Sequim Gazette staff
The Sierra Club North Olympic Group announced its endorsements recently, including Sequim candidates Linda Barnfather for Clallam County Commissioner; Laura Dubois for Sequim City Council Position 2; and Candace Pratt for City Council Position 7.
Adam Nance, political committee chairman for the Washington State Sierra Club, wrote in the club’s “Cascade Crest” fall 2011 edition that the group conducted an extensive selection process with questions about stopping emissions, supporting renewable energy and protecting fragile ecosystems in wild spaces and cities and suburbs.
Sierra Club endorsed Barnfather because of her desire for a strong county shoreline master plan, her support of the county’s storm water management plan, of low impact development methods and of policies minimizing the county’s risk from global warming. Barnfather continues as an advocate for the Sierra Club’s Wild Olympics campaign and supports protection of Pacific Coast natural areas.
Nance wrote that Barnfather’s experiences as a caregiver facility owner and farmer make her sensitive to issues facing the environment, seniors, property owners, farmers and other factions in the county.
Dubois was endorsed for her priority of moving the city and businesses in a “green” direction and getting a Sequim City plan adopted and under way. Her campaign is based on safety, service and stewardship: ensuring safe water, sewer and storm water treatment and reliable police service. She also promotes sustainable business practices.
Sierra Club endorsed Pratt because of her commitment to environmental sustainability, storm water issues and water issues in general. She also wants Sequim to require a city design code for businesses, especially big box stores, when they apply to build.
Darlene Schanfald, political chairman for the Sierra Club North Olympic Group, said Pratt was not looking for an endorsement but after an interview the club members felt she was a candidate they wanted to support in the upcoming election.
For more on the Washington State Sierra Club, visit www.cascade.sierraclub.org.
