To the editor:

I attended the city council candidate forum at the senior center and came away with two observations I would like to share.

The first is that with a single exception, the candidates are all very uninformed about the way city government actually works, about the work and accomplishments of the council over the past four years, and about city initiatives currently in process. Since voters have to choose representatives from this short cast of characters, I hope they look beyond claims and promises, and select people who will come to the job with an open mind, and with the ability to work collaboratively with each other and our fine city staff. Beware of the candidates with all of the answers.

My second message is that voters should enthusiastically accept Wayne Roth’s willingness to serve a second term on the city council. Four years ago Wayne was part of the change that was needed to complete the repair of a damaged city government. His steady hand and his long commitment to and involvement in the affairs of our Island have made him an effective leader. Keeping Wayne on the council will go a long way toward ensuring that whoever else is elected, the council will continue to function efficiently, with respect, and with deep concern for the best interests of every Islander.

Vote, vote carefully, and vote for Wayne Roth.

VAL TOLLEFSON

Bainbridge Island