Lisa Ayers has been a Pacific County, Wash., resident for more than 20 years. She has degrees in accounting and computer networking, and is presently working with all Pacific County departments and the county commissioners in the preparation, monitoring and analyzing of the Pacific County budget. 

Her experience in the development and management of governmental budgets is exceptional, and extends to the development and implementation of governmental and departmental policies. She is running for the position of District 3 county commissioner, and I highly recommend her as a person who is reliable, trustworthy and  willing to work hard.

Ayers is committed to being avaliable to the citizens of Pacific County. She has no business interests to cause conflicts, and would be able to pursue this important role as a full-time commissioner. Among her many qualifications, she is a  listener who gives straight-forward answers. She is forthright in her approach to the difficult economic environment and is direct in offering solutions when she can, but is also willing to enlist advice from others. Her background as a senior-level administrator establishing goals and managing governmental budgets equips her to make substantial contributions to the role for which she is seeking your vote.

I have taken advantage of talking with her at her weekly coffee get-togethers, and find her knowledgeable and open. Eleven of her 20 years working with government finances have put her in the unique position of acquiring more than $8 million in grant money and providing follow-up management to specifically benefit Pacific County residents.

In the current economy, the county, like most of us, must evaluate its spending, find opportunities to cut costs, become more efficient and review and balance priorities with available resources. Ayers already has experience in all these areas, and will be able to take hold of the reins and move forward. 

I urge you to consider casting your vote for Lisa Ayers for Pacific County Commissioner.

ANN MERGENS

Raymond, Wash.