Three incumbents for Snohomish County Council

THREE steady incumbents on the Snohomish County Council have earned re-election. The next four years could be an extraordinary time for a county that has blossomed with young families and new businesses. The future of Boeing will write part of the story, but so will the newcomers who have put down roots.

Councilman John Koster is looking for a third term representing Position 1, which includes Marysville, Arlington, Stanwood and Darrington. For years, Koster's fiscal and rural conservatism has been a successful political fit with his district. He is an advocate for agriculture and a tough vote on budgets. The potential for an upset lurks with Ellen Hiatt Watson, a land-use watchdog.

The district could change out from under Koster. Four years ago, a low-profile opponent gave the incumbent an unexpected scare. Koster is knowledgeable and works well with the majority as he votes against it.

Position 4 covers Bothell, Brier, Mountlake Terrace and Mill Creek. Incumbent Dave Gossett has eight years of steady, thoughtful service to the district, and voters have no good reason not to expect the same quality representation for another four years. His opponent, Bob Meador, has a solid record of public service as a longtime firefighter and fire chief. He now serves as a District 1 fire commissioner and as a Stevens Hospital commissioner. Meador admits he was drawn to the race so Gossett would not run unopposed. A noble act, but not enough reason to unseat Gossett.

The Seattle Times endorsed Councilman Dave Somers in the primary and the subsequent campaign season did not provide any reasons to change. District 5, through Snohomish, Monroe, Sultan, Gold Bar and Index, can make history by giving an incumbent a second consecutive term.

Challenger Steve Dana, a longtime restaurant owner in Snohomish, and distinguished veteran of local government, has praised Somers' work on the budget and resisting enormous fully contained communities, for which Somers even picked up support from old foes in the housing industry.

Three solid incumbents for Snohomish County: John Koster, Dave Gossett and Dave Somers.