Letter to the Editor: Support Bonnie Canaday for Port Commissioner

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I have been politically active most of my life. I served three terms as the 20th Legislative District senator. The state law allowing economic ports was supported by politically active citizens of Centralia, Chehalis and Winlock. Port districts were approved by voters in Centralia and Chehalis but rejected in Winlock.

The original $0.50/$1,000 valuation tax rate paid off handsomely as evident by the success of Centralia Port No. 1. Centralia voted to add another $0.50/$1,000 to support Port No. 2. Through cooperation the port prepared the ground (port master plan), and the City of Centralia approved expanding utility services (through the Urban Growth Area) and success continued. 

Somewhere along the line distrust and honesty failed. The port withdrew from all communication with county and city planning committees, refused to participate with the Economic Development Council and Industrial Park at TransAlta (IPAT) and openly opposed the north Interstate 5 interchange which could help mitigate port traffic. I know from experience that nothing can be solved without participation. 

I encourage you to support Bonnie Canaday for Port of Centralia commissioner. Bonnies experience with all the stakeholders shows her willingness to work together, which is badly needed for our port. With Bonnie Canaday we all win!

 



Gary Odegaard

Centralia