You saw the headline: “Swope Second on Lewis County Commission to Contract COVID-19.” You also read Commissioner Sean Swope’s comment that he “took everything that the CDC said not to take.” So then, why am I writing? Certainly not to “say mean things” as he suggested some might do. Nope, I have another reason for my concern and alarm. And it focuses on Swope’s abilities and basis for making rational decisions on my behalf, a resident of Lewis County.
On Jan. 4, 2021, Swope was sworn into office by Judge James Buzzard. Feel free to search for the full language of this oath, but it includes the following: “I do solemnly swear or affirm that I will support the Constitution and laws of the United States and the State of Washington; and that I will faithfully and impartially discharge the duties of this office to the best of my ability.”
At that ceremony, Judge Buzzard, in a congratulatory statement said, “we’re here to support Sean as he embarks on his new journey as a representative of the people and voice for our community, and a leader of our great county.”
To this, Swope replied, “I look forward to representing us all well, and I’m going to do my best to represent you well.”
As a representative, voice and leader in the county, each elected commissioner is tasked to consider and make decisions on an enormous range of issues. I mean, who can possibly know everything about budget concerns, county roads and property, land use, tax levies, payments, ordinances and other complex issues?
It’s just not possible. I truly hope that all our commissioners take testimony from experts in the field, ask lots of questions to gain understanding, read and even collaborate among themselves before coming to a decision.
“Experts in the field.” Don’t we seek tips about car repairs, child rearing, gardening, traveling, from experts? Wouldn’t an average citizen seek out and learn from experts? Isn’t it basic common sense then, that when it comes to issues of health, the CDC, the NIH, and the DOH have some expertise, experience and knowledge that we do not?
Of course, anyone can ignore expert advice, and instead do what experts say not to do. Swope admits this as his choice. So, when I extend this reasoning, I ask myself, “How can I trust Sean Swope? Is he making the best-informed decisions on issues that affect me based on educated, expert resources? Is he able to represent me well?”
Not saying mean things – just wondering if this is the best of his ability?
Marilynn Chintella
Chehalis
