News & Info

TAHC to Host Candidate Debates

Will Stakelin
Government Affairs Director

On Tuesday, June 17 The Affordable Housing Council (TAHC) will be hosting a debate of the candidates for Thurston County Commissioner, District 2 on TCTV.  The open seat, vacated with the retirement of Commissioner Diane Oberquell, has attracted 5 candidates to the race.

According to TAHC Chair, Scott Roberts, "This is the biggest local race facing our industry.  TAHC members thought hosting a debate would be a great way to gather additional information about each candidate before we make our endorsement decision.  In addition, we believe the debate provides an opportunity for the general public to learn more about the candidates and see where they stand on housing related issues."

The race has attracted a strong list of candidates.  First to announce was Sandra Romero, Democrat, who is a former Washington State Legislator, and current board member of Futurewise.  Next was John Halverson, Democrat, who is a former Mayor of Lacey. Others who have entered the race are Robin Edmondson, Republican, Jackie Jo Reid, Independent, and Bill Pilkey, who is also an Independent and who most recently unsuccessfully ran for Port of Olympia Commissioner and ran against Commissioner Oberquell for this seat in 2004.

The debates will be aired several times throughout the coming months. OMB members will be notified of the viewing dates once they become available.  Under current election law, the top two candidates, regardless of party affiliation, will advance to November's general election.

In the Thurston County Commissioner, District 1 race, there are only two candidates at this time - incumbent Cathy Wolfe, Democrat, and former County Commissioner Judy Wilson, Republican.  If no other candidates emerge, OMB will host a debate with these two candidates before the November general election.

Throughout April and May TAHC sent questionnaires to all candidates within the five-county region that OMB serves, asking a variety of housing industry related questions. TAHC reviewed the returned questionnaires and will be holding candidate interviews for some races before making endorsement and campaign contribution decisions.

To find out how you can get involved with TAHC.  Please contact Will Stakelin, OMB's Government Affairs Director at 360-754-0912.