Dear Editor,

As a former Walla Walla County Commissioner, I believe that I understand the job duties and the skill sets needed to perform these duties. One of the most important responsibilities is being a good steward of the tax payer’s money in developing and overseeing of the County budget. While every County department has certain mandated responsibilities, budget needs, and desires, the Commissioners have to balance these with available funds. This task is not done without the input from all of the departments and assistance of the County Treasurer and County Auditor, but the final budget approval is the Commissioners responsibility. Thus, it is very beneficial to have a business and or an accounting background. As a professional accountant and a business manager Todd Kimball is the candidate that has the background and skills to best perform these duties.

One of the other duties of a Commissioner can involve land use decisions. It is very important in making these decisions that there is someone on the Board of County Commissioners that has a background in agriculture and understands the impact that these decisions may have on the farm community and the farm landowners. As a farmer, Todd would bring this invaluable knowledge and insight to this decision making process.

Therefore, it is without any reservations that I am voting for Todd Kimball for County Commissioner, and would encourage you to do the same.

Gregg Loney

Walla Walla