OK to contribute to campaign

"When in doubt, do not guess, do the research, get the word from the experts on the subject, then move forward or / or share the information, once confirmed."

The other day, I was asked by a public employee if it was OK for them to contribute to my campaign fund or support me in other ways.

I requested a legal opinion and this was the response:

It would be legally appropriate for you to accept and use campaign contribution from a public employee, assuming that the contribution was not offered and/or made using district facilities or during the employee's working hours. RCW 41.06.250(2), guarantees employees of political subdivisions of the state the right to vote and to express their opinions on all political subjects and candidates:

Employees of the state or any political subdivision thereof shall have the right to vote and to express their opinions on all political subjects and candidates and to hold any political party office or participate in the management of a partisan, political campaign. Nothing in this section shall prohibit an employee of the state or any political subdivision thereof from participating fully in campaigns relating to constitutional amendments, referendums, initiatives, and issues of a similar character, and for nonpartisan offices.

Also, a regulation adopted by the state Public Disclosure Commission, WAC 390-05-271(1) provides:

RCW 42.17A.555 does not restrict the right of any individual to express his or her own personal views concerning, supporting, or opposing any candidate or ballot proposition, if such expression does not involve a use of the facilities of a public office or agency.

(RCW 42.17A.555 is the statute that prohibits the use of public office or public facilities in support of or in opposition to any candidate or ballot proposition.) The right to express opinions/views regarding candidates includes, in our opinion, the right to make campaign contributions in support of candidates. And, certainly, no statute prohibits such political contributions from public employees.

Bob Meinig

Legal Consultant

MRSC.org |

Hope that answers the question,
Thanks
Tony

The hand you shake

"Do not think less of the person with calloused hands for this person has performed hard, physical labor to earn his keep, an honest endeavor, the type of work that built this country."

When we meet in person, which I hope will happen, and I shake your hand, my hands will be clean though they may show the signs of hands-on repair and building projects.  I am as proud of what I can do with my hands as I am of what my mind can accomplish.  Repairing or building something helps me hone my trouble shooting and problem solving skills and stimulates me to search for solutions "outside the box."

When the hands and the mind work in accord, both develop new skills and talents.

Thank you all for the work you do!
Tony

To avoid misunderstanding

"At times, adding details, even after the fact, can help reduce misunderstanding."

In my last blog, I mentioned that I had purchased a metal lathe.  For those who know tools, this would usually be a large expenditure. I was very fortunate to find this one, an Asian-made (would have preferred one made here) 9 x 24 inch "benchtop" model.  As I mentioned, it needs quite a bit of TLC to be put back into service.  I frequently need a lathe to make a bushing or bearing or any number of other items for projects I work on.

I truly enjoy bringing new life to tired and broken items, especially tools and equipment.  Saving something from the garbage dump or scrap yard and making it useful again gives me great fulfillment.  At times, parts may be too expensive or just no longer available and there lies the challenge, making the part or modifying something I have salvaged from something else.

I was around 12 when I first saw a lathe in action.  A family friend, Todd Haller, ran a boat yard / machine shop and he would let me hang out and watch him work.  I was so impressed with what he could make on the lathe that, right there and then, I decided that, someday, I would have one.  I have been watching all the lathe videos on You Tube and have read many articles on their use.  I have so much to learn on its operations, but learning and developing new skills in different areas keeps me stimulated and engaged.

I paid less than $200.00 for it with the money coming from the sale of a couple of other tools I had fixed up and sold.  The remainder of the money I received from selling the tools will go to the campaign.

I just wanted you to know that, when I ask for your financial help with the campaign, that I have been paying, so far, from our savings, with the addition of a one contribution and the sale of a few items.

Thanks
Tony

My other "business suit"

This is the project I mentioned in the last blog.  The last thing a guy needs is a heavy leather coat on a day like today, but protects you from burns and "welder's suntan".

A day away

"Taking time to pursue different activities, maintaining a balance between work, new endeavors and that good old therapeutic day in the shop protects you from one commitment becoming overwhelming."

Today was focused on a couple of projects out in the shop, ones that have taken a back seat to the campaign.  I have been asked if I have the time for the Hospital Board and the PUD Board.  For most of the 40 years I have served as an elected Hospital Commissioner, I also had a full time "day job".

I am still as active as ever with the hospital and am attending all of the PUD Board, Citizen Advisory Board, and several other PUD related organization's meetings PLUS conducting the campaign.  To me, when elected, serving on both boards will have one less "job" (the campaign) than I have now.

Back to the shop project.  A couple of weeks ago, I picked a "fixer upper" metal lathe.  Today, I finished building a mobile stand for it.  I had some 4 inch "I" beam and some 3 inch heavy wall steel pipe, both salvaged and re-purposed for this stand.  A couple of hours of cutting and welding, add some heavy duty casters I purchased at a garage sale and a coat of paint and, well, it came out quite functional and not bad looking.  Now to give that old small lathe a lot of TLC.

Tomorrow I will be attending the Climate Change meeting.  I have heightened concerns since I heard about the discovery of large releases of methane (?) plumes off the New England Coast and wanted to hear what others think about it.  At a recent Energy Lunch, the presenter spoke to the concern that warming may cause catastrophic releases of methane as the methane hydrate on the bottom of the ocean melts.

Action must be taken preserve this fragile globe we all call home.  A famous quote by John E. Lewis seems appropriate: "If not us, then who?  If not now, then when?

Thanks and remember: Conservation can help and you can become part of the solution, reduce, reuse and recycle.  Our grandkids will thank us!

Tony
 

Ballots and Wallets

"We all agree that the office should go the the most qualified candidate.  The ballot decides the winner but, unfortunately, the wallet can greatly affect the outcome of the election"

Asking for help, something I do not do well.  There, I said it!!  Now that we have that out of the way, here comes the commercial.

If you think I have the qualifications, the energy, the dedication and those other qualities that make me your choice for PUD Commissioner, PLEASE, share that with your friends, neighbors, family, co-workers.  Word of mouth, personal recommendations, carries far more weight than a campaign button or yard sign. 

As for those we cannot personally reach, newspaper ads, yard signs, postcards and buttons will, at least, get my name out there in front of the voters.  It is said that a person must see or hear a name 13 times during a short period of time for it to register and be remembered.  This portion of the campaign results in rather large expenditures.  To date, my wife and I, plus one contributor, have, thus far, paid the bills.

As November nears and the campaign ramps up, the costs will also significantly rise.  We need your help, your financial support, if I am to be your next PUD Commissioner.  I know, times are tough (as my father always said), but any amount will truly be appreciated and every dollar will help give me the opportunity to make the changes needed to improve our PUD and make it something of which we can all be proud.

Please send your contributions, and make checks payable to:

De Leo for PUD
P O Box 1534
Port Hadlock   WA   98339

And now, back to your regularly scheduled program (old radio and TV stuff)

Thank you !!!
Tony & Sherry De Leo



 

Should I ??

"When wise council leads you away from your original path, you must consider which road will best take you to your chosen destination without compromising your personal ethics or convictions."

I have been told by many that "doorbelling" is the way to victory in an election.  I have listened to this advice but I am still convinced that I want to continue treating my neighbors, the voters, the way I would want to be treated.  It is not that I lack the initiative, commitment, time or energy to make "invade" our community, neighborhood by neighborhood, I just want to respect your privacy.

I do not appreciate having someone appearing at my door, disturbing my day, that is, unless it is the team from Publisher's Clearinghouse with that that huge check!!.  I feel, as was stated by a member of the audience during a debate, that this is, in effect, trespassing.

I truly want to have the opportunity to serve you as your PUD Commissioner and I want to hear your concerns and suggestions for our PUD.

PLEASE, if you want to share a bit of time with me to share ideas on our PUD, please let me know and I will meet with you, at your convenience.  Just give me a call at 360 385-6335 (my home) or Email at DeLeo4PUD@gmail.com and we can set a date and time.

Thank you
Tony

A slight course change

"Those not willing to adapt to changing circumstances may let opportunity pass them by and, instead of being part of the future, they will become part of the past."

As to yard signs,  my initial plans regarding them have changed as the campaign has progressed.  I had planned not to use yard signs however, enough people have asked for them and told me that the signs will get my name out there if front of potential voters , so I decided to go with the flow

Plan B was to re-purpose existing signs from another candidate, and we will still work on this.  I am not in favor of being responsible for creating more of these #5 plastic signs that are not recyclable nor compostable.

Next chapter.  After pricing printed paper signs to cover the original name, I found that the new plastic signs are less expensive.  With more folks asking for yard signs, the decision was made to order the new signs and have them to distribute early in September.

We will still try to reuse the signs we have gathered, but that will take time and money for paint and stencils.  I have not given up on these and will keep trying to make these work  for additional locations.  Either way, we will use the metal stands that came with the used signs we received.

In most situations, we go in with our minds set on a certain plan or solution.  When circumstances change or financial constraints lead you to a new path, you must be flexible and be willing to adapt to the the new situation.  When a person digs in their heels, refusing to change, regardless of the circumstances, the outcome may be less favorable than it might have been.  No matter what happens, the decision must still be compatible with your ethical standards.

This is true in personal activities, but far more so when you have been chosen to represent a group of people, managing their assets and organization, spending their money, working toward meeting their expectations and delivering promised services.

Through my 40 years as a Hospital Commissioner, I have remained flexible and, after doing the research and looking at the alternatives, I have been willing to change the plan as long as it will result in the best outcome.

Today I will be attending the Jefferson County Democratic "Fish Fry".  The PUD Commission office is non-partisan, as am I, but this may be a chance to raise needed funds to continue the campaign.  My wife and I, along with one donation from a friend, have supported and staffed my campaign.  To improve our PUD will take a team as will winning the election in November.

Thanks
Tony

Working with architects

"Working with experts can, at times, be frustrating because they do not see the project the way that you do and, frequently, that is a very good thing!"

Friday was another day conducting the business of the Hospital District.  We met with the design team from Collins - Woerman Architects from Seattle to discuss the current details of the interior design theme and the refinements to the exterior of the new Emergency and Special Services (ESS) building.  Two of the five commissioners attended, along with Mike Glen and several members of his team.

The delay in the process gave us additional time to develop plans to reduce construction cost while still producing a really well designed and constructed building.

Then home for a bit of time to plan the next phase of my campaign for PUD Commissioner, including ordering buttons. 

Thanks for viewing and tell your friends if you like what you see here.
Tony

Debate #3

"Be prepared for each and every opportunity and none shall pass you by."

Last night many of the candidates for local offices, including my opponent and myself, had the chance to share our messages with the Jefferson County Fire Commissioner and Secretary Association.  This was held at the Quilcene (Jefferson County Fire Protection District #2) fire station #21, downtown Quilcene.

The turnout was good and the session was well run by the moderator.  It felt like going home, being around the fire equipment and firefighters.  I did notice that the equipment has gotten bigger and the firefighters seem younger.  Refreshments were supplied, which I appreciated as I had not taken time to eat before I left the house.

I believe that I presented well.  The audience seemed to appreciate my message and the answers I provided to their questions.

This debate was more comfortable to me, possibly because I have had a bit of practice during the first two, but, more likely, I relaxed and allowed me to be myself, including the occasional bit of humor.

Thank you for your support and I hope I can continue to gain your trust and confidence in my ability to do the job as your PUD Commissioner.
Tony

A day at the office

"Being able to roll up my sleeves and get to the work of governing was a pleasant relief from the hectic campaign trail to the November election."

Today my energies were focused on my duties as an elected Hospital Commissioner for Jefferson County Public Hospital District #2, Jefferson Healthcare, a position I have held for over 40 years.

Today started at 11 with a Service Excellence administrative committee meeting.  Next was a lengthy review of several medical staff application files for approval at subsequent Commission meetings.  Then on to the Hospital District Board of Commissioners meeting at 3:30.  That ran until around       5 PM (shorter than usual).  A very productive day!

As I have said, I am not now, nor will never be, a politician.  Some seem to appreciate being the center of attention, having a crowd hanging on their every word.  NOT ME!  I just want the opportunity to serve my community through an additional roll as PUD Commissioner, with the same energy, commitment and attention to detail that I have brought to my current position.

To make a good day even even better, I received my first campaign contribution from a close friend and mentor.  Somehow, the gesture had far more value and meaning to me than the money given.  

Thanks
Tony

A great day!

"Long, busy days are frequently the most rewarding."

Brief report tonight.  We just returned home after meeting our daughter in Silverdale (half way) to hand off our grand daughter.  We really enjoyed her visit.

On to other stuff.  I attended the L2020 Energy Lunch today for a presentation by Bonneville Power Administration, followed by a session with Cascadia and Bill Graham (PUD) updating us on the progress in the conservation program. Then, a chance to chat with members of the Hospice board and supporters at a tea in the afternoon.  A quick pit stop at home then off to the PUD Board meeting in
Quilcene.

Long day, but I gained some great info and made some good contacts.

Tomorrow is committed to Hospital District business.  Service Excellence committee at 11AM, then on to reviewing medical staff credentials for approval, then the Hospital District Commission meeting at 3:30PM.  Should be home by 7PM.  I will work on my campaign tomorrow evening.

Thanks to those who have been so encouraging  for my PUD Commission campaign, I really appreciate the support.  I will get buttons ordered tomorrow and start to work on yard signs.  Ken McMIllen graciously gave me his signs for my campaign.  My plan is to paint them and add my message.  Not sure exactly how this will work, may have to order paper signs to past over them. Either way, I will be reducing and reusing, two of the three "R's".

So far, the expenses, all of them, for my campaign are still coming our of my pocket, no contributions as yet other than the signs.  I must admit, your help would really be appreciated.
Sleep well, tomorrow is another day!!

Tony

OOPS!!

"Check twice, write once".

The PUD Board meeting tonight is at the Quilcene Community Center, NOT the Quilcene Fire Department.  Sorry about that!!
Tony

Untitled

"Some days, the words just escape me."

I spent 4+ hours at the candidates booth at the All County Picnic yesterday.  It was a great event although, it seems, did not draw the crowd I had expected.  I occasionally took a break and chatted with those attending as well as those staffing the various booths.

Thank you Chef Stark for the great job you and your crew did with the fresh corn on the cob.

Today was another day, but a day away from the campaign trail.  It, our PUD and the Hospital District are never out of my mind, but this was a needed diversion. 

Over the last two days, one of our grand kids have been staying with us.  This has been great fun and we have enjoyed every minute of it.   I just with I had that much energy!

I have a new (well, new to me) toy.  For months I have been searching for a small metal lathe within my budget.  I even placed a wanted ad on Craigslist.  Well, yesterday, it happened.  Someone in Belfair had a used a small 9 x 20 inch import lathe at a price that was in my budget. He really gave me a great deal, much lower than I had ever expected.  I sold a lift I had fixed up and used part of the money to buy the lathe, the rest to go to fund my campaign.

This little lathe needs some work and lots of TLC, but I love a challenge, be it reviving an old tool or running for PUD Commission.  I used a homemade hoist I built to get it out of my pickup and it now resides on a wheeled cart, another project, but a fun one.  After I get the stand build for it, I will mount it and start the repairs, cleanup and fine tuning.  For now, it will have to wait, busy day tomorrow.

I will be at the Energy Lunch tomorrow, followed by the Energy Efficiency Workshop, then on to a small tea for the Hospice Foundation, next to the PUD Board meeting in Quilcene, at the Fire Hall, 5PM.  If the Board meeting adjourns early enough, I will try to catch the last part of the Citizens for Local Food meeting at the County Library.  Just another busy day.  Lots to learn about all the areas of our lives touched by our PUD.

The lathe will be on my mind, somewhere, but the PUD and the Hospital are my prime concerns and I have the energy and time for both and still maintain a balanced life with my family, regardless of what my opponent may imply.

Have a great day tomorrow!!
Tony

What I have learned in my workshop

"Once you have developed the skills needed to analyze problems and develop solutions, that talent transfers easily to other endeavors."
When a person becomes involved with complex organizations such as a Hospital District or Public Utility District, if they do not keep their eye on the prize, developing the process can become the focus rather that resolving the original issue.

Spending time in my workshop helps me relax, remain grounded, and seeing the finished product in a relatively short period of time fulfills me.  Out in the world of my garage/shop, there are basically four types of projects, each requiring a different approach:

•  Build from scratch:  This allows the most freedom for creativity, but also requires more detailed planning that will assure that, throughout all phases, tab A will, in fact, fit into slot B and gear C will mesh with gear D.  Any miscalculation or omission can result in major rework requiring extra time, effort and expense to correct.

This is great training for the planning process in that it helps focus attention to detail for all aspects and phases of preparing for future needs and providing for contingencies while it reminds me of the consequences of leaving something out.

• Modify an existing item for a new function:  This type of project is usually less demanding while still requiring some imagination.  For the most part, you have the parts you need but they have to be reconfigured.  Frequently, however, you will need to add additional parts so it will fill the new need.  This can require a trial and error approach, but thinking before doing can result in a better result.

This helps develop the mental "tools" needed to adapt current plans and processes so they can continue to function as circumstances and demands change.

>>Hang in there, there is a point to this, REALLY!!<<

• Repair and put back in to service:  These projects require a more rigid, process oriented approach with less imagination and creativity needed.  You know what the machine does (or did) and you want to return it to its original function.  You just have to find the problem and fix it.  There are certain sequential steps, like in diagnosing the problems with a lawn mower engine.  You check the compression, then the spark, then the fuel system, and so on.

This applies to the ongoing monitoring of existing programs and services.  If it seems to not be working well, you systemically analyze how it functions, identify the problems, and make the needed changes.

• The great mystery:  These are the ones that require all of your skills and knowledge and that usually prove that you do not, if fact, know everything (I already knew that about myself).  These projects usually begin with the simple words "PaPa, fix".  One of our grandkids is standing there, holding up some new-fangled hyperspace what-cha-ma-callit toy that will no longer save the Galaxy from alien invaders, or a hi-tech squirt gun that will no longer drench their siblings.  There it is, sitting on my bench, and there, next to me, is a small person with big eyes about ready to start tearing up.  I apply all the wisdom I have gathered over some 65 years and find it a bit lacking.  Off I go to our home office to search the internet for the product manual or any blogs dedicated to keeping this device operating and the little ones smiling.  These are the battles that, sometimes, you just cannot win.  So off to the store for a replacement.

In life, especially in business or public service, issues will arise that you just cannot get your head around.  This is when you may have to tap the resources of the "hired guns", the experts from out of town.  Sometimes it just involves contacting an association of like organizations or someone in the same business for their take on the issue.  Fresh eyes can sometimes see the answer you have been overlooking.  There will be, on the rare occasion, the instance when what you now have in place is just not fixable.  That is when you put on your thinking cap, along with others on your team, and go back to the build it from scratch approach (or "borrow" a new solution from someone else).

>>As promised, the point<<

I apologize for the length of this blog, but I wanted you to see the problem solving, getting to yes mindset, that I can bring to the table if you choose me for your new PUD Commissioner.
Thanks
Tony

         

Which are you?

"Some people take themselves seriously while others take what they do seriously."

As I watch people in various organizations and at functions, the Wizard of Oz occasionally comes to mind.  Some are happy and satisfied to be like the "Great OZ", the ones who must be the center of attention, putting those who approach in awe, frequently accepting the praise for what others accomplish.

Then, there are those, you know the ones, they toil behind the curtain, tugging on the levers and the controls, making things happen and are just as happy to go unnoticed, receiving their fulfillment from what they have accomplished.

I have always tried to be the one behind the curtain, taking what I do seriously and, as much as possible, directing any praise on to others.  Unfortunately, during an election campaign, you must step out from behind the curtain and draw attention to yourself, your qualifications and what you have accomplished.

Sometimes this works, sometimes not. The "Great OZ" is better suited to the limelight, better able to convince the audience of his greatness.  All I can do is my best.   Maybe, with practice, I will become better able sing my own praises??

Thank you
Tony

Good Evening!

I put my daily blog together tonight, but not sure where it will end up.  It made sense to me, says a bit about me, my philosophy and my take on others, but just not sure about it.

It is late, so I will save it and see how it hits me in the morning.

I met with the executive committe of the local Sierra Club today.  Great people, we chatted, asked and answered question, had a laugh or two and a cup of tea.  We are lucky to such an organization dedicated to protecting our environment.

Sunday I will be at the All County Picnic, mostly around the candidate booth, hope to see you there.

I have not been around ringing doorbells, my choice, I want to treat you as I want to be treated and I know how much I dislike having someone disturbing my dinner or other plans for the evening.

I do want to meet you and discuss our PUD and its issues, but at your convenience.  Please, if you or even a group of your friends have a bit of time, give me a call or send an Email and we can get together.

360 385-6335  Home phone
deleo4pud@gmail.com
Thanks and have a great day tomorrow
Tony

After the Debate


"A person of strength will retain their ethics and standards even when those they face lower the bar and stray from the issues in favor of personal attacks and negativity".

I am not sure what to say about last night's debate at the Chimacum Grange.  I addressed the issues, pointed out my qualifications for the position and answered the questions from the audience.  I agreed that there are issues with the PUD, but have chosen to stay positive and talk on how we can build on what has been accomplished.

Mr. Collins, my opponent, seemed to focus more on what he inferred to as my lack of available time for the job and/or a lack of commitment on my part.

As to my time to commit to being a PUD Commissioner, I am now retired and my only commitment, other than my family, is to being a Hospital Commissioner.  For nearly 40 years, I performed my duties for the hospital while working a full time job until I retired.  The Hospital Board's regular meetings are on the first and third Wednesdays of the month and run less than 3 hours.  Yes, there are special meetings and other functions, but most of the time I spend is in research and keeping up with current trends, which allows flexibility in available time.

Mr. Collins inferred that I either lacked the time or commitment to the election in that I have not traveled our county on a doorbelling campaign.  No, I have not been the one knocking at your door.  This is because I want to treat you, the voters, the way I want to be treated.  I do not appreciate someone coming to my door, disturbing my day, my meal or, worst yet, waking  a child you have just gotten to sleep.  We are grandparents and know the drill.  Instead, I have spent the time doing research on the issues facing our PUD, contacting other PUD's for ideas and other tasks preparing me for the post.

I had a booth at the Jefferson County Fair and was there to meet with you each day from opening to close, a total of 30 hours.  I was told that Mr. Collins spent his time at the Democratic Party's Booth.

I would appreciate a chance to share your concerns about our PUD or just get to know each other, but when it is convenient for you.  Just give me a call and we can set  a time to meet. My phone number is 360 385-6335 and my Email is DeLeo4PUD@gmail.com.

I  made this comment in an earlier blog, and will make it again.  When Mr. Collins refers to his 26 years of management experience in the power and utility industry, you might ask him about his specific duties and responsibilities and how they relate to those of a PUD Commissioner.  I did and his response is on his Facebook page, or in my 08/01 blog.

I will stay on the issues and try to avoid the typical politician's approach of attacking my opponent.

I still need your help and support.  Campaigns are expensive and, like many of you, our budget is limited.
Thank you
Tony

I need your help!

"At times, when the goal is important enough and you feel that you can truly make a difference, you may have to do things you wouldn't otherwise do."

I need your help with my campaign.  I have come this far, did well in the primary and all on my own money.  These expenditures have had an impact on our life and plans.  We have, so far, neither asked for nor accepted any contributions.   As difficult as this is to do, I am asking for your contributions to help fund my campaign from now through November.

I have made a commitment to myself that I will never become a typical politician, and I will stand by that commitment.  I am, however sounding a bit like one asking for your help.

Doing this was not easy.  Making this decision cost me many sleepless nights, but I know I can make a difference as a Commissioner on the Board for our PUD.  I can bring years of experience working in the public sector in a very successful organization, Jefferson County Public Hospital District #2, Jefferson Healthcare, to our PUD Board.

I would make sure that our neighbors in need will not be forgotten, push relentlessly for the PUD to be run more like a business, focusing on customer satisfaction.  Solar is the future, as are other alternative energy sources, and should be supported by our PUD and included in the long and short range plans.

I have done the homework and found many of the changes that need to be made.  I continue to learn the strengths and weaknesses of our PUD and ways to support its staff in their efforts to improve its operation. 

So, If you like what you have seen here or have heard about me, please consider contributing to help me to have the opportunity to serve you as a your PUD Commissioner.  Every dollar really makes a difference and would be appreciated.

Thank you
Sherry and Anthony F. (Tony) De Leo

Please send contributions to:
De Leo for PUD
P O Box 1534
Port Hadlock   WA   98339

Solar Power and the PUD

I have listened to the KPTZ interview of Andy Cochrane, Power Trip Energy, by Steve Evens. This piece did an excellent job of covering solar power, the incentive programs and how it relates to our PUD. 

If you have a few minutes, it is well worth the time to listen and learn.  Access is listed below:

http://kptz.org/node/606

Thanks Andy!!
Tony

Another great meeting

"Taking the time to attend important meetings is the surest way to stay informed."

Today, I attended the public meeting of the Citizens' Advisory Board (CAB) for the Public Utility District Board of Commissioners (BOC).  Many topics were covered including developing recommendations to the BOC on assistance to low income customers. 

Cascadia, the Seattle firm contracted to conduct our energy conservation program made a presentation on their progress on the program.  According to their representative, the residential portion is on time and on budget.

Also mentioned was the need for the PUD to develop long range strategic plans for the future of the utility.  

The CAB is a good resource to he BOC, giving them advice on various topics, as assigned.

I will be attending several upcoming candidate forums as well as the All County Picnic, so I will have many opportunities to meet you and discuss PUD.
Tony

Now, just a memory

The Jefferson County Fair in over for another year.  The turnout seemed a bit lower, but hope that enough people attended to make it a success.

I want to thank Bill and Sue McIntire and all of the wonderful people who volunteer their time to keep this important part of our county heritage alive for for all of us!!!

My fair booth is now back in boxes, now on to the campaign.
Thanks for visiting me at the fair and reading my blogs.
Tony

May tomorrow be better

I just arrived home a few minutes ago after spending another 11 hours at the fair.  Eight hours in my campaign booth and three in the hospital district booth.  My wife covered my PUD campaign booth while I was next door.

I really hope there is a better turnout at the fair tomorrow.  Small fairs, like ours, are a treasure, a touch of reality in our plastic techy world.  Please come out tomorrow and support this part of Jefferson County history, and future!!

Hope to see you there tomorrow!!!!
Tony

A day at the fair

Just a quick note, spent a full day, 11 hours, meeting a few of you.  I hope to see more of you tomorrow.  I am in the Old Commercial Building, space #5.  I would appreciate a chance to chat with you.  I learned a bit about water system management from one of my visitors, something new for me to research.

See you tomorrow!!
Tony

Prepare for the Fair

"The longest journey begins with a single step."

The blogs between now and Monday will be a bit short, if at all.  My wife and I are working to get organized for our booth at the Jefferson County Fair.  I will be there all day, every day, aside from the occasional run for the restroom.  On Saturday night, between 6 and 9 PM, my wife will be covering as I will be manning the Jefferson Healthcare booth.

These will be long days that will, I hope, give me a chance to meet more of you in person and have a chance to chat.  If you have any questions that I cannot answer, if you give me your Email address or phone number, I can contact you with the information and then we will both know.

As the campaign progresses, I may need to ask for your help.  One person, working alone, cannot make the needed changes in our PUD and one person, alone, cannot win an election.

Thank you for your votes, now on to November.
Tony

On to November!!

"The count is in, the people have spoken"

Thanks to all of you who voted.  You are the folks that make our democracy work.  I would like to thank each and every one of you in person.  I will be at my booth at the Jefferson County Fair, space #5, Old Commercial Building all weekend, so stop by and let's chat.  I will also be at the All County Picnic on July 17 at the candidates booth, so I will have a lot of opportunity to thank you and discuss the future of our PUD

I was at the courthouse tonight for the release of the first count on the ballots.  It looks like it will be Mr. Collins and me on the November General Election ballot.

The count, as of tonight, with a few ballots still to be counted:

De Leo           787 (29.78%)
Collins        1,181 (44.68%)
McMillen      658 (24.90%)

I knew that someone would not advance tonight.  Ken McMillen has served his country and his community with honor for many years and deserves our respect.  He ran a good, clean campaign, addressing the issues and focusing on the positive.  Ken, thank you for your service!

What really surprised me was the number of "under votes", 439.  I had not previously heard this term, so I looked it up on the Washington State Secretary of  State website and found:
What is an undervote?
An undervote occurs when a voter fails to vote for a particular office or issue. This could be intentional or due to oversight.

I could understand this if a person was running unopposed, but the primary vote decided which two candidates would advance to the General Election.  Why would so many people go to the trouble of casting their ballots but fail to choose a candidate for the PUD race?

Well, now I have to rethink my campaign strategy.  Several of my friends with far more political wisdom are advising me on the path to victory.  I appreciate their council and will consider their advice.  Lots of things to think about.

Thank you for your support, I am still in the race!!!!!!
Tony

For the last minute voter

"Every vote is important and each counts, even those cast at the last minute."

Just a quick note for those still pondering, a summary of why you should vote for me:

For over 40 years, I have served as an elected Commissioner for Jefferson County Public Hospital District No.2, Jefferson Healthcare, a municipal corporation with an annual budget of over 77 million dollars and 581 employees.  The duties of a PUD Commissioner are very similar, so I have the experience necessary.  If elected, I will continue in my hospital post as well.  I have the time and energy and it was OK'd by two legal councils (attorneys).

I am a lifelong Jefferson County resident with a history of community service in such areas as the fire department, Civil Defense, and Emergency Medical Services..

Our PUD should be run like a business, customer centered, while still assisting our financially troubled neighbors.

Our PUD  should make planning a high a priority, including contingencies, for future growth and expansion of services.

Our PUD should champion the cause by supporting alternate energy sources, especially solar.

Our PUD should support our local farmers through cooperative efforts to assure adequate water for agriculture.

Our PUD should aggressively support conservation programs, locally staffed, and make sure that those with lower incomes can still participate through special, low interest loans arranged with banks.

Our PUD should look toward new opportunities to serve our communities, but first, organize and optimize its existing services.  Before taking on new tasks, assure that the planning and preparation have been completed.

Thank you for your support!!
Anthony F. (Tony) De Leo
PUD Commission Candidate

One thousand views!!

When I started this blog back on May 9th, just before I filed for the office of PUD Commissioner, I could have never have imagined that it would viewed by so many.

When I checked my blog tonight, I found this:   1000 pageviews.

Thank you all for taking the time to learn a bit about me and allowing me to share my thoughts and plans for our PUD with you.

This time tomorrow night we will hear your voices as they count the ballots.  Regardless of who is chosen to go forth to the general election, I hope that you maintain the interest in our PUD that you have shown throughout the campaign.  The PUD is ours, yours and mine; lets both help it move forward.

Tony

Thank you

“Elections belong to the people. It's their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit on their blisters.”
Abraham Lincoln

There are just a few hours left for you to cast your ballot.  If you have voted, thank you.  If you have not, please do so!  I would appreciate your vote for me as PUD Commissioner but, however you may vote, I will appreciate that you voted.

Tony

The stuff of life

"Frequently, it is the simple things, the ones we take for granted, that can create the most harm when disrupted."

"It's the water" was the old slogan used by the Olympia Brewing Company.  Maybe this should have been used during the campaign for PUD Commissioner.  Not the beer, but the importance of water and the critical roll our PUD plays in assuring its availability.

When we arose this morning, we took ours shower, brushed our teeth, had breakfast, made our coffee or visited our local barista for our caffeine fix.  So much of our daily routine is dependent upon abundant, safe, clean water.  Over the last couple of days, nearly 500,000 residents of Ohio have become acutely aware of this as they are in their second day with an unsafe water supply.

The human body is around 60% water.  When we loose as little as 1%, it can start affecting our physical and mental function, even before we feel thirsty, usually at 2-3% loss.  We can go for up to 3 weeks without food but most research indicates that going without water for 3 says can result in death.  Under strenuous circumstances, the human body can loose as much as 1 1/2 liters of water per hour.

Imagine the financial impact on our tourism industry here should we have to close our hotels and restaurants due to a water issue. The lingering bad publicity created by a water quality incident could continue to hurt this industry long after the problem has been resolved.  Without water, there would be no paper mill, resulting in the loss of  those living wage jobs for our residents.

And then there is the continuing drought in southern California.  The damage this is causing in food production and the wine and beer industry, could be devastating.  If this continues, the price of food and spirits could skyrocket.  The recovery from the damage this is causing will require years, that is, if the supply of water returns, something that some experts fear may not happen.

 What about our electricity?  We get most of our electricity from BPA (Bonneville Power Administration) with most of its generating capacity dependent upon the power of water from our rivers through its hydroelectric dams.

In the debate, in news articles, and in ads, the PUD Commission campaign has focused on issues relating to our electrical distribution system and even high speed fiber optic internet access, something over which the local ISP providers have more control that does the PUD, but little has been said about water.  No need to discuss this, water will just keep falling from the sky, right?  Well, if you have checked the weather report lately, you will find that it is not!

Water is one of the most critical resources needed for life as we know it, so let's get this into our discussions.  Our future depends on water, for domestic use as well as for our growing (pardon the pun)  local agricultural industry and our water supply depends on the actions of our PUD Board of Commissioners.

Even Captain Smith on the Titanic took water for granted, that is, until the ship struck that great frozen chunk of it.  And we know how that worked for him.

Thank you for viewing my blogs, for your support, and for your vote!!
Anthony F. (Tony) De Leo

Please, do not forget to  (x)  V O T E

"You have two choices, make your voice heard through your vote, or sit back and let others make the decision for you.  Either way you will will have to live with the outcome."

You have only a few hours to cast your vote.  The future of our PUD, in fact, our area, may hang in the balance.  You may ask what difference can one single vote make.  Well, enough "one single" votes can add up to a victory at the polls, or a defeat, be it for a candidate or an important issue.

Thank you for voting!!!
Tony

The cost of my campaign

"In a local election, the office should not necessarily go to the highest bidder, the one willing to spend the most to win the election.  The way that a candidate spends during his or her campaign may say something about their fiscal responsibility."

To date, I have spent $648.11.  This includes prepayment for a booth at the Jefferson County Fair ($115.00) and a shared booth at the All County Picnic ($10.00).

This has all come out of my pocket, and my wife's purse.  Spending this money has not come without some compromises to our plans, but an opportunity to work to improve our PUD, we feel, is worth it.

I want to be able to work toward improving the service offered by our PUD, a public asset of which we can all be proud.  An organization with its eyes on the future and its hands at the controls, assuring a smooth running operation.  I want our PUD to be run like a business but one that will not forget those of our neighbors that are less fortunate than ourselves.

The person you select for your next PUD commissioner will play a significant roll in designing the future of our area.  I feel that I have gained the experience required, during my 40 years as an elected Hospital Commissioner, to make the changes needed in the operations and management of our PUD.

The management of any organization is a team effort with each component doing their own job but coordinating their efforts to create the greatest efficiency and success.

Tuesday is Election day.  I would appreciate your vote, but, the important thing is that

you VOTE!!  Let your voice be heard!!  Those who have served and are serving in our

armed forces have paid too high a price for our liberty and our right to vote, so, please 

remember them and honor their sacrifice by doing your duty, as a citizen, and cast your

ballot.!!

Thank you
Anthony F. (Tony) De Leo
Commissioner Candidate
Jefferson County Public Utility District No. 1

To stand or to Yield

"Once you have taken a position on an issue, you should stand by it, not because of ego or pressure, but because the facts, logic and current information directs you to do so.  If you change your position, it should be for the same reasons."

I have always made my decisions, or changed them, based on the best information available, the advise of the real experts in the field, and an in-depth assessment of the current status of the issue at hand.  The needs of, and input from, those I represent play a major roll as well.

I listen to my gut from time to time but it is the facts that result in the position I take.

Enjoy the sunshine and conserve water whenever you can.  Remember,  asphalt and concrete, once cured,  are quite drought tolerant, THEY DO NOT NEED TO BE WATERED!

Tony

Mr. Collins answer to question:  What were your duties and responsibilities during your career in the energy and utility industries?

Hi Tony, Thank you for asking. My experience in the energy and utility industries were on the human resources side of the business. In the 12 years that I consulted with Pacific Gas & Electric, I coordinated fitness-for-duty evaluations, evaluated employees with substance abuse and mental health issues that might compromise safe work performance, consulted with supervisors, managers and human resource advisors about employees, conducted vendor audits, performed cost/benefit analyses, consulted with safety and security personnel as well as outside experts on threats of violence, provided on-site training on workplace stress, drug and alcohol issues and the employee assistance program for supervisors, managers and employees and consulted with the manager of the employee assistance program on numerous policy issues. In the twelve years that I worked for Chevron Corporation, I began as an employee assistance program advisor, working on-site at the El Segundo refinery and working with refinery workers, truck drivers, oil field workers, welders, boiler makers, research scientists and various technicians. I evaluated employees who presented themselves for assistance with substance abuse, mental health or family problems, as well as employees referred by management because of declining work performance. The work also entailed consultation with supervisors, managers and human resource professionals. After four years, I was promoted to manager and supervised a staff of nine full-time and seven part-time professionals providing services to an international employee population of 30,000+ employees. As manager, I was involved with numerous committees to establish policy on drug and alcohol issues, compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, workplace stress, drug testing, work/life issues and other significant issues of the day and I also helped select and evaluate various vendors. My work with impaired executives was formally recognized by the Vice Chairman of the corporation. I served on the Workplace Health, Safety & Security Committee for the Society for Human Resource Management and have a chapter on workplace drug testing in the Employee Assistance Handbook, published by Wiley. And I have a question for you: What is your experience in the energy and utility industries?
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He has not, as yet, responded to my courtesy request for OK to post this, but, since it is in the public section of his Facebook page, I assume it is public.

In reading his response, it appears that his experience in the industry was related to mental health and substance abuse issues, not operational aspects.  I realize that councilors provide an important service to the employees they work with and increase the safety of the workplace, efficiency and staff well being, but this is not the same as having operational duties and responsibilities for the delivery of the products and services offered by the energy and utility industry.
Tony