May, 20th, 2008
I
would like to thank all my supporters and well wishers throughout the
county. I received positive support for choosing to run and for
choosing to stand up for my beliefs. Most importantly, I received
overwhelming support for standing up for issues such as affordable
housing options, lack of affordable health care, senior services,
improved emergency management, smart growth and LNG's negative
effects on our region. I feel the candidates have taken the time to
discuss some of these issues and I will continue to work for positive
change in our County.
I
wish Mr. Scheller the best of luck in his continued campaign. I
believe his willingness to listen to local Citizens, his thoughtful
approach to development (including preserving open space and trails),
and his dedication to our community make him the best candidate to
represent district 2 in the future. While Ms. Roberts deserves
recognition for putting in the time it takes to be a County
Commissioner and acting as Chair for the Commission, it is time for a
change.
Although
I accepted no campaign contributions, had no signs, and focused on
the issues themselves, I still received a significant total of votes
in this election. I view this as proof of the involvement and
awareness of Clatsop County voters. I applaud their efforts to
investigate the issues and seek change within our county. I sincerely
hope all the citizens of Clatsop County that have spoken out over the
last few years will continue to speak up for their beliefs and for
positive change in our county.
“Never
doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change
the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has. “ - Margaret
Mead
Kelly's 2008 run for County Commissioner
I tossed my hat into the ring to give the voters a fresh choice in County leadership. Our County government representatives should be open and honest with their positions on the issues affecting our county, therefore I am listing my views here for all to see.
I support affordable health care and child care, affordable housing, increased assistance to seniors, improved emergency management and communication and greater support for our County animal shelter. I further support the sale of the Delaura Beach property to the state to benefit the citizens of Clatsop County for generations to come.
I believe in the principals of smart growth and think future development should follow the County Master Plan. If additional development is needed, the Master Plan should be reviewed and altered, rather than granting variances to powerful interests for harmful projects that conflict with the County's best interests.
I am against placing an LNG facility in the region. I believe LNG will ruin our tourist economy, our pristine landscape and our natural resources. LNG will cause a devaluation in Clatsop County real estate. LNG is a transient technology that will cause permanent and major disruption to the Columbia for short term corporate gain.
I promise to research issues throughly in order to come to the best decision for our county. I welcome input from community members and believe an open forum should exist for individuals to voice their opinions on County issues. I applaud our local government officials for taking the time and putting in the effort to make Clatsop county a great place to live. I am willing to be part of our local governmental process and to serve our growing community.