There is an important contested race this November for the Port of Centralia Board of Commissioners. We would encourage all voters to consider newcomer Ally Pickard.
It has been mentioned by her opponent that her age is a detriment to her candidacy. But from our point of view, we are actually thrilled to see a younger candidate step forward and enter the political arena.
Ally has a common sense perspective about taxpayer dollars and a fine idea of what is good, right and ethical. She hopes to focus on more fiscal accountability, operational transparency and strategic planning from the port. Ally also wants to form a Citizens Advisory Council to gain more input from residents who are impacted by the port’s decisions (i.e., traffic congestion, property tax implications and economic effects).
If you have the time, we would also recommend you attend a few of the Port of Centralia meetings, which are held on the first and third Wednesdays of the month, 3 p.m. in the afternoon. Call in advance, however, as they sometimes cancel. The meetings usually don’t last long and they can be eye-opening.
You may have an opportunity to see the dysfunction and toxic interactions first hand, as happened at their most recent meeting on Oct. 15.
We believe it is time for a change. We, therefore, will be voting for Ally Pickard and encourage you to do the same.
Randy and Sherri Garland
Centralia
