Two-term incumbent faces tough, candid challenger for Snohomish County Council

Ellen Watson Hiatt The race for Snohomish County’s District 1 council position could be described as one of experience versus change.

Two-term Republican incumbent John Koster said he will rely on experience in the public and private sectors to focus on strengthening and diversifying the economy while planning for future growth.

The former dairyman and state lawmaker said, “I love this county. I want it to continue to be a terrific place to live, work and play.”

A resident of Arlington, Koster described the county as having great diversity of people and natural resources.

Newcomer Democratic candidate Ellen Hiatt Watson wants to “provide representation that is actually listening to the community.”

“There has been far too much political posturing,” explained Watson, giving her reason for seeking the position. “More ‘we can’t,’ rather than ‘we can.’”

John Koster The Seven Lakes-area resident described the county as “a gift,” with beautiful recreation areas, fine cities, a strong agricultural tradition and great people.

Watson hopes to bring people together by tapping into a wealth of knowledge from the area’s citizens.

“It’s a big job to do. I know I can do it,” said Watson.

However, Koster believes the job will remain secure in his hands.

“I don’t need any on-thejob training,” he said.

It’s an edge he feels important during the current economic crisis.

Besides addressing immediate concerns with the economy, Koster would like to see the county house a four-year college, continue to keep people safe through adequate law enforcement and find a balance between future development and taxation.

The challenge is to live within the county’s budget while figuring out how to prioritize certain projects, he said.

Koster highlighted his work record on transfer development rights, streamlining the permitting process through technology, keeping taxes down and expanding the county’s park system.

“I am extremely proud of the number of parks in the area,” said Koster, “especially, the county’s takeover of Wenberg State Park.”

Still, Watson said Koster is “out of touch.”

“I don’t think you can point to a man of accomplishment,” she said. “I have seen his pattern of leadership to be destructive, not productive.”

Like Koster, Watson agrees the economy needs an immediate boost in the coming term. She is looking to help foster small businesses to expand sustainable job growth.

In addition, she is focused on maintaining quality of life for county residents by continuing to promote safety and quality education.

Drawing on her background in journalism and consulting, as well as her work as a citizen activist for rural land rights, Watson would like to open more lines of communication between elected officials and community members.

Interaction with the community through doorbelling, round tables and forums has been an honor and pleasure, said Watson.

Koster keeps his pulse on the community by devoting Fridays, as much as possible, to correspondence with constituents through email, phone calls, letters and meetings.

“I’m doing whatever it takes to meet with as many people as possible,” he said.

Both candidates will be participating in a candidates forum hosted by the America Association of University Women (AAUW), Stanwood/ Camano Branch, and the NEWS, on Wednesday, Oct. 21 at 6:30 p.m. in the Stanwood Middle School cafeteria, 9405 271st St. NW.

Staff Reporter Adam Stewart: 629-8066 ext. 115 or astewart@scnews.com.