Mercer Island is fortunate to have two quality candidates competing for the same seat on the City Council. My vote goes to El Jahncke. El has extensive experience in city governance and has made significant contributions. He is both diligent and trustworthy.

In these times of budget shortfalls, El has played the leading role in overseeing every detail of the city’s expenditures and future financial commitments. The results show. Over the past 10 years, Mercer Island’s portion of your property taxes has gone down from 17.1 percent to less than 15.4 percent, and costs were lowered and then contained on the two largest city projects, namely the community center and the sewer line replacement. At the same time, city parks and recreation facilities are in better shape and Mercer Island has successfully assumed financial responsibility for Luther Burbank Park and the Mary Wayte Pool.

El works constructively with fellow Council members and city staff. A person of firm convictions, El always remains open to well-considered persuasion.

I encourage you to cast your vote for El Jahncke.

Bryan Cairns