The endorsement says, "Gere has business expertise and experience in governance and financial management. She’s spent much of her life in the Anacortes community, just as Maxwell has. But she has a different idea of how to approach the job of mayor." The endorsement said they feel Gere is willing to listen and consider other opinions.
About Maxwell, the endorsement said, "Maxwell does have great understanding of the city’s needs, but he seems unwilling to listen to many of the voices who expect to be heard. His approach has been less than transparent."
The endorsement said the Mayor has met friction with part of the community in recent years. "That friction exposed a bit of a disconnect between Maxwell and his community as well as his understanding of what the changing Anacortes population wants for its future."
But, the Editorial Board said, "As a successful business owner, Gere knows when action has to be taken despite popular opinion, but she says she will bring a collaborative style to City Hall. She will have to find the proper balance in what will continue to be a tough job."
Ballots for the Nov. 5 General Election were delivered to the Post Office on Tuesday and should be delivered Wednesday and Thursday.