to solve problems for Central Washington, not to add to the gridlock.

We’re all Americans — I don’t believe in “us vs. them” — and if we’re ever going to make progress on real issues like improving the economy, balancing the budget, securing our borders, reforming our immigration system and making sure we have an adequate water supply, we’re all going to have to work together in good faith.

I will be a problem-solver, not a bomb thrower.

Party: Republican Age: 45 Town: Spokane Family: Husband Brian Rodgers; three children, Cole, Grace and Brynn Background: Highest-ranking Republican woman in Congress, first elected to Congress in 2004; first in McMorris her family to graduate Rodgers from college, later earned an executive master of business administration from the University of Washington; served five terms in the state House and served as minority leader; worked at her family’s fruit stand near Kettle Falls.

McMorris Rodgers did not respond to Chronicle election questions.

Age: 57 Town: Inchelium Family: Wife Cheryl; four children; six grandchildren Background: Grew up in Inchelium, has a master’s in business administration from the University of Washington, former member (16 years) and chairman of the Pakootas Colville Business Council, CEO of Colville Tribal Federal Corp., the tribe’s business arm.

He and his wife own and operate Inchelium Short Stop gas station and convenience store; former construction worker, volunteer youth sports coach.

Pakootas did not respond to Chronicle election questions.

Write-in choices are allowed OKANOGAN — Voters can choose “none of the above” in any race by writing in a name.

Each ballot has a place for write-in candidates.

Anyone who wants to be a write-in candidate can file a declaration of

candidacy with the county auditor’s office up to election day. Declarations of candacy for write-in candidates must be accompanied by the filing fee required of other candidates for the office.

—The Chronicle

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

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Page 9

Fire District No. 6

Drawing shows proposed Winthrop Fire Hall. Voters are being asked to approve a 20-year levy lid lift to pay for the new facility.

Fire district wants new Winthrop hall Voters asked to lift levy lid to pay for new, $2.4 million facility at edge of town The Chronicle WINTHROP – The town’s fire trucks are shoehorned into the station so tightly that there’s barely enough room for a person to walk around them.

That creates a dangerous situation, which Fire District No. 6 commissioners are asking voters to address during the Nov. 4 election.

Voters will be asked to decide on a 20year levy lid lift to build a new station. The measure would cost property owners 17.5 cents per $1,000 of assessed property valuation, or about $35 per year for the owner of property assessed at $200,000. It would be in addition to the regular fire district levy of 61.5 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation.

State officials have said the building poses a threat to firefighter safety. They found six areas in the station where clearance between engines and personnel is too close and poses unsafe operating conditions that endanger firefighters.

“Firefighters changing into gear for a call have 12 inches or less between them and a moving, 50,000-pound fire engine,” the district said. The closeness makes it “impossible for engine drivers to see where volunteers may be as they head out for a call.”

Those unsafe operating conditions could result in volunteers being injured or killed,

“

Firefighters changing into gear for a call have 12 inches or less between them and a moving, 50,000-pound fire engine.

Fire District No. 6

” the district said, adding tight conditions “leave little margin for error with moving engines and volunteers rushing to respond.”

The tight conditions have affected recruiting, with the Winthrop station down to 10 volunteers when it should have around 25, the district said.

Even if more volunteers turned out, the cramped quarters mean there’s no place for them to hang or change into their gear and safety conditions would be worse with additional crowding, district officials said.

Besides their own calls, Winthrop firefighters respond to all emergency calls in Twisp and Mazama, and 60 percent of Carlton’s calls. All four areas are within Fire District No. 6, which stretches from Gold Creek to the Lost River area north of Mazama.

Fire District No. 6 leases the building, at 223 Englar St., from the town of Winthrop.

The site is too small for renovations to

accommodate the needed safety changes, the district said.

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The new station, proposed for Horizon Flats Road west of the downtown area, would cost an estimated $2.4 million. Along with parking and staging space, it would include training space and decontamination facilities so firefighters can wash smoke and other hazardous substances from their gear, sleeping quarters, a kitchen, community meeting rooms and offices.

Fire District No. 6 already owns the property for the proposed station, and has paid for architectural and engineering work for its design.

A public meeting is planned for 7-8 p.m.

Oct. 28 at the fire station.

The meetings will include tours of the current fire station, Chief Don Waller said.

At 350 square miles, Fire District No. 6 is the largest in the county, geographically. It operates out of four stations.

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Page 10

Mid-Valley Hospital seeks bond issue for spruce-ups

Tonasket seeks voter OK for sales tax increase

Administrator: Aging building’s climatecontrol, water and sewer systems all need attention, as do roof and patient bathrooms

TONASKET – The city is asking voters to consider increasing the sales tax by 0.1 percent.

One-third of the revenue would be used for criminal justice or fire protection.

City Clerk Alice Attwood said sales tax revenue fluctuates from year to year, so she doesn’t have

The Chronicle OMAK – Voters will be asked Nov. 4 to consider a bond issue to pay for improvements to the aging MidValley Hospital building.

The main portion of the hospital, 810 Jasmine St., was built about 50 years ago and is showing its age, Billing Administrator Mike Billing said.

Its water and sewer systems are leaky and the roof needs attention.

In addition, the heating, ventilating and air conditioning system also needs upgrading.

Hospital officials say the $3.8 million bond issue would cost the

“average homeowner” $5 per month for the issue’s 15-year duration.

The estimated levy rate is about 36 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation, or about $72 per year for the owner of property valued at $200,000.

Okanogan County Chief Deputy Auditor Dee Wood said no estimated levy rate is available from her office.

The hospital district proposes: • Renovating the kitchen to include a new walk-in freezer and cooler, and three patient bathrooms to accommodate handicapped patients; $300,000.

• Upgrading and improving plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems; $2 million.

• Upgrading the electronic medical records system to increase efficiency and comply with state

and federal standards; $1.2 million.

• Doing minor remodeling, asphalt repair and seal coating as funds permit; $300,000.

Mid-Valley already has borrowed to its capacity with the Okanogan County Treasurer’s Office through registered warrants, Billing said.

The bond issue “will help us get out of the crunch and take pressure off operating cash,” he said.

Mid-Valley has trimmed its staff and made other budget adjustments to try and save money. Its financial situation worsened this year, partly as patients responded to uncertainty surrounding implementation of the federal Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, Billing said.

Finances are starting to look better now that people are adjusting to new insurance coverage or changes in their policies, he said.

Mid-Valley added a new emergency room wing a few years ago.

The Chronicle

an estimate of how much would be raised.

The total tax would go from 8.1 percent to 8.2 percent, or from 81 cents on a $10 purchase to 82 cents.

If approved, the increase would go into effect April 1, 2015.

An identical measure failed in November 2012, with 191 voters saying yes and 193 saying no, for a 49.74 percent to 50.26 percent difference.

EMS measure on ballot The Chronicle TONASKET – Voters in the Tonasket Emergency Medical Service District, which includes the city, are being asked to continue the property tax levy to support the ambulance service.

The district is seeking 40 cents

per $1,000 of assessed valuation for 10 years, starting in 2015.

The measure would cost the owner of property valued at $200,000 an estimated $80 per year.

District officials could not be reached for comment on the proposal.

Ferry, Okanogan have ballot drop locations OKANOGAN — Ballot drop-off sites are at the Okanogan County Auditor’s Office, 149 N. Third Ave., Okanogan; Ferry County Auditor’s Office, 350 E. Delaware Ave.,

Republic; 987 S. Clark Ave., Republic; 8 N. Ash St., Omak; 180 Pateros Mall, Pateros, and 209. S. Whitcomb Ave., Tonasket.

–The Chronicle

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Page 12

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