ELECTIONS 2024: May Update (MARIE SHIMADA)

Marie Shimada (D-Freeland), running for Island County Commissioner in District 1, sent an email to supporters on Wed., May 29, 2024.

Friends,

It’s been a busy month, which means this is a long email! But first, a story. I have found myself starting each house party speech with a personal story from the campaign that highlights why this campaign is so important.

On February 6, I attended a Board of Island County Commissioners Public Hearing regarding updates being made to the Shoreline Master Program. I’m not an SMP expert, so I spent the evening beforehand reviewing the 400-page proposed draft document. When I arrived to the Feb. 6 hearing, the room was packed – it was standing-room only in the back. I listened attentively to all the comments being made by the public, of which there were tons, but there’s one comment from that hearing I will simply never forget: when the District 2 Commissioner stated that she thinks the County doesn’t need Natural Resources staff and could eliminate the Shore Friendly program. What happened next? Nothing. No other commissioner corrected the statement, or spoke up for staff, before the hearing continued to the next comment.

Why am I telling this story? Because I believe District 1 deserves to have a commissioner who is willing to protect natural resources. I believe we deserve leadership who can publicly advocate for staff. Shore Friendly is a grant-funded program that helps residents learn how to protect their shorelines with natural techniques. I think our district’s community values would support this effort, and I will be a Commissioner who stands up for these values in protection of our district. In my role as Manager at Ebey’s Reserve, I was thrilled a year ago when my board was able to add the County’s Natural Resources Manager as a member, ushering in a new era for the Reserve to add a climate lens to our work in preserving Whidbey’s heritage. Now, I am thrilled to be the candidate who has been endorsed by Island County employees.

[Ed. Note: “Donate to protect our district” button omitted.]

I am honored to announce that I have been endorsed by the Island County Democratic Committee! This endorsement is very meaningful to me because without the Island County Democrats Rise and Run Committee, I wouldn’t have pursued public office. I am also thankful to the many members of Island County Democrats who have personally supported my campaign.

My friends over at Whidbey Climate Action are hosting an event as part of their “Island Conversations” series. I received permission to share the event flyer with you all. This month’s topic is Permaculture, and the presenter is internationally-known trainer, Penny Livingston. I’ve got it in my calendar – hoping you do, too!

PRIDE EVENTS

Want to hang out with Team Marie? We will be at Greenbank Cidery this Saturday, June 1, kicking-off Pride Month with a bracelet making party. Team members will hand out these bracelets during the June 15 (Coupeville) and June 22 (South Whidbey) Pride Parades.

This is also a great opportunity to come out and chat with Marie about local issues!

Campaign Updates

• Our new yard signs arrived! Let us know if you want one.
• Want to join Team Marie for Pride? I will be walking with the Island County Democrats in Coupeville on June 15 and in Langley on June 22. Wear something pink or purple and join our parade group!
• Events: We are in the process of finalizing multiple events. Our June newsletter will announce big campaign events in both Clinton (Comforts Winery) and Coupeville (Ebey Road Farm). Stay tuned! Rumor has it there will be a charcuterie competition coming up at one of our June events – yum!
• Postcard Team: Our postcards have arrived, and my team will be spending the coming weeks getting cards and addresses to you. I can’t wait to reach more voters!

I’ve been staying busy with endorsement questionnaires and interviews by unions or advocacy organizations, I door-knocked this month in Freeland and Coupeville, and I’ve been having coffee meetings with dozens of local folks. I appreciate all of the new and continued support from people like you.

In service,

Marie Shimada

[Ed. Note: DONATE button omitted here.]

P.S. Team Marie was recently alerted of an impermissible campaign sign removal and destruction. While we have no control over these issues that are not part of our activity, we do want to strongly state that we don’t condone this type of behavior.

Our campaign follows the practice of ensuring that our signs are only placed where permission is granted. If there are questions regarding our sign placements, we welcome community members to reach out.There are many pressing issues this community is facing, and I have appreciated what voters have shared as I have been out in your neighborhoods over the past few weeks. Let’s all move forward with focus on voter outreach, climate resilience, housing for all, and a thriving economic community in Island County.

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