To the editor,
In response to Tom Debor’s letter published June 1 in the North Kitsap Herald asking “honest questions” about my seeking election to the state legislature.
My first act, when I was elected mayor of the city of Poulsbo, was to physically remove the door from my office. This was my way of saying with total certainty that I will not tolerate decisions behind closed doors or elected leaders that act without transparency. When the legislature decided they didn’t need to show their emails to the citizens they serve, even after they had been sued by most major newspapers in the state, I knew I had to speak out and run for office.
I am fiscally conservative, socially responsible, environmentally active and firmly believe in the concept of open government. With regards to my caucus choice when I am elected to the state legislature, I have reached out to Speaker Frank Chopp and asked for his advice. I await his response. I filed as an independent because I hold a non-partisan office as mayor and take my oath of office seriously.
There is no conflict in holding two elected offices. State Senator Tim Sheldon from the 35th legislative district simultaneously was a Mason County Commissioner. I think more local elected leaders should seek office in the legislature, so laws and regulations can be crafted pragmatically with the voice of local government clearly heard.
I routinely work over 60 hours a week. I have worked long hours all my life as a business executive. Our working world is mobile. I have a cell phone, laptop, email, Skype and can easily communicate with multiple offices. I can and will do both jobs, state representative and mayor.
My open office hours will be extended. Since June of 2010 I have held open office hours in Poulsbo City Hall, 9:00 until noon, no appointment required. Starting Saturday June 16th my office hours will be as follows:
Every Saturday: Poulsbo City Hall: 9:00 until noon
Village Green, Kingston, 1:00 until 3:00pm
Every Sunday: Blackbird Bakery, Bainbridge Island: 10:00 until noon
Silverdale Waterfront Park: 1:00 until 3:00pm
Come talk to me. No appointment required. I want to hear your ideas, concerns and questions. Sherry Appleton has been in office for a long time. It is time for change.
Becky Erickson
Mayor of Poulsbo