Editor's note: The following letter was written by Ally Pickard, who defeated Port of Centralia Commissioner Julie Shaffley during the recent general election.
I want to begin by thanking the citizens of Centralia for their support. Winning this election and becoming your new port commissioner is an incredible honor.
I am deeply grateful to the many faithful volunteers and supporters who stood beside me throughout this campaign. I know I wouldn’t be here today without you. Thank you for having the hard conversations, for canvassing, volunteering at events, putting out signs, and for helping share our vision for the future of Centralia.
I also want to recognize my opponent, Julie Shaffley, for her many years of service to this community. It’s not easy to run for office in America right now, and I commend anyone willing to step up and try. Politics can get pretty rough at times, but I believe that no matter how far apart our visions may seem, at the core we all want what’s best for Centralia.
I know that together we can work collaboratively to create shared goals and a solid plan for the future of our city.
Since the election, I’ve already been asked which special interest group I’m a part of or who now “controls” the port. I want to make it absolutely clear — come January, the citizens will be in control. You will be the central force guiding every decision and every plan that moves us forward.
I believe there are two kinds of politicians in America today.
The first kind views the election as a personal victory. They make decisions based solely on their own opinions and convictions, as though winning means they know best. They treat leadership like a popularity contest and dismiss anyone who dares to disagree. With this mindset, they feel they have been given complete power. They are bold, inflexible and refuse to collaborate.
The second kind recognizes that being elected is not about personal victory, but public service. They see themselves as humble servant leaders who bring the people’s voice into every decision. They understand they can’t possibly know every perspective, so they listen. They seek advice from all constituents, research carefully and collaborate before making choices that impact the community.
That’s the kind of commissioner I strive to be, a true citizen representative. Someone who understands that I am called to serve all citizens, even those who have a different outlook than me.
Centralia is on the cusp of major growth and prosperity. It’s time for everyone to get involved to help steer our future toward something that benefits all of us.
I also want to give a very special thank you to my husband, Sean, and our son, Theodore. Without their love, support and sacrifice, I would not have been able to run such a strong campaign.
My husband has been my steady sounding board, my source of encouragement and the one who kept me grounded with his prayers through countless meetings and long days. And to Theodore, thank you for being patient when I missed bedtime stories and goodnight kisses so I could attend those meetings. Being your mom is an honor, and I hope this shows you that with hard work and heart, you can make a difference too.
Thank you.
Ally Pickard
Centralia
