As the budget official for Snohomish County between 1999 and 2013, I worked closely with both Snohomish County Executive John Lovick and County Council Chair Dave Somers. I respect both of these men. However, I am confident in endorsing only Dave Somers in the upcoming election.
Dave Somers was Snohomish County Council Chairman in the fall of 2008 when the executive delivered a recommended 2009 budget to the council. We felt the proposed budget was appropriately conservative, but it did not anticipate the most intense financial market collapse since the Great Depression that occurred in the following weeks.
During October and November, Dave Somers presided over an inclusive process that made significant and necessary cuts to the recommended budget. Under Dave’s leadership, the council listened to the public while it partnered with the executive, electeds and all county staff in making budgetary changes that preserved the integrity of county programs while allowing the county to financially keep its head above water.
John Lovick, as sheriff and county executive, has not demonstrated fiscal discipline. Whether increasing operational expenditures or putting together a plan for a new courthouse, Lovick has not kept his eye on the budget ball. Despite a booming economy and increased property tax rates, the county’s general fund reserves have dropped and the county faces an uncomfortable level of risk to any downturn in the regional economy.
I endorse Dave Somers for county executive because of his strong record in making tough decisions. He has demonstrated good financial management sense that we need. I encourage others to join me in supporting his candidacy.
Roger Neumaier
Everett
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