First let me clarify that I support Carla Shannon for Lewis County clerk.
As I read and listen to the comments about the election, I wonder, where do some of these people come up with their thoughts and get their information?
So let me clarify from my point of view.
First: Carla Shannon is being supported over her opponent by Sheriff Rob Snaza, County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer, retired Superior Court Clerk Kathy Brack and several prominent attorneys (both Democrats and Republicans). The endorsements of Snaza, Meyer, Brack and these attorneys were made because of Carla’s knowledge, experience and abilities. They work with Carla and recognize her competence and professionalism. They believe Carla Shannon is the best person to serve as our next Lewis County clerk.
Second: As for the “appointed clerk” being endorsed by all his employees, I have never worked anyplace that everybody loved the boss. On the job politics can be even more vicious and intimidating than real politics. It is also my understanding that some folks have resigned their position due to the appointed clerk. Could there be some internal pressures to conform and support him or are promises being made? Just asking the question.
Third: Carla’s opponent claims all this experience in the clerk’s office, not in our clerk’s office, but in Thurston County. It’s a county with a completely different mindset than Lewis County. It has also been my experience that just because you work someplace for a long time does not mean you should be the boss and run the show. It is also my understanding that much of his time was in the collection department for the Thurston County clerk. We have no collections department in the Lewis County Clerk’s Office.
Fourth: As for his recommendation by the county commissioners for appointment, the law requires the Lewis County Republican precinct committee officers to select three candidates to replace a vacant position, as was the case with retiring Clerk Kathy Brack. This was a long process with a lot of information supplied to all PCOs about each candidate. Speeches were given, questions were answered and the selections was made. Carla Shannon was No. 1 by a wide margin and her opponent was No. 3. Not No. 2, but No. 3.
I’ve been told the No. 3 candidate on the list got his appointment in part because at least one commissioner thought the county should have a collections department (an expansion of county government) before learning it would not be cost-effective.
Well, that is my observations and opinion, therefore I am supporting Carla Shannon for Lewis County clerk. I hope you will join me in voting for Carla Shannon.
Fred Rider
Chehalis
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