Vancouver resident Katie Bauer offers her thoughts on the race

Editor’s note: Opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are those of the author alone and do not reflect the editorial position of ClarkCountyToday.com

Newcomer to the political scene, Kim Hamlik seems nice with an outgoing personality but are the people of Clark County going to get an experienced professional with knowledge of how the county runs? Unfortunately, Clark County voters have been down this path many times before with the likes of Julie Olson and Jamie Herrera Beutler to name a few. Case in point, Mrs. Hamlik admitted at one event that she didn’t know that the Clark County Council and the Clark County Board of Health are one in the same. She claims she has more time to give to the role but does more time equate to a stronger, more proficient county councilor? Or do we want a councilor who has more than 20 years of experience with multi-million-dollar contract negotiations when we need a new jail and bridge to be built? And a councilor candidate who without being an elected official, is already working with local agencies on the homeless issue? Do we want a councilor who is already fully aware of the latest Columbia River bridge project and is working with other candidates and current legislators to overcome the hurdles?

Recently, LifePac.org endorsed Michelle Belkot before the Aug. 2 primary election when they usually wait until the general election in November to endorse a candidate. Mrs. Hamlik was not endorsed by LifePac. What is Mrs. Hamlik’s stance on abortion?

Also, according to PDC filings, why does Mrs. Hamlik have Democrat Jim Moeller’s former treasurer as her own campaign treasurer? Anybody who has been around Clark County politics knows that Jim Moeller, former state representative (49 the District), is one of the most liberal Democrat politicians and to have the same treasurer is a very troubling choice to say the least. Also, Betty Sue Morris appears to have thrown her support to Mrs. Hamlik by donating so Republicans have to ask, is she really a Republican?

Lastly, in a recent candidate interview Mrs. Hamlik shared that she doesn’t believe the people of Clark County have a right to medical freedoms and she’d support in lockstep more lockdowns and follow “the experts.” Michelle Belkot said she stands with the people on this issue and believes we all deserve the right to make those choices for ourselves and our families and believes that Constitutional rights shouldn’t be tossed aside.

These questions are vital for the people of Clark County so we can all be informed voters. There are so many forums, meet and greets, and other events where you can ask these questions of all Clark County Councilor candidates. Based on what I’m seeing, I already know I’ll be voting for the most experienced, most qualified candidate for District 2 – Michelle Belkot.

Katie Bauer
Vancouver

---

Also read:

• 
  Opinion: The growing gap between public voice and political power
  Todd Myers describes how large-scale protest and sign-ins often fail to sway state leaders, and argues authentic influence is most likely found through local action.
• 
  Opinion: Who is winning the race for affordable power?
  Hydroelectric power keeps Washington competitive, but new laws and carbon pricing are driving up electricity costs for residents each year.
• 
  Opinion: Half the road, full stop – Understanding pedestrian right-of-way
  Doug Dahl explains how Washington’s law requires drivers to stop when a pedestrian is within one lane of their half of the road, not just when directly in front.
• 
  Opinion: The state’s RFK-proofing bill comes with a cost
  Mandates like HB 2242 can lead to higher premiums as insurance companies absorb costs for new preventive services, affecting affordability statewide.
• 
  Opinion: What is the cost of a bridge?
  John Ley argues the I-5 Bridge replacement’s soaring cost stems from costly extras like light rail, noting other states deliver larger, toll-free bridges for much less.