On Sept. 26, I had the opportunity to hear from both candidates running for Kingston port commissioner. The candidates are Bruce MacIntyre and Nels Sultan.

Both are well qualified and care about Kingston and its future, however, I decided that Bruce MacIntyre is the man for the job and am hoping that you will join me in voting for him as our next port commissioner.

My reasons for choosing Bruce are based on several reasons that I am happy to share with you.

Bruce outlined four subjects he believes are important topics during this campaign. They are:

1. Making the best use for the community of the port’s newly acquired properties.

2. Expanding the port district’s focus to encompass the entire community.

3. Ensuring the marina continues to be operated efficiently for the benefit of North Kitsap residents and that tax revenues are not subsidizing basic marina operations.

4. The Port District’s role in supporting existing businesses and bringing new business to Kingston that will be compatible with Kingston’s atmosphere and lifestyle.

In discussing these topics, it became clear that Bruce is well educated on port operations and recent activities, and cares deeply that the port’s interface with the community of Kingston expands beyond just the marina area.

As we look at the future of Kingston and the role the port plays, it is important to have commissioners that understand the big picture, listen to the community and care about the economic development of Kingston.

Bruce has operated his own business, and as a successful attorney he understands how to deal with people with opposing views, most importantly listening to the many ideas the citizens of Kingston have, and working with many other committees and organizations that relate to the port.

Mr. Sultan’s educational background gives him a working knowledge of port operations, but based on what he talked about Sept. 26, he doesn’t have the global understanding of what the position entails as it relates to the future of Kingston and prefers to obtain his information by reading documents rather than listening to people.

Please vote for Bruce.

Rita Osborn
Kingston