To the editor:
I’m voting for Betty Kamikawa for Lincoln County commissioner. In these times of unprecedented economic, health and social stress we need new leadership to summon the spirit of common cause — that everyone and their livelihoods, families, households, schools and communities matter. That no county resident is left behind, under the lingering shadow of coronavirus pandemic, in our return to prosperity, health and well-being. I’ve known Betty Kamikawa in our work together on the County Commons. She has skills, approaches, temperament, experience and values that Lincoln County needs now.
Betty Kamikawa is a natural leader. Her style is energizing, not polarizing. She listens respectfully to ensure that she understands someone’s concerns or ideas. She does not dismiss them with a “my way or the highway” attitude.
Betty Kamikawa rolls up her sleeves and works diligently. She is creative and thoughtful, with a “think outside the box” problem-solving approach. She sets the example in her tireless work ethic. She does not have a part-time approach to any of her commitments.
Betty Kamikawa truly cares about her community. She stepped up to fill one of Toledo City Council positions vacated by a recall, become president of Grace Wins Haven board and volunteers at the Newport Winter Shelter. She is a doer not a talker.
Betty Kamikawa knows how to wisely spend hard-earned dollars for achieving great results whether it is donations as a Girl Scout leader, contracts as a foster parent, or taxes as a Toledo councilor. This value of good stewardship, missing in present county leadership, is essential as shortfalls in government tax revenues are expected in coming years.
When government has good elected officials, it gets things done in an efficient, effective and respectful manner. Betty Kamikawa is the best candidate for Lincoln County commissioner.
— Cheryl Connell, Newport