The Star - News, views and advertising of the Grand Coulee Dam Area

I’m writing in support of Chris Branch for Okanogan County Board of Commissioners. Having dealt with the BOCC for over 10 years since returning to Okanogan County from working with King and Kitsap County governments, I’ve found that Okanogan County is by far the least effective, most unproductive of the three.

They have disregarded advice of their departments, advisors, and citizens only to have the related decisions challenged in court. This wastes time, effort, and most importantly — my tax dollars. As a small business owner, I find this unsettling and am appalled by the fiscal mismanagement traceable directly back to the current commissioners. Chris will lend his expertise and experience in this area and others. He has the education and experience sorely lacking in the present board and a track record of dealing with all sides of an issue, rendering a fair and equitable decision.

Reputable studies show that money spent within a county generates over three times the amount spent, but our county is hemorrhaging jobs due to poor choices initiated by his opponent.

One primary tenet of business or government is that an adversarial relationship with union and other workers is always counterproductive, costing money in the long run. Branch is the person to reverse the current adversarial atmosphere before it’s too late.

I recreate on public lands and am also concerned by the commissioners’ mindset and financial support of organizations promoting transfer of federal public lands to local jurisdictions. These lands belong to all citizens, not just the privileged few. With this BOCC’s track record, such action would be a disaster in the making.

Chris Branch has a history of productive relationships with municipalities, state, and federal agencies rather than an adversarial approach. Above all, he listens before making decisions based purely on emotion and pressure from moneyed interests.

Dave Sunde

Owner D&G Enterprises

Tonasket