In an editorial in this week's issue, Editor-Publisher Jack Darnton writes, "We’d like to see Maxwell re-elected and see him continue to work on what’s best for all of Anacortes. With the power and responsibilities Anacortes’ mayor holds under our mayor-council form of government, it’s critical that an experienced and skilled leader is in charge."
Darnton mentions Gere's record of community service, her restaurant business background and her time on the Planning Commission and the Island Hospital Board, adding, "Gere can do this job. But can she do it better than Maxwell?"
The endorsement said Gere "would step into a culture of high expectations and shared values where people are focused on delivering quality city services and amenities in the most cost-effective manner possible — again something Maxwell deserves a lot of credit for developing."
The endorsement said, "Looking around the city, we see so much that’s right. Great parks and trails, a new library and more shoreline access than ever. Strong police and fire departments, sound city infrastructure, low taxes and robust reserve funds." He added, "Maxwell and his team at City Hall have made this happen."