23 October 2024 This post on the INFORM KITSAP page is my take on the Kitsap County Commissioners Candidates Eggs & Issues event.
23 October 2024 I am posting my take on a phone conversation with Sean Murphy, one of the District 2 Kitsap County Commissioner candidates on the INFORM KITSAP page. I included my take on a Kitsap Transit mailer I received recently.
15 October 2024 I have posted my take on the Eggs & Issues for the 35th and 23rd District candidates on the Inform Kitsap page 9 October 2024 On the INFORM KITSAP page is my take on the Eggs & Issues forum of the 26th District Legislative candidates on 8 October.
5 October 2024 On the INFORM KITSAP page is my take on the League of Women Voters Kitsap Zoom forum for District 1 & 2 Kitsap County Commissioner candidates.
2 October 2024 On the INFORM KITSAP page is the Eggs & Issues from 1 October at the Cloverleaf Tavern in Bremerton.
20 September 2024 I am posting my take on the District 6 Representative candidates Eggs & Issues event held by the Greater Kitsap Chamber of Commerce a few days ago. The full post is on the Inform Kitsap page.
26 July 2024
I have 3 pages, Home, Inform Kitsap and Contact. They should be at the top of your screen unless you are on a phone them they maybe a side button access to those 3 pages. The vast majority of my posts will be on the Inform Kitsap page. 13 July 2024
I have started posting again after I figured out how to access my website after Domain.com had a major update in April. I will be posting information on the INFORM KITSAP page and this HOME page will be for special use or me just venting.
22 January 2024
It has been an interesting 2023. I attended a few meetings in 2023 and so far none in 2024. I still try to keep up a little by reading minutes and news articles on what is going on.
I do not look forward to the 2024 election. It looks like T & B will be back as candidates. Funny how one primary election with 700,000 registered voters sets the stage for a candidate who gets less than 60,000 votes to be a parties candidate. Is it a lack of quality of candidates? I think that is a big part of it. There are some in the country who want laws to support their view of the world and the heck with any other opinions. I read where Thailand sent a person to prison for 50 years for criticizing and making fun of their king and his family. Another country has allowed their leader to change the laws to allow him to stay in power much longer than had been originally allowed. Seems like the USA is heading down the same road. We have one candidate who thinks a president can do no wrong and his word is law, even if he does not speak it.
It’s sad when T & B are the best this country has to offer for our highest office. As of 2022 one survey stated that 38.78% voters were D while 29.42% were R with 28.55% Independent and 3.25% were other political parties. What will make a difference is who gets the most people out to vote in 2024. It seems the Independents will make a huge impact on who wins. I think the biggest challenge for both parties is the far left and far right will vote as they think they are right and everyone else is wrong. That will give each candidate a base or foundation of winning votes to rely on. The key will be Independents and of great concern the larger number of all parties who are disgusted with how Congress has acted in the last few years and may not even vote. Again I think any House & Senate that can’s pass a funding bill on time with a balanced budget has failed the voters and taxpayers. Some voters actually remember how incompetent and dysfunctional Congress has been the last decade and I think that will be seen in November. Myself, I distrust T and think he is a snake oil salesman and overall con man. I think B has seen better days and unless he has a top of the line staff and cabinet he will fail badly.
I think the old refrain that the best seldom run for office still applies. They think they can do more as a citizen than as a president. You read the breakdown of registered voters and one thing that has always stood out is no one political party has a majority. Both the D’s & the R’s must rely on the 30% of registered voters who are not affiliated with either the D’s or the R’s. Funny how working for the betterment of the country, the taxpayers, voters and the many who live and work here takes cooperation and partisanship to accomplish anything. Something that has been lacking for decades.
For local items, the Belfair Freight Corridor (Belfair Bypass) looks to be ready to have a shovel in the dirt in 2024. WSDOT should be in the process of acquiring needed property for the project. The Bethel corridor has one roundabout at Bay Street almost done (spring for final paving) and two more should start sometime this year. I have seen a number of vehicles on the property on Sedgwick where Kitsap Transit is putting in a 250 vehicle park & ride so work may start soon on that big project at the same time the culvert work at SR16 and Sedgwick has also started. That area will be very messy for vehicles for a few years. Downtown Port Orchard has a sewer project ongoing and the Port of Bremerton is on track to replace the marina breakwater. It will be interesting at the County as the South Kitsap Commissioner is not running again. Maybe a new County Commissioner can bring some common sense and improvement to South Kitsap. Port Orchard is expanding its population with the building of numerous housing projects, few of which are classified as affordable housing. Port Orchards infrastructure on the other hand is at least 10 years behind their growth. The two big projects in South Kitsap, the community center in downtown Port Orchard and the new racetrack/STEM facility at the Port of Bremerton (City of Bremerton location) are still viable at this point. It will be interesting to see which project brings the most benefit to South Kitsap communities.
25 June 2023
I figured I would catch up a little. I still don’t attend many meetings but I did attend a recent Port of Bremerton meeting. The Port, like many entities, is doing a hybrid version of their public meetings. It was interesting to see most of the old team back at the meetings. The Port has lost a few key people due to retirements and just moving on so there were new faces. It seems they have not had any of the public show up in person for many meetings, most attend online. Not sure of the numbers, but hopefully more than had attended in person meetings in the past, as I was the only public present. At the end is a little rant about a project.
Port of Bremerton
This meeting had two Information Items, a Waste to Energy presentation by the new Kitsap County Commissioner Katie Walters and presentation by Kitsap Transit Executive Director John Clausen. Commissioner Walters was not representing Kitsap County or the Commissioners from what I gathered. Her presentation dealt with a personal project to bring local waste disposal to Kitsap County. Our garbage is now compressed into 30 ton bales and sent I think to Oregon for burial. The issue of how we dispose of waste came to light when last year we lost the compactor system for a few weeks. A single component failure created the issue. A second compactor is being ordered Trash started to build up and you could not go to the dump to dump your trash. Commissioner Walters wants to start a conversation about a local incinerator to basically burn our trash while also creating energy. Basically you burn trash, create heat, boil water and use the steam to run turbines that produce electrical power. Some of the waste product can be recycled, some can be used for other purposes. She used an incinerator in Spokane as the example. In 1991 Spokane invested $180,000,000 in an incinerator and they receive around $5,000,000/year in revenue selling the electricity. It is called a Waste To Energy (WTE) facility and I think the expectation is it could be on the Port of Bremerton property. I found it funny that a company is trying to build a some type of waste oil or trash disposal system near Gorst and is meeting major pushback. I have not seen much about it, but supposedly they are in the permitting phase. I am not sure how the other Kitsap County Commissioners feel about a WTE in Kitsap County, but some people feel there is a need for us to be capable of supplying our own power vice relying on PSE for 100% of our power needs. It is called resiliency.
The next presentation dealt with Kitsap Transit and their future needs. If you have been paying attention the last few years, Kitsap Transit is growing. They have 10 vessels now in their maritime department. They will be starting limited Sunday service later this year. Kitsap Transit (KT) is also looking to expand their physical footprint. One big and very expensive need is a docking space in Seattle. Now KT leases space from King County Ferries and King County ferries have priority over docking space. As the desire for regional fast ferries/passenger only ferries increases Kitsap Transit could be out in left field in competing for docking space in Seattle. That will be a very expense project, very expensive. Another project is a maintenance facility for the existing ferry fleet. If a problem comes up that needs a vessel out of the water, choices are limited as is space to do the work. Some vessels end up in Lake Washington facilities. Kitsap Transit is looking at a few properties, most along the water in Kitsap County. Suldans Boat Works, Railway Marina and two other places were mentioned, Also brought up, to the surprise of the Port of Bremerton Commissioners, was a property that the Port purchased in the last year or so. If you are coming into Port Orchard from Gorst you see a bunch of RV’s parked on some property. That property also includes waterfront and water access and is owned by the Port of Bremerton. This is at least a 10 year project, heck the environmental process will take 4-5 years. No decision on what property or properties that Kitsap Transit will settle on, but it will be interesting again dealing with the City of Port Orchard. Speaking of Port Orchard, Kitsap Transit also talked about their proposed Port Orchard Transit Center. It seems no matter which of the 4 options KT goes with the Port will lose parking, even though Kitsap Transit says they will properly compensate the Port for the loss of parking (35 or 93 spots). There is a big shuffle coming on parking along the waterfront due to a City of Port Orchard sewer project and then you add in a very large transit center, the waterfront will have some major parking issues over the next decade. The Port of Bremerton actually owns 137 parking spots, the gazebo area and the children’s playground along the waterfront. It looks like the Port Orchard Farmers Market will be looking for a new place to go in the near future too, more than likely the proposed community center, which is also likely to take more Port of Bremerton property/parking areas. The users of the downtown boat ramp may want to start paying attention to what is going on, I think you will have limited use of the boat ramp parking in the future. Port Orchard owns the actual boat ramp (even though the Port of Bremerton paid $400,000 for upgrading the ramp) and the Port owns the parking lot and the old yacht lot. Most of this is not happening this year, but expect some movement in 2024 and 2025.
Kitsap Transit is busy, they have at least 12 major projects ongoing. Transit centers, park & rides and new maintenance facilities just on the bus or transit side and then they also have the ferry side. Will Kitsap Transit be looking for more tax money? Probably, they may run another bond beyond the $45,000,000 voter approved bond that built the existing ferry fleet and they will need more funding to fully expand Sunday and weekday services. As the populations increase, they expect many to ride the bus or take a ferry. Will voters support another tax increase for ferry service?
The Port of Bremerton meeting continued with a few other items. The Port is working on the Eastside Development Plan, an environmental assessment team is in place. Almost a quarter of a million has been spent on stormwater control at Hangar 7, flooding issues look to have been resolved. The Port had $275 thousand in roof repairs and replacement completed using a new system that should give a long life to the facilities. If you have a vintage RV, Modern Vintage Trailers has moved to the Business Park. The Totem Pole downtown has been refurbished by the son of the creator, it was a 2 month project.
It is interesting to see how things work in Kitsap County. If you want an interesting and informative book to read, Close to the Flame by Gordon Walgren makes good case for how things sometimes worked in Kitsap County. Look at relationships at the state, county and city levels and at various other agencies. I am by no means saying there is a conspiracy to create something specific in Kitsap County, but when much of your leadership talks on a regular basis with others of influence in the County you know many things are happening behind the scenes. I do not know if a certain Port of Bremerton Commissioner regularly abstains in voting on property sales or acquisition, but as a well known local realtor you hope he is very detailed and open in keeping things separate, whether in a public venue or in private. I know the leadership does miss things at times as the potential use of the Ports property was a surprise, but I think also there were federal rules that needed to be followed in the process. I think the 3 years of minimal or zero in person meetings has left an informational empty spot in many issues in Kitsap.
The Rant
Now on to a rant of mine. Kitsap County Public Works is replacing two culverts near my home. The road in front of my home has been closed for two weeks. You would think traffic would be minimal. You would be wrong. It has seen a reduction in traffic, but not almost zero as expected. We see the occasional semi hauling a few trailers which is much better than being the major east /west corridor in South Kitsap west of SR16. The company hired to do the work does what they can, the County put up signs and detours a few weeks ago. What I noticed was the remarkable sense of entitlement of many drivers. They will literally pull up to a huge Road Closed sign and want to get through the worksite. The 3 or 4 previous Road Closed or Use Detour signs are ignored. They are working on the intersecting road at this point and use the main road as a staging and storage point. Some will see the big signs in the middle of the road 200 yards ahead and turn around. Others, too many others, will drive all the way up to the big signs and argue with the traffic control people. When the project shuts down for the night, typically within 30 minutes someone will stop, get out to their vehicle and push the big Road Closed signs to the side and move on. After that maybe 2 vehicles in 50 will turn around, the vast majority continue on into the work area. The County must have very good liability insurance. In 40 years of living here the traffic has gone from minimal local due to the road being a dead end to a major high speed east to west traffic corridor. A few years ago I saw a traffic count that showed the average speed was around 55mph (in a 45mph zone) with a high speed of over 110mph. In the middle of that mess you drop a construction project that has one lane that looks open except for big Road Closed signs, orange barrels and traffic cones. Obviously to some privileged drivers that just means you need to move all of that and continue on with your trip. Access buses, Amazon, Sheriffs patrol cars, delivery box trucks and many, many pickups with trailers ignore the signs and travel through the work zone when someone moves the big Road Closed signs. It will be interesting when they fully close the road to dig the 20’ deep 60’ wide hole in the road for the open box culvert. I would bet a few will still try to find a way around the work site. They won’t have my sympathy if they get stuck. Neither will the County if they get sued due to a wreck or injuries when the Road Closed signs are removed. I understand how some might think its no big deal as no work is being done. Odds are they are some of the same ones who yell and curse at the workers when they won’t let them pass during the work hours. Admittedly it is difficult to say zero usage during work hours, the workers have let a few vehicles pass when safe. Of course those again are the drivers who ignored project signage and drove down the road with a big pickup and a horse trailer or a trailer full of debris. Heck, even the big Waste Management garbage & recycle trucks pickup and manage to back down the road to turn around. Maybe it is a sign in how our society is fragmenting. Rules don’t apply to everyone. A lack of enforcement and accountability at many levels. I think a survey on those who move the signage and those who blindly go through the work zone after the signs are removed could be interesting. Politics, religion & reasons to ignore the signage could give a good read on our local health and sanity levels. Then again, who would answer truthfully anyway.
11 April 2023
It was interesting this week when I received the Non-Motorized Committee meeting minutes and the Agenda for the next meeting. The meeting on 21 March, 2023 had a few things that were discussed. One Public Comment was about the North Sound to Olympics Trail. Another subject dealt with a discussion on Speed Limit review and information was presented on a review by this committee to evaluate a speed limit reduction on some roads. First of all the use of initialisms or abbreviations throughout the minutes doesn’t really bring forth understanding to the general public. Add to that the huge lack of actual information on the details of what was discussed adds to the fact the general public is left in the dark on many issues. A few initials used were PW & ASE. I think PW is Public Works and ASE is Automated Speed Enforcement. I asked Public Works about where the video for the meeting was, of course assuming if it was a Zoom or MicroSoft video meeting they would tape the meeting. It turns out these particular meetings are not recorded. So as the general public we have no idea what was discussed, we have no idea what was brought up or might have been missed as part of the discussion. This is just one committee meeting from the numerous meetings held each month by elected, their staff, committee and board members and the occasional general public attendee. This has gone on for years.
The last 3 years of Covid responses has left the public so far in the dark that it will take years if not decades to get back to an informed general public, at least those that care about what is going on in Kitsap. I stopped attending meetings about 6 months into the Covid pandemic. I attended a few dozen Zoom or MicroSoft Office meetings initially. I found that it was very difficult to follow the elected via a video conference. As a public observer that is actually on location you see the reactions to information in the attendees faces and body action. You see the interaction between elected officials, the public, the staff and other involved parties. On a video conference you see and hear what the moderator of the conference wants you to see or hear. I have heard some elected, some staff and some members of boards and committees like the video conference method. It restricts the ability of the public to interact and get involved in the process and the moderator has control over the whole process. The mute button is a powerful button to control.
How do we hold the members of the various boards, committees, focus groups and others who meet and decide our fate accountable? How do we gain a path to understand what is driving the actions of our county and city leadership? The hybrid meeting seems to have many supporters, a combination of Zoom & live on site meetings attracts the attention of many. How many committee or board meetings have minutes that read like a shortened version of a Readers Digest article? Does that serve to keep the public informed? Should either a saved video or detailed minutes be required for every meeting? I have seen Port of Bremerton meeting minutes give a sentence on a subject that was discussed for 20 minutes. Unless you go and find the video on Bremerton Kitsap Access Television (BKAT) you would never know the contents of the discussion. Many meetings have set times for public comment and having been to hundreds of meetings I can say that few of the public make the effort, unless the subject directly involves them. Why should we care? It is usually our tax money they are discussing. Should you care about the Sound to Olympics Trail? Will it harm the environment by cutting a trail through environmentally sensitive forests? Should you care about bike lanes? Bremerton spent tax dollars on a designated bike path along Austin Drive. The money spent took two lanes of traffic and two lanes of vehicle parking and turned it into two smaller lanes for vehicle traffic, two lanes for the bike path and a lane or two of parking. I go the Naval Hospital a few times a month and have yet to see a bike on the bike path. Should we be concerned about Automated Speed Enforcement in Kitsap County? Many times I have been told the general public is not fully involved in the beginning of a project or program as there will be a public comment period at a later date. The problem with that is many times when the public comment period starts, the elected and staff have already made up their mind what direction they are going. It is very funny when at that point a citizen brings up an issue that was missed by the elected, the staff and involved committees or boards. Then it is a scramble to regroup and start the process again, usually with a significant delay. The public needs to be part of the process from the beginning. The minutes need to be detailed and not a generalized generalization with unexplained abbreviations throughout the document and it needs to be easily found by the public. Did I say the minutes needed to be detailed?
Growth is happening, whether we want it or not. You can sit back and enjoy the ride and hope for the best or you can get involved, stay informed and make a difference in Kitsap County.
1 November 2022
This is the last of the Eggs & Issues sponsored and run by the Greater Kitsap Chamber of Commerce for this election. In this event we had Kitsap County Sheriff candidates John Gese (D) and Rick Kuss (R) along with the candidates for the Nonpartisan Kitsap County District Court Judge Department #3, Stan Glisson and Shane Seaman.
I will include all of the questions I submitted at the end of this post for both positions. I did that on my previous entry for the 4 previous Eggs & Issues events and I hope you used some of my questions to ask the candidates questions, or better yet ask some hard questions you have so you become a better informed voter. Vote on 8 November.
It was interesting at this particular debate the candidates were spread out more than at previous debates. I think the 4 candidates took up as many tables as had the 6 candidate debate a week ago. I will talk a little about that at the end. This time Bremerton Kitsap Access Television (BKAT) was out in full force with multiple cameras and lights to record the debate. You hopefully will find the video on the BKAT and Greater Chamber of Commerce websites soon. I do not give you a detailed response but cover basically what I hear and see and I do not cover the Introduction and Closing remarks which can be very informative. Hint. Hint.
The first question for the Judge candidates dealt with how they would support economic development. Again the sound wasn’t the best and I may have missed a few words but it seemed the question dealt with how the judges interacted with the public. Seaman said he was a Chamber member and judges worked on restitution and rehabilitation while Glisson stated people wanted safe a county and he worked on community partnerships and met with the community. Next up was why was there a need to remain apolitical. Seaman said a judge needed approval from both sides and a court needed to be apolitical while Glisson said this is a nonpartisan position and he enjoys working with everyone. When asked about the perception in the community of a revolving door for criminals Seaman said at times it is mandated by the state supreme court but that judges hold people accountable and Glisson said the perception is not really reality and that the media highlights the issues so some cases are more noticeable. Another question dealt with how they will help business’s on crime issues. Seaman said judges need to look at an offenders history to help make decisions. Glisson said the court works with law enforcement and things should be improving. When asked what was their biggest challenge Glisson said they needed more time to work on cases and Seaman said the removal of implicit bias was needed and to not make snap judgements. When asked about supporting the existing process requiring someone to surrender their firearms, both supported the process. Glisson said it was a complicated process while Seaman said it could be better and they were basically waiting on a higher court to give better direction. When asked about supporting the Behavioral Health Therapeutic Court system as it is now, both candidates said it they supported it but it needed more resources. This is where I wish another question I had submitted would have been asked. That was dealing with the 0.01% sales tax increase for Mental Health, Chemical Dependency and Therapeutic Court that was originally intended as a temporary funding source for programs until they gained their feet and found other revenue. Instead the court system has fed off of that program since the beginning even though it was advertised and touted as a temporary resource. Now both candidates want more resources for the court programs. Maybe the courts need to start looking for their own stable funding and let the sales tax revenue be used as the incubator for potentially successful programs as intended. The standard question of what you would do with a magic wand came up of course. Glisson would get more funding and staffing in the court programs and Seaman wanted to be a peacemaker and to have more court facilities in North Kitsap as everything was in South Kitsap. When asked about what the Sheriffs Department could do better to help the District Court in its day to day operations Glisson said they work closely now and the courts needed good and the sheriffs and prosecutors. Seaman said they needed partnerships and communications with correct evidence and reports. I think the question threw off both candidates a little.
Judges rarely challenge each other for a position that is elected. In this case the previous judge is retiring and there seems to be interest in this particular race. I would say to look at he Voters Pamphlet and the write up on each candidate and view the BKAT video. We seldom see much action regarding the judges as most people don’t deal with them on a regular basis. We pay more attention when something happens and we get involved in the judicial system, whether as a juror or defendant or accused. It is important to make an informed decision as many times the positions have no challenger when election time rolls around and this is one of the few times we can make a difference in the court system.
Next up will be the Kitsap County Sheriffs Office candidates. My write up is not in order that the questions were asked, I do jump around a little. When asked about body cameras and would they be required for Deputies and Corrections Officers both candidates said yes, Gese said they have been working on this and expect to have it running in the middle of 2023 while Kuss said it needed to happen sooner than later. Some of you may know me and my past history of attending hundreds of meetings and reporting on those in this website over the years. Kuss brought up the issue that he had mentioned the use of body cameras and afterwards Gese came up with his program for implementation of body cameras. From the introductions I learned that Kuss retired from the US Navy about six months ago and I know from meetings I attended the subject of body cameras came up probably at least 3-4 years ago and work was being done on identifying what system to use, the costs and a plan to get the unions approval for deputies & correction officers. When asked about the potential for Silverdale to incorporate and the effect on the Sheriffs Office budget Kuss said in talking to people in Silverdale he thinks they want their own police force as they feel the Sheriffs Office is not supporting them enough. Gese said the impact on the funding due to the loss of tax revenues would be a big impact on the Sheriff’s Office and that they do support Silverdales needs now. When asked on how to recruit more officers, Kuss wanted to partner with the military while Gese said they already partner with the military, Olympic College, Work Force, the high schools and use social media to connect to potential candidates.
When asked if the Sheriffs Office meets state and federal standards, Kuss said the budget needs to be correct for the number of officers needed and Gese said Kitsap was in the bottom 10 and manpower resources needed additional funding. When asked if they were or had ever been a member of the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association (CSPOA) Gese said no and he would never join or belong to such an organization. Kuss on the other hand said yes, that he had joined the CSPOA after retiring from the Navy six months ago. He went on to say he also joined other organizations to learn about them. I understand Kuss's idea to a point, but I also can do research online to see what an organization stands for and what actions they have taken in the past. I do not need to spend $25 to join an organization to find out I do not support their point of view, I would do the major research the first before writing the check. Also with Kuss as a retired Naval Officer I would have thought the idea to actually join multiple suspect organizations would not be a priority, especially if you were planning to run for a political position.
When asked about how they would help economic development, Kuss said crime issues don’t attract business and Gese said working with the Chambers of Commerce to find solutions on crime issues and when asked about how they would help business’s Kuss wanted coordination across agencies and Gese do we work to target auto thefts. This question came from one of the Chamber members who very recently had his place of business vandalized having previously had his business suffer a loss of a vehicle. When asked the magic wand question, Gese said he would solve social issues while Kuss wanted crisis intervention teams. Both candidates said when asked about remaining politically neutral that the Sheriff should be nonpartisan with Gese adding that part of the job is to work with others. When asked what qualifies you to be Sheriff, Gese said he had brought up his qualification in the Introduction and the actual requirement in the RCW was be 18 and a citizen, but that qualifications/training are needed. Kuss said he had a Masters in Criminal Justice and 24 years of USN leadership and that the Sheriff was the Chief Executive Office and conservator of the peace in the County. Gese challenged Kuss and said it is important to be a police officer and be qualified and experienced while Kuss responded that the Sheriff is not the police.
I did some research. The revised Code of Washington (RCW) 36.28.010 does lay out what the general duties of the Sheriff are in terms that were originally in a Sessions Law 1891 document. In my research I found RCW 43.101.200 that basically says “ All law enforcement personnel, except volunteers, and reserve officers whether paid or unpaid, initially employed on or after January 1, 1978, shall engage in basic law enforcement training which complies with standards adopted by the commission pursuant to RCW 43.101.080.” Also RCW 36.28.025 says “A person who files a declaration of candidacy for the office of sheriff after September 1, 1979, shall have, within twelve months of assuming office, a certificate of completion of a basic law enforcement training program which complies with standards adopted by the criminal justice training commission pursuant to RCW 43.101.080 and * 43.101.160.” So when I looked again at RCW 36.28.010 it says:
“The sheriff is the chief executive officer and conservator of the peace of the county. In the execution of his or her office, he or she and his or her deputies: (1) Shall arrest and commit to prison all persons who break the peace, or attempt to break it, and all persons guilty of public offenses; (2) Shall defend the county against those who, by riot or otherwise, endanger the public peace or safety; (3) Shall execute the process and orders of the courts of justice or judicial officers, when delivered for that purpose, according to law; (4) Shall execute all warrants delivered for that purpose by other public officers, according to the provisions of particular statutes; (5) Shall attend the sessions of the courts of record held within the county, and obey their lawful orders or directions; (6) Shall keep and preserve the peace in their respective counties, and quiet and suppress all affrays, riots, unlawful assemblies and insurrections, for which purpose, and for the service of process in civil or criminal cases, and in apprehending or securing any person for felony or breach of the peace, they may call to their aid such persons, or power of their county as they may deem necessary.”
To me that is saying the Sheriff is more than an administrative figure, the Sheriff needs the same training as any police officer capable and certified to arrest a subject. Unless of course Kuss plans on using the citizens arrest statutes. To define Conservator: a guardian or protector.
Then the question on I1639 came up which dealt with not enforcing the gun laws per that initiative. I think it is mostly the need for expanded background checks for semi-automatic weapons that some found an issue. Gese said we needed to come up with solutions to the gun issues and to find where the guns are coming from while Kuss asked if Gese would support the letter signed by other Sheriffs that they would not enforce some provisions of I1639 and Kuss said that deputies had to have their weapons locked up when at home. This I think was regarding a deputies gun ending up at a school which is a whole story on its own.
This is just a guess on my part. I get the feeling that Kuss wants to change how the Sheriffs Office operates, specifically the Sheriff. I think Kuss sees the Sheriff position as purely administrative in nature, not an active law enforcement officer. I see Kuss as an intelligent individual that has a great education and very little experience, if any, as a police officer or deputy sheriff. He touts his 24 years of leadership in the US Navy as a big positive. I was in the Navy for 24 years too and it took probably 10 years of that before I really learned about leadership. I know and have known people who are very intelligent and have extensive educational training but if you gave them a screwdriver they would break something and lose the screwdriver. I was a Nuclear Power School graduate too and when we came to the fleet we were immediately tagged as book smart but with little practical working knowledge. I also spent over a year as a Kitsap County Reserve Deputy Sheriff, attending a modified training course being certified and riding with full time Deputies plus patrolling with another Reserve Officer. It was eye opening and very educational. It could be Kuss could eventually be a good County Sheriff or Police Chief, but he needs some experience and training. Those Deputies on the streets want to know their boss knows what it is like to do a felony stop on a vehicle at 3AM or go through the process of booking a suspect or what it takes to keep up with the reports and paperwork or to be called to the court system to testify. It is more than book learning, it is getting your adrenaline up and then down multiple times a day. Experience and training count and are a big part of the job, any job.
One thing none of the candidates delved into was how to fund all the increases in funding they needed to meet their resource demands now and in the future. I think we will hear more of that next year. I mentioned that the tables were set up similar to that for 6 people so there was a lot of room between candidates. This was done due to an earlier issue at a previous debate where an actual fight supposedly started between supporters of the Sheriff’s candidates. It was also telling that Kuss basically went on the attack during his closing remarks vice actually talking about the issues or his plans. I usually tell people to do their due justice, research the candidates and then vote. This is one of the few times I will actually say I support one particular candidate, and that is John Gese. Kuss has potential and he needs to maybe become a Reserve Deputy or volunteer with the local police and get some practical experience under his belt and plan for the future, his time is not now.
Here are the questions I submitted for this last Eggs & Issues. I had fun and it was great to hear all of the candidates give their responses over the five Eggs & Issues events. Some basically ad libbed the Opening and Closing while others had prepared statements. Some were very polished speakers while others at times had a look that they wanted to be somewhere else. I can’t emphasize enough to do the research and become an informed voter and then vote on 8 November. Have a great week.
Kitsap County District Court Judge Department #3
1. What can be improved on the District Court website to better serve the public? Be specific as to improvements you would advocate for.
2. Do you support the existing process requiring someone to surrender their firearms? Explain why or why not and any improvements or changes you would like to see accomplished by Olympia.
3. Do you support the Behavioral Health Therapeutic Court system as it is now? What changes would you advocate for?
4. With a magic wand what changes or improvements would you accomplish to the District Court system? Explain in detail.
5. The 0.1% sales tax increase for Mental Health, Chemical Dependency and Therapeutic Court was originally meant to be a temporary funding source for programs until they gain their feet and find other permanent funding. Should the District Court continue receiving funding every year as it has since the beginning or should it be required to find other permanent funding? Explain your response.
6. Do you think the District Court Behavioral Health Therapeutic Court program seemingly permanent funding source from the sales tax increase limited the ability for other entities to create and startup other forms of care needed in the community? Explain your response.
7. What can the Sheriff’s Office do better to help the District Court in its day to day functioning? Explain your response.
8. What addition support is needed from Olympia to better support the function of the District Court system and its programs? Explain your response.
9. What additional support is needed from the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners to better support the function of the District Court system and its programs? Explain your response.
10. What would say to the public about the perception of a revolving door for criminals? What needs to be done better to protect the public and gain their trust?
11. The District Court website has a link for “Quash My Warrant”. Do you think this link is serving the public as expected? Have you accessed this link?
Kitsap County Sheriff
1. What is the highest priority repair/maintenance project needed at the Kitsap County Jail facilities? Why is it a priority and how will you solve the issue?
2. What is the biggest challenge for the Sheriff’s Office? Why is it a challenge?
3. What are the top two things needed to improve the Corrections Officers working conditions at the Kitsap County Jail? Be specific and detailed.
4. What are the top two things needed to improve the working conditions for the Deputy Sheriffs? Be specific and detailed.
5. What are the top two things needed to improve the conditions of the Kitsap County Jail for the inmates? Be specific and detailed.
6. What could or should the Prosecutors Office do to help the Sheriffs Office? What is needed and why is it needed?
7. Will the Sheriffs Office move towards Electrical Vehicles for the Deputies? Be detailed in your response.
8. Will body cameras be required for Deputies and/or Corrections Officers? Explain your response.
9. Many residents see criminals in a revolving door judicial system. How can you as Sheriff mitigate or eliminate this seemingly revolving door system?
10. When Silverdale and possibly Kingston are incorporated, how will the Sheriffs Office manage the loss of facilities and revenue?
11. What is the biggest challenge for the Kitsap County Jail? Be specific.
12. Is the existing repair/maintenance schedule for the Kitsap County Jail and the Sheriff’s Office facilities sufficient? What specifically needs improvement to ensure future working conditions are safe?
13. As Sheriff would you present a Law & Order sales or property tax increase on the ballot to support and expand/improve just the Kitsap County Jail Facilities?
14. As Sheriff would you present/support a Law & Order sales or property tax increase on the ballot to support & improve the Kitsap County Sheriffs Department, including jail facilities, administration facilities, Deputy facilities & remote stations? Explain your choice in detail.
15. Should a Law & Order sales or property tax increase on the ballot include funding for the Prosecutors Office or should it be a separate issue? Why or why not?
16. If you are elected Sheriff, what in 4 years will be your biggest success in office? Explain your answer in detail.
17. Does the Sheriffs Department meet state & federal standards for the number of active deputies serving the population of Kitsap County in the unincorporated county? If not what will you do to improve those statistics?
18. Should the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners visit the Sheriffs Departmental facilities more often, including the jail and remote stations? Explain your response.
19. Do you believe that county sheriff is the ultimate authority in the county? Explain your response.
20. Are you or have you ever been a member of the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association (CSPOA)? Be detailed in your response.
21. Would you support the Kitsap County Jail having an in-house medical and mental health team vice contracting with outside agencies? Explain your response.
22. What would you propose to better meet the medical and mental health needs of the Kitsap County Jail inmates? Be detailed in your response.
23. What do you think Kitsap County Sheriffs Office needs to do to attract and retain Corrections Officers and Deputy Sheriffs? Explain your response.
24. Have you completed the Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA) course of instruction for Washington State? If not, why not?
25. If you have not completed the Basic Law Enforcement Academy, how will your responsibilities as a newly elected Sheriff be handled until that requirement is met within the stated 12 month time period (RCW36.28.010) after taking office?
26. As the Chief Executive Officer of Kitsap County what do you see as your biggest challenge in the next 4 years?
25 October 2022
Tuesdays Eggs & Issues was the last for those in Olympia. This was for the 23rd, 26th & 35th District Representatives Position 2. Candidates were 23rd District - Drew Hansen (D) & Paige Jarquin (R), 26th District- Michelle Caldier (R) & Matt Macklin (D) and 35th District- Travis Couture (R) & Sandy Kaiser (D). Next week as a reminder is District Court Judge Department 3 and the Sheriffs candidates.
This time it was a full house and all 6 candidates showed up. I get there early as I try to miss as much of the Gorst slowdown as possible so I usually get to see everyone arrive. It is interesting to see the candidates and how they handle the prior to the debate time frame. Couture and Jarquin were early and Jarquin did interact with some of those present. Couture interacted with the Chamber members and then sat down until near the debate time and more people arrived. It is interesting to see the incumbents, Hansen and Caldier and how they interact with the people present. Hansen came in maybe 20 minutes before the debate while Caldier was one of the last. I did find it interesting that Kaiser wanted breakfast as soon as possible so the Chamber member had the Cloverleaf staff take her order first and she did eat while at the front table during the debate. There was much more interaction with the public at the end of the event and there was quite the collection of candidate advertising at the table near the door. I remember past Eggs & Issues where candidates actually brought in signs for people to put in their yard or business.
If you go to Bremerton Kitsap Access Television (BKAT) or the Greater Kitsap Chamber of Commerce websites you may or may not find the videos. Unlike the past when the Bremerton Chamber of Commerce actually took the video and posted on their website, BKAT (or someone who works there) & the Chamber still have some communications and sharing issues. I think BKAT wants videos they take to be shown on their system before the general public gets to seen them on demand. I think someone seems to assume that everyone has access to the cable channels that BKAT uses. Maybe internet access has something to do with that in Kitsap County and it would be interesting to see how many residents actually use internet to access BKAT videos versus those who watch cable channels that are not universally available in Kitsap County.
There was time for only 6 questions, 6 people with 3 minute opening, 1 minute responses and a 2 minute closing, the time adds up fast. Again I am highlighting what stood out to me, I am not giving verbatim responses. You want that, look at the video.
A statement with a question from the public was this person had seen a homeless person not far from the Cloverleaf and wanted to hear what the candidates will do about homelessness. Couture said we needed to stop being soft and clean up the camps. We needed to have services and to connect people with services along with accountability. Kaiser said a comprehensive approach was needed along with accountability and all around services. Hansen said we needed to build more support housing and treatment while Jarquin said the budget needed to be increased for homeless issues and it should be housing first plus services. Caldier said Olympia had put $1,000,000,000 into homeless issues and most of it went to King County/Seattle to buy buildings/hotels. Yes, that is one billion taxpayer dollars. Macklin said we needed private/public partnerships and visible outcomes for accountability. I like to hear candidates talk about accountability but at the same time no-one talked about how to pay for all the cleanup, support housing, services and treatment that would be needed.
Healthcare and what the candidates thought about the lack of a Naval Hospital Bremertons lack of an emergency room and what were their plans to support healthcare. Kaiser said it needs a big fix and federal partners. Hansen said we need more options to get another hospital in Kitsap County while Jarquin said we need more choices and that Naval Hospital Bremerton was not functional. As a side note, I use Naval Hospital Bremerton as our primary care provider and yes, they have reduced their role in the active and retired community but I would not consider them “not functional”. Caldier said we need competition in Kitsap County as the only hospital and most of the doctors clinics and services were all under the same umbrella. Macklin said a Public Health District is needed for a smaller hospital. Couture said there needs to be more competition and the health insurance system needs improved.
The previous 2 questions were from the public, the next four are ones I had submitted.
In the next two year budget cycle what would be your #1 Transportation Budget project for Kitsap County? Caldier said the transportation budget should not be paying for installing fish friendly culverts, that should be in the normal operating budget and Macklin agreed, he did add less talk, more action in Gorst. Couture said less studies and more work while Kaiser said build roads and the ferry system. Hansen said the ferries and their staffing is a top issue. Jarquin said studies were needed for planning and the vaccination requirements may have something to do with staffing issues. Of course the moderators favorite question dealt with the magic wand and I think some of the candidates did their homework. Hansen wanted to pass bill to protect healthcare from potential issues with Idahos rules. Jarquin wanted to reduce gas taxes and Caldier wanted to enforce drug issues. Macklin wanted an increase in trade schools to attract more students. Couture wanted more funding for law enforcement and staffing while Kaiser wanted a more comprehensive approach to homelessness.
A question asked was what they saw as the biggest change needed in the Growth Management Act (GMA) to support more entry level housing. Macklin said GMA does not really capture local community zoning. Couture said GMA is a top down approach, urban vs rural while Kaiser said it needs to be easier to build in town. Hansen said we should build more types of housing in high density areas at market rates. Jarquin said something about GMA partnering with the Climate Act and more mixed use was needed. Caldier had issues with the GMA and how annexations were done when cities basically annexed the bigger tax base areas and left islands of lower tax base and higher infrastructure needs to the counties.
Another question I submitted and was asked was: Do you support the Climate Commitment Act, Senate Bill 5126, passed in 2021 by Olympia and its potential to increase the cost of fuels by almost $0.50/gallon in the next 5 years. Jarquin said it was putting the cart before the horse and did not support it. Caldier did not support it and said it won’t fix the issues. Macklin said yes & No, the idea is good, the plan is bad. Couture said No and there are too many sewage leaks and it is a bad plan. Kaiser said climate change is real and supports the idea but doesn’t like the gas tax. Hansen actually voted for the bill and fully supports it.
That was it, 6 questions. Yes, I did submit 25 questions. So as an added bonus this time I will include all the question I have for the previous Eggs & Issues in this update. The next Eggs & Issues is Tuesday, November 1, again at the Cloverleaf at 8AM. This time it is District Court Judge Department 3 and the Kitsap County Sheriffs Office. I will include those questions when I give you the results of that Eggs & Issues. Ask questions and hold the candidates accountable, especially if they win the election, accountability should be a standard at all levels of public involvement.
Here are the Questions I have submitted for the Eggs & Issues Debates so far. With less than two weeks before the election, feel free to use my questions if you have a chance to meet the candidates.
Senators & Representatives Questions
1. What do you see as the priority in a “fix” for the SR16/SR3 congestion issues? How will this be accomplished and funded?
2. In the next 2 year budget cycle in Olympia, what would be your #1 Capital Budget project to fund for Kitsap County? Why is it a priority?
3. Do you support a mandatory Road Usage Charge (pay by mile)? Why or why not?
4. In the next 2 year budget cycle for Olympia, what would be your #1 Transportation Budget project to fund for Kitsap County? Why is it a priority?
5. How should a potential regional fast ferry system be funded? Be specific.
6. Should sales taxes on construction materials for new school construction be eliminated? Why or why not?
7. What makes you more qualified to serve the residents of Kitsap County than your opponent? Be specific.
8. Do you support the use of so called Ghost Bills while in session? Why or why not?
9. What makes Kitsap County different from the other areas you may also represent (Mason, Thurston or Pierce Counties) and how will you address the issues specific to Kitsap County?
10. How will you address the issue of seniors on fixed incomes having problems paying the increases in property taxes? What is your specific solution to give seniors a break on property taxes?
11. Do you think the Ruckelshaus Center study will result in any significant changes to the Growth Management Act in the next Legislative session? Why or why not?
12. Have you used the Kitsap Transit Passenger Only Fast Ferry? Do you think a regional fast ferry system is a potential solution to highway congestion in Kitsap County?
13. What would you propose as solutions for the WSDOT Ferry system improvements? Be specific as too funding.
14. What will you do about Olympia not fully funding Indigent Legal Services requiring the Counties taxpayers to pick up the additional costs? Be specific.
15. With a magic wand, what one piece of legislation would you like to magically get signed by the Governor during the next Legislative Session? Explain your choice in detail.
16. What, if any, new tax (or other revenue) would you support and what should that new source of funding accomplish?
17. What do you see as the biggest change needed in the Growth Management Act (GMA) to better support entry level affordable housing? Why?
18. The 3 Legislative Districts are made up of more than just Kitsap County, what common issues does Kitsap County have with the other areas you may represent? Be specific as too commonalities and how you will address common solutions.
19. Should Counties and Cities be given additional taxing authority or should Olympia be the leader in fiscal responsibility?
20. Will you support bills that have unfunded mandates for other taxing districts like schools, fire & rescue, and others that have costs to meet the requirements of your bills and laws? How will you prevent unfunded mandates? Be specific.
21. How will you represent the taxpayers and voters in Kitsap County’s Legislative Districts in Olympia better than your opponent? Be specific.
22. Do you support the Climate Commitment Act, Senate Bill 5126 passed in 2021 by Olympia and its potential to increase the cost of fuels by almost $0.50/gallon in the next 5 years? Explain your response.
23. Do you support a new airport, similar to SeaTac, in the rural areas of your District? Explain your response for or against.
24. With your knowledge of your Legislative District what existing airport in your district could/should be improved to better serve freight or passenger airline services? Explain your response.
25. Regarding the Road Map to Washingtons Future Executive Summary, what Key Reform (of the 28 listed) would be your priority in the next 4 years to move Olympia to improve the Growth Management Act? Be specific as to how that Key Reform would help Kitsap County.
Kitsap County Commissioner District 3 Questions
1. What is your #1 priority for Kitsap County in the next 4 years if you win the election? Be specific.
2. What is your #1 priority in your district? What makes that a priority and how will you follow through with solutions in the next 4 years?
3. Do you support Tiny Home projects on public property? Why or why not?
4. How will you encourage economic development in Kitsap County and improve the infrastructure to support that potential growth? Be specific.
5. Do you support a significant increase in impact fees to fund infrastructure needs in Kitsap County? Explain your response.
6. What should the priority be, increase revenues via new or higher taxes & fees or reduce services to meet existing and future revenue sources? Be specific in your response.
7. What funding tool does Kitsap County need from Olympia to better manage growth? Be specific as to what tool is needed and how it will help.
8. Within your Commissioner District, what percentage of residents/taxpayers live in unincorporated Kitsap County (not within city limits)? How will you ensure their voices are heard when it comes to growth and development in Kitsap County? Be specific in your response.
9. Do you support an increase in Kitsap County Roads property taxes to support roadway infrastructure needs in unincorporated Kitsap County? Explain your response.
10. Kitsap County Commissioners sit on a number of boards and committees. What specific board or committee do you look forward to being a part of? Explain why that particular board or committee attracts your interest.
11. Regarding the Road Map to Washingtons Future Executive Summary, what Key Reform (of the 28 listed) would be your priority in the next 4 years to move Olympia to improve the Growth Management Act? Be specific as to how that Key Reform would help Kitsap County.
12. What makes you a better County Commissioner candidate than your opponent? Be specific and detailed in your response.
13. How will you encourage the construction of affordable housing in unincorporated Kitsap County? Be specific as to how this is accomplished.
14. How should Kitsap Transit fund Sunday bus service? Should there be a tax increase or a cut in other services to pay for Sunday service?
15. If Kitsap Transit funds Sunday bus service should it include the ACCESS service and all of the passenger only ferry services? How will it be funded?
16. What is the biggest need in the Sheriff’s Office and how do you intend to help meet that need?
17. What is the biggest need in the Department of Community Development and how do you intend to help meet that need?
18. What do you see as the priority in a “fix” for the SR16/SR3 congestion issues? How will this be accomplished and funded?
19. How should a potential regional fast ferry system be funded? Be specific.
20. What do you see as the biggest change needed in the Growth Management Act (GMA) to better support entry level affordable housing in Kitsap County? Why?
21. What do yo see as the #1 priority project for Kitsap County that should be submitted to the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) for federal funding? Why is it a priority?
22. How will Silverdale and Kingston incorporating affect Kitsap Counties funding model? How will you plan for that eventuality?
23. The Board of County Commissioners have reduced representation of County Commissioners from 3 to 1 or 2 County Commissioners on a number of Boards/Committees? Do you support these changes and do you feel the unincorporated residents and taxpayers are properly and effectively represented? Please explain your response.
24. What is the biggest need at the Kitsap County Jail? How will you meet that need?
25. If you had a magic wand and could accomplish anything, what one thing would you like to accomplish in the next 4 years for Kitsap County?
Kitsap County Auditor Questions
1. Do you support the existing vote by mail system? Explain your answer in detail.
2. What is your #1 priority for the Auditors Office over the next four years? Why is it a priority?
3. Should any changes be made in the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) that would better show the fiscal health of KItsap County? Explain in detail.
4. What improvements would you pursue to better support the process of document recording in the Auditors Office? Explain your answer.
5. What is needed in the Auditors Office to better support the Licensing Office services? Explain in detail.
6. What do think needs to be accomplished to better support the Online Question & Service Request process? Explain in detail.
7. Do you think there is a better way to conduct the election process? Explain in detail your response.
8. Do you have confidence in the accuracy and reliability of the voting process in Kitsap County? Explain in detail.
9. If you had a magic wand and could accomplish anything, what would you accomplish in the Auditors Office in the next 4 years? Explain in detail.
10. What improvements to the Auditors website do you need to better serve the public? Explain in detail.
18 October 2022
Tuesday was the 3rd of 5 Eggs & Issues hosted by the Greater Kitsap Chamber of Commerce at the Cloverleaf, in Bremerton, and has been used for a number of decades. It was a very busy event, I think well over 60 people showed up to listen to the candidates for Auditor and Kitsap County Commissioner District 3 answer questions from the audience. I know a few people who will make decisions on who to vote for based on this event. It is good to see how the candidates actually respond to the questions. Are they articulate? Do they actually answer the question or do they skip all over the place with information that does not relate to the subject matter? I look at facial expressions as much as possible to see how the candidates react to not only the questions, but their opponents responses. You miss much of that during a Zoom meeting. I like that the Chamber has gone back to in-person meetings. I think it gives the public a better feel for the candidates. The moderator alternated between asking the Auditor candidates and the Commissioner candidates questions, and yes, quite a few of mine were asked.
As for the event, it was very interesting. First is the Auditors position. Paul Andrews (D) is the incumbent and Mike Simpson (R) is his opponent. It was obvious from the introductions that the relationship between the two candidates was strained. The question of whether there is a better way to run elections was very telling. Simpson basically said there should be no or limited voting by mail and we need to have many more polling places for people to go vote. Andrews said more people need to vote and as for more polling places the staffing issue would become be difficult. When asked whether they have confidence in the accuracy and reliability of the voting process in Kitsap County, Andrews said yes, and they have what I thought I heard was 80,000 changes to the voter data base every year. Simpson said the data base is inaccurate and needs more work. Another question dealt with the magic wand, what would you accomplish in the next four years if you had one? Andrews said he would have no lies in the election while Simpson said the records requests had too many redacted documents and not the needed transparency. It was interesting that both candidates think the #1 priority for the Auditors Office was to restore trust or integrity. I have to wonder if that need to restore trust or integrity is based on actual issues in the past or present or more a perception of a problem in the past or now that doesn’t really exist. Another question dealt with improvements in the process of document recording. Simpson wanted more tech but didn’t really say what tech he wanted. Andrews’s said they are looking at new process’s and now have almost instant document recording. What I gathered from this was Simpson does not trust the voting, records requests or the PCO (Precinct Committee Officer) system in the Auditors Office, does not support vote by mail, wants everyone to go to a polling place and vote in-person and wants less information redacted in record documents. Andrews on the other hand seems to think there is room for improvements but overall the voting, records and PCO system is working well. When asked about fraud in Kitsap County elections Andrews said No while Simpson said maybe and yes later on, because people lie and you need to hold people accountable.
Now for the Kitsap County Commissioners candidates, we have Josh Hinman (R) and Katie Walters (D). It was very interesting to hear both candidates talk about their experience at non-profits. I always think that when someone has non-profit experience they also have experience in getting funds from government agencies, like the County, so it makes me wonder of their ability to be neutral during budget requests from non-profits. Walters brought up her job as Executive Director of Leadership Kitsap a number of times and I thought I heard her say all the candidates had attended the training. I am very familiar with it, as I was in Class 2004 if I recall correctly. It is a good program, but should not be the focus when it comes to the issues unless you really talk to the public on what it does for citizens When asked about their #1 priority for Kitsap County, Hinman wanted to focus on housing affordability while Walters wanted more work force development and to invest in people. Neither supported a significant impact fee increase to pay for infrastructure needs, but neither did they come up with other funding options. I ask some questions just to get an idea on how invested the candidate is in finding out what the job entails (I submitted 25 questions). So one question asked was what board or committee do they look forward to being a part of and why. Walters said Transportation and Hinman said mental health & addiction. Maybe I am a little picky, but when it comes to transportation I would think the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) or the Kitsap Regional Coordinating Council (KRCC) would be a better choice. As for mental health and addiction, maybe the Kitsap Public Health District would be a better choice. I would say neither candidate looked at the Kitsap County County website for the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners because under their Helpful Links is Commissioners Boards and Councils. I ran for County Commissioner years ago and was amazed at the number of meetings the Commissioners were involved in, and I actually attended many, many of those meetings over a 4 or 5 year period. I am not sure either candidate knows to expect this unless the incumbents have talked to them about what to expect. When asked about the biggest need in the Sheriff’s Office, Hinman said a camera system and more Correction Officers and maybe a public safety levy. Walters said work source and the Olympic College program for police to help with staffing. Believe it or not, when asked about the #1 priority for Kitsap County to be submitted to the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) for federal funding both said a fix for Gorst. Hinman did add a Gorst bypass needed to be discussed as a Gorst fix would take decades. The PSRC is the local entity that distributes many, many millions in federal dollars for transportation projects. The PSRC is made up of 4 counties, Kitsap, Pierce, King and Snohomish. Kitsap is the very small entity on the council.
When asked about Silverdale & Kingston incorporating and becoming cities, did they support that and it seems Walters did not support that and Hinman was ok if voters decided to incorporate. Hinman said Silverdale is 80%of the tax revenue for the County but also the biggest expense so it would probably even out. It is interesting in that the PSRC uses Urban Growth Areas (UGA) to help divide up the federal funds, that is one reason Silverdale gets the millions it has over the last decade or so for transportation projects while the rural areas get much less support for the bigger projects. Even the PSRC says the goal for the bigger UGA’s is to incorporate and that the smaller UGA’s that relate to a specific city should be annexed into the city. The Growth Management Act (GMA) basically directs Counties to push growth to UGA’s and improve the infrastructure needed to support that growth. It even says the permitting and developing of the cities UGA’s should match as close as possible between the city and the county. It will be interesting to ask the newly elected Commissioner of District 3 in a year or so what they think about the subject again at budget time. When asked about health care in Kitsap County, Walters said hospital staffing is an issue and Hinman said staffing is a short term crisis and healthcare should be a priority, maybe an option is a public hospital but Walters said we should not have a new tax for a hospital.
Overall I think there were 12 questions asked of the Commissioner candidates and 9 for the Auditor candidates. I mentioned watching the faces of the candidates and I have to say I saw a few deer in the headlight looks from Walters. Both Walters & Hinman do seem to promote their non-profit experience significantly and that may be a key element for some voters. Walters also seems to push the work force development aspect, which if I remember correctly was also a key element of the District 2 Commissioner in the past. When it comes to the Auditor, it seems Simpson has a one track mind in that the incumbent made an error in an election Simpson was involved in. I don't see that as a big positive element in a candidates campaign. Andrews explained some issues, like the PCO accuracy, which is the responsibility of the particular party to keep the Auditors Office informed of changes to the PCO list.
This is not all of the questions asked, so I would say look at the video if you can. Contact or look at the websites of Bremerton Kitsap Access Television (BKAT) and the Greater Kitsap Chamber of Commerce to see where and when you can view the videos. I know of at least two people besides myself that made decisions on who to vote for based on this event. Only one candidate had any idea of what they were getting into and that was the incumbent Auditor, Andrews. Simpson seemed to be focused on one or two issues and I think his wanting more people going someplace to vote in person is a step backwards. I will use me as an example, I have zero cartilage in my knees and standing and walking is difficult at times so waiting in a line for hours to vote is a no go for me. Hinman is a Republican while Walters is a Democrat and they are replacing a Republican. I have attended many, many meetings of the Board of County Commissioners over the years and I have great respect for the outgoing Commissioner Ed Wolfe and how he worked with the two Democrats. I hope the next Commissioner does the same.
The next Eggs & Issues is on 25 October and is the 23rd, 26th and 35th District Representatives Position 2 and on 1 November it is District Court Judge Department 3 and the Kitsap County Sheriff candidates.
Ballots are coming out this week, make sure you are an informed voter and please vote, remember there are two more Eggs & Issues events so you still have a week to vote before the election after the last Eggs & Issues.
11 October 2022
The latest Eggs & Issues was very interesting. This was the 23rd, 26th and 35th District Position 1candidates. The only no show was Daniel Griffey (R) from the 35th Legislative District. No reason was given for the absence, his chair just sat empty for the duration of the event.
Those that showed up included 23rd District Janell Hulst (R) and Tara Simmions (D), 26th District Spencer Hutchins (R) and Adison Richards (D) and the 35th District James Dehart (D). I again submitted a few questions, (22), and had 4 or 5 as part of the question bank that were asked. This was recorded by BKAT and the video should show up on BKAT and on a link from the Greater Kitsap Chamber of Commerce website. I tried today to find a link to the event on 4 October but could not find it at BKAT or the Greater Kitsap Chamber of Commerce Silverdale websites after a search so it may not be real obvious in where the video actually is located.
Overall it was obvious who had some experience at being a legislator and who hoped to become a legislator. Some things stood out to me. These are my opinions and they are based on what I heard and saw at this event.
For the fix of SR16/SR3 corridor one candidate wanted to see options and maybe widen the road. Another wanted to create a community group to look at the issue. A few commented on the fact it is not a problem that would be solved in the next 2 years. As a side note, I think it is a problem that won’t be solved in the next 2 decades at the speed Olympia works at. Another candidate said that Kitsap County needs to speak with one voice in Olympia, basically the 23rd, 26th and 35th Districts need to work together on a solution and push that in Olympia.
Another question dealt with what made them more qualified than their opponent. One candidate stated they knew the constitution and I think I heard they know what’s best. Another built up a network and had a legal career while other candidates had local support and one worked for 6 state agencies. One of my favorite questions was the magic wand question. Those responses ranged from changing tax policies to repealing anti police legislation. Another wanted better checks & balances on the governor while one would give universal healthcare to Washington residents. Another wanted to reduce taxes & regulations. I think this group gave more thought to the question, maybe they watched the last Eggs & Issues event.
I won’t detail every question or answer, go view the BKAT video and make your decision. I will give an overall impression of the responses. There were a number of responses that included the lowering of taxes or reducing regulations to support business’s or increase funding to support mental health and drug addiction issues. One wanted to create a new facility for mental health services. Another wanted incentives for apprenticeships for ferry workers. All agreed that Counties and Cities should be given additional taxing authority, one did state that Olympia should have final say in the Counties & Cities revenue plans to ensure they stayed legal and fair. Few had answers on how to fund any of these initiatives. One candidate did ask what happened to the $15,000,000,000 in surplus funds Olympia had this year. As a side note, Yes, 15 billion dollars yet property taxes, fees and more revenue from meeting environmental wants and needs will be hitting taxpayers hard. Ouch.
The interplay between Spencer Hutchins & Adison Richards in the 26th District was very interesting. In the opening Hutchins stated he was unhappy with how his party had run some campaign advertising that was very confrontational/mud slinging with his opponent. He did not support that type of dirty campaigning and actually got along very well with his opponent. Richards, his opponent agreed and commented on how well they worked together and he hoped that would continue with others if he won the election. One member of the viewing public commented that many times after the Eggs & Issues event they had a better idea of who to vote for, but not in this case with the two candidates from the 26th, it would be a much harder decision. On side note I have to agree in that I give negative points for political advertising that is confrontational and part of a dirty, mud slinging campaign. I want to know the candidates understand the issues and has some solutions in mind, not that they got a ticket for speeding 10 years ago. One thing brought up I think is key was comments by Hutchins that when Olympia creates policies and new laws that the minority party needs to have a voice in the matter. The laws that were passed by Olympia that restricted law enforcement in their duties was an example. One candidate, Simmons, said it was a good piece of legislation and only needed a few fixes to make it better while Hutchins said if the minority party had a voice in crafting the legislation it would have been a better piece of legislation and emphasized the need for the minority party having a voice in the crafting of legislation. On a side note, I have to agree. I think any legislation that is created from only one point of view is typically a failure. That type legislation is usually one of the parties trying to impress their supporters and ignores the rest of the population. I have heard legislators say at times a piece of legislation is poor but they will fix it in the next session, I think that is just a failure on the legislative process that too many elected are comfortable with. Frankly I think the Independents, Libertarian and other parties have more voters in Washington than the Democrats and Republicans combined so neither party can afford to ignore the non R’s & D’s.
One of the general open ended questions dealt with public safety and law enforcement, it was important enough to the candidates they agreed to have two rounds for the responses. One candidate wanted to have a bill to allow easier decertifying police and another said the reasons for crime, addiction and mental health services, need fixed. It seemed there was a common thread dealing with the need for better mental health services and the use of mental health first responders vice having police respond to potential mental health calls. One candidate responded that addiction is a disease and not a crime. I didn’t hear much from any of the candidates on the issue of the judicial system and the seeming revolving door of someone committing crimes, being arrested and back out on the street in hours and in some cases committing more crimes. Funding sources for the addiction treatments, mental health services and other needs was not brought up at this point by the candidates.
Overall this was a very informative event and I hope everyone does their research and votes in November. I feel bad for the 26th District in that they have potentially two good candidates, which having been in the 26th District decades ago before redistricting, is something that was not common for that district.
I will give a big thank you to the Cloverleaf. I had the Breakfast Bowl Supreme and it was very good and very filling. They have hosted this event for at least two decades and they do a good job in serving the guests who arrive for the event. Also the Greater Kitsap Chamber of Commerce for hosting the event, especially having the guests hold the applause until the end of the event, I think that allowed a few more questions to be asked.
Next up on October 18th Eggs& Issues is the Kitsap County Auditor and the District 3 County Commissioner. Yes, I have my questions ready.
4 October 2022
This was the first Eggs & Issues I have attended since before the covid issue. It seems the Silverdale Chamber of Commerce and the Bremerton Chamber of Commerce have combined themselves into the Greater Kitsap Chamber of Commerce. I guess the Port Orchard Chamber of Commerce is the Lesser Kitsap Chamber of Commerce. It made for an interesting meeting. This took place at the Cloverleaf Bar & Grill on Wheaton. Get there early, the debate starts at 0800 but the doors open at 0700 and you can have breakfast. The menu has changed, I had a very good Corned Beef Bowl. There is 4 more Eggs & Issues over the next 4 Tuesdays.
The candidates at this event were from the 26th and 35th Districts Senatorial race. This is 26th District Emily Randall (D) vs Jesse Young (R) and the 35th’s District Julianne Gale (D) vs Drew MacEwen (R). I did break down the party by adding a R or D near their name. Frankly I don’t particularly care for either party, I am more interested in who brings results I can support.
The event was filmed by BKAT and should be available in the future on their website. I did give my stack of questions, 21 actually. I had 2 of my questions asked out of the 7 total that were asked. These were mostly generic, broad view questions. Things like “what is economic development to you?” or “Talk about transportation.” Another was to pick a national issue and talk about that. A very broad subject to say the least.
Did I learn anything? It was interesting seeing Young & Randall engage with each other. Neither have been on the best of terms previously and with both running for the same position, you can see a definite accusatory style of debating. One of the questions I typically ask is “With a magic wand, what piece of legislation would you like to magically get signed by the Governor during the next Legislative Session?” I do this to see how focused the candidate is and if they see something that is a priority. Almost all have a tendency to respond that there are many issues that need legislation approved. To me it shows someone who seems to use the shotgun approach to solving problems and can’t really focus on solutions to the highest priority issue, whatever that is to the candidate. Both Republicans see funding law enforcement as a priority while Randall wanted housing affordability and Gale wanted a citizens voice on the Board of Natural Resources. It is difficult to answer the questions fully in 60 seconds, some will never really answer the question while others give a more detailed response but in a very, very broad format.
Overall they all had ideas to change things for the better, at least according to their view, but few had answers or even a response on how to pay for all of these ideas. One that I think stood out to me was when the question of transportation came up MacEwen said the sales tax on vehicles should be applied to transportation. I liked that idea. It is putting money to where it is needed and by what is using the roads. Randall said she really liked the Move Ahead Washington bill and that it did not increase gas taxes. This bill is funding just under $17,000,000,000 in transportation over 16 years. It’s why kids ride free on public transportation now. It is also why license plate fees ($10 to $50), dealer temporary permits ($15 to $40), enhanced drivers license ($24 to $42), Auto Dealer Documentary Service Fee ($150 to $200) and other fees are increasing. Another way to collect more money is allowing a Transportation Benefit District Sales Tax to be created, much like what Port Orchard already has done. So yes, the gas taxes did not increase (yet) but numerous fees and taxes have increased by larger percentages than just inflation would support.
Watch the BKAT video and make your choice. I hope to attend all 5 Eggs & Issues and will post my thoughts of them on this website.
3 July 2022
On 13 June 2022 I sent an e-mail to the candidates for the 35th Legislative District running in the Primary. I had candidate Tiffany Sevruk (R) responded that day. Her response was: “Hi Roger, Thanks for your email. I’m not able to respond to all of your questions in a timely manner, so I want to direct you to my website, where I’ve provided some specific solutions to our current overspending problems. My top priorities are education; state budget and taxes; and housing. I have experience in all of these areas, and can speak to them at length. For some of the issues below, I’d have to defer to my Republican colleagues on. With 98 State Representatives in Washington, we all bring our own areas of expertise. Hope this helps you get to know me a little better. Thanks again.”
On 14 June candidate Travis Couture (R) responded with the following: “Hi Roger, Thank you for taking the time to ask these important questions. Please allow me a little time to put my best effort into my answers. Additionally, fel free to call me anytime if you wish, my number is below.”
Today is 3 July 2022 and the following candidates have given me zero response to my questions:
Nathan Schneider (D) Patti Case (R) Sandra Kaiser (D) Selina Piker Shearer (R)
I went to the Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) website and researched the e-mail addresses’s of the campaigns for the candidates. If the candidates did not receive my questions then it their issue on a lack of a correct contact information. When I vote I base my choice on many things and how a campaign is run is one of the big items. Do candidates respond to questions in a reasonable time? Do candidates look to actually connect with the voters or are they just making the motions and hope their campaign ignites support?
I will put my questions at the end of this post to give you and idea of what I ask. The funny thing is that many of the questions are the same or very close to the same I used in past elections. So basically at this point there are 6 candidates running for the 35th District Position #2 of which only 2 responded to my e-mail in any way. One basically said that she was to busy to respond to the questions and to look at her website. The other said he would work on the questions and gave me his phone number to contact him.
I admit I have many questions, there were 21 questions on this list, and I try to ask ones that will give me a feel on how knowledgeable the candidate is on the goings on in Olympia. What is their agenda in Olympia? How will they serve those of us in Kitsap County? How well will they work with the other legislators?
I stopped going to candidate forums a while back. Some, like the League of Woman Voters, seemed too controlled as to the questions asked. You can tell when the questions from the audience come from a candidates support base, the obviously practiced response in usually well rehearsed. I have some of my questions asked at forums and you could see the deer in the headlight look from the candidates. I did have a few contact me afterwards and ask for information on the subject of the question, that was a good response.
The Primary on 2 August will give us 2 candidates to choose from on the General Election in November. The 35th District is changing with two incumbents leaving office. Do we in Kitsap County feel represented by the candidates? What direction will Olympia take in 2023? It will be interesting if nothing else. I know at this point where my vote will probably go, I can always change my mind, but I have to wonder how many ghost candidates are running in this Primary election? Feel free to ask the questions if you attend a forum or debate or if you meet the candidates. The response might be interesting.
35th District Candidates Questions:
1. What do you see as the priority in a “fix” for the SR16/SR3 congestion issues? How will this be accomplished and funded?
2. Do you think the Ruckelshaus Center study will result in any significant changes to the Growth Management Act in the next Legislative session? Why or why not?
3. Do you support a mandatory Road Usage Charge (pay by mile)? Why or why not?
4. Do you support removing the current 1% maximum yearly increase in property taxes? Why or why not?
5. Have you used the Kitsap Transit Passenger Only fast ferry in the last few years? Do you think a regional fast ferry system is a potential solution to highway congestion in Kitsap County?
6. How should a potential regional fast ferry system be funded? Be specific.
7. In the next 2 year budget cycle in Olympia, what would be your #1 Capital Budget project to fund for Kitsap County? Why is it a priority?
8. In the next 2 year budget cycle for Olympia, what would be your #1 Transportation Budget project to fund for Kitsap County? Why is it a priority?
9. Should sales taxes on construction materials for new school construction be eliminated? Why or why not?
10. What makes you more qualified to serve the residents of Kitsap County than your opponents? Be specific.
11. What, if any, new tax (or other revenue) would you support and what should that new source of funding accomplish?
12. What will you do about Olympia not fully funding Indigent Legal Services requiring the Counties taxpayers to pick up the additional costs? Be specific.
13. How will you better represent the taxpayers and voters in Kitsap County’s 35th Legislative District in Olympia than your opponents? Be specific.
14. Do you support the use of so called Ghost Bills while in session? Why or why not?
15. With a magic wand, what one piece of legislation would like to magically get signed by the Governor during the next Legislative Session? Explain your choice in detail.
16. What do you see as the biggest change needed in the Growth Management Act? Why?
17. The 35th District is made up of more than just Kitsap County, what common issues does Kitsap County have with the other areas you represent (Mason and Thurston Counties)? Be specific as too commonalities and how you will address common solutions.
18. What makes Kitsap County different from the other areas you represent (Mason & Thurston Counties) and how will you address the issues specific to Kitsap County?
19. Will you support bills that have unfunded mandates for other taxing districts like schools, fire & rescue, and business’s that have costs to meet the requirements of your bills and laws? How will you prevent unfunded mandates? Be specific.
20. Should Counties and Cities be given additional taxing authority or should Olympia be the leader in fiscal responsibility?
21. How will you address the issue of seniors on fixed incomes having issues paying the increases in property taxes? What is your specific solution to give seniors a break on property taxes?
16 March 2022
I hope everyone has a great St Patrick's Day. I have a few Guinness in the refrigerator for the day. Another session in Olympia has ended. It seems the D's and the R's still can't work together and Olympia still sees taxing us more an more or new "fees" and "surcharges" as a solution vice actually being fiscally responsible. When the federal government hands out hundreds of millions of dollars you know every politician in Olympia is looking to fund their pet project. Of course the actual needs and desires of the majority of the taxpayers and voters will be ignored. Wait until when people get their license plate renewals in the mail, That will be a surprise. We are being forced to move towards a "pay by the mile" taxing system to pay for roads You will be paying to drive in your own driveway, pay for driving on the parking lots of any business you go to to shop or even restaurant parking lots. Pay for driving through a drive-through for coffee. You pay now to do the same, but it is based on gas sales taxes on the gas you buy. Use less gas, pay less sales taxes, Olympia didn't see that when they decided on pushing electric vehicles. Instead Olympia wants yo to pay by the mile no matter where you drive. It seems Olympia has taken the almost $0.50 in gas sales taxes and spent the revenue for the next 20 or 30 years by obligating the sales tax revenue to fund bonds for big projects. Want to bet we will have gas tax and pay by mile at the same time for many decades?? If the history of Olympia is any indicator, consumers will be hosed. Just the zero carbon policies will increase gas costs in the future. We see gas at $4.80+ gallon now, I think we will need to get use to that.
Looking forward to seeing what the new restaurant at the Bremerton Airport will provide as a menu and service for the public. Many are waiting to see if it will include the best fish & chips in the area. The facility will be interesting, a restaurant, a hanger and a pilots lounge in the same building jockeying for parking spaces in the Port of Bremerton parking lot. Lots of luck with that when you include the kids playground.
Security is becoming more and more of an issue. If I remember correctly, a hired security guard had their vehicle stolen in Bremerton. Between catalytic converters, gas thefts, ATM thefts and just general breaking and entering, businesses and the public are fed up. When you add in the revolving door justice system in Washington then the typical home or business owner is behind the eight ball. I hope things like this are remembered when it is election time. Whether it is a governor, senator, representative judge, prosecutor, mayor, city council or county commissioner they do not deserve our vote if they are not doing the job we elected them to do. If you feel you are not represented in Olympia or Washington D.C., then stop doing the same thing at every election and make different choices at the ballot box. Get involved in the process, ask questions of the candidates and let the candidates know what your expectations are. Doing the same thing time after time and expecting different results is not the way to go through life. Stir the pot and get involved.
30 December 2021
I have not really kept up with things in 2021. I found out that keeping informed by Zoom is difficult and I think will have a terrible consequence in the future. The public is getting used to seeing their elected on a screen and the elected love the ability to mute the public when they deem necessary. Want to bet at a minimum some public meetings will be switched to on line formats only? I hope things in general are better in 2022, but I think no matter what political party has control, the taxpayers and voters will be hosed. I fully expect more taxes to be approved in 2022. South Kitsap School District will push for a few new capital levies to fix things like a very over budget swimming pool, Kitsap County Commissioners will increase sales taxes, maybe more than one time and others are on the backburner for attention. I think the K911 sales tax increase for radio equipment upgrades is just the beginning of a year or two of tax increases on the horizon. I hope 2022 goes better than I expect, but I think it will be an eye opener for many in Kitsap County.
30 April 2021
I have kept up a little bit these past few months. At this point I think I will be using my Facebook group, Inform Kitsap, as my focal point. I will be posting my thoughts and concerns on that site for the near future. I still have not attended meetings of any sort the last 6 months, and I do not intend to start. I may look at agendas and BKAT videos, but I am mostly relying on local news, residents and elected Facebook postings and conversations I have with the public. I hope I can bring up questions and concerns I have that may match your questions & concerns and we can direct those to the elected who supposedly represent us. If we don't shake the tree often we never know what is actually growing above us. Stay informed and stay involved.
5 November 2020
I have changed this website as I am changing my involvement with local issues. I will be posting on the Inform Kitsap page here and on my Facebook page of the same name.
I will give you a little back round on myself. I have lived in Kitsap County for over 40 years. I had lived in Bremerton and the last 35 or so years I have lived in South Kitsap. I have retired from the USN and PSNS. I have spent hundreds of hours the last four years going to meetings and interacting with our elected officials at many levels. I have learned quite a bit about local politics and how things are done. It is very interesting. To get somewhat of a take on local politics read the book 'Close To The Flame' by Gordon Walgren. It makes for interesting reading and gives a little insight into how things are done in Washington State.
I hope to keep up with local goings on, but I know many things are in the works and it is up to all of us to stay informed and involved as much as we can.