As a neighbor of Tom Coultas, the incumbent Kingston port commissioner, I have seen him resolve a conflict by calm reasoning, a characteristic that serves the community well in all times.

Tom’s way of working through a tense situation was demonstrated before he began his service as a port commissioner. The reasoning trait is deep, probably formed in his early years and strengthened by experience and reading, though I think he could write a book on leadership himself if he traded the time he gives to work around his house.

In a situation I witnessed when the residents in his neighborhood were petitioning to be served by a new line for Kitsap County PUD water, Tom’s patience and even-toned words meant the difference between the commissioners saying “yes” and the commissioners saying “no, not now.”  In the decisive meeting of the PUD, the three commissioners became so exasperated by the contentious charges of several of the petitioners that they showed themselves unwilling to approve a new line. All but two of the petitioners walked out. Tom Coultas was one of the two petitioners who stayed in the meeting room.

The appearance of Tom Coultas apparently gave the commissioners evidence that the discussion could be resumed in a tone appropriate for an orderly consideration of the issues. After Tom spoke, in a voice that invited calm reflection, the PUD commissioners signified their conditions for approval. In their next meeting, the PUD said yes to the project. Ten homes that had been drawing water from wells soon had the service of the PUD.

During his four terms as a port commissioner, Tom has brought to the table a moderating spirit that has been key in constructing the marina park, replacing old structures with new in the marina, installing a boat launch, and erecting a performance stage. In this time of great improvements, Tom has worked with the commission to negotiate leases with the ferry system and add to the port’s property with a debt-free budget.

Tom Coultas merits re-election.

Denzil Walters
Kingston