Walker writes of importance of listening

MOSES LAKE - This time of the year, the time of year called

fall, we begin to see how fortunate we are to live in Grant County.

The abundance is everywhere, in the orchards, the grain fields, and

the potato fields are dying down, and harvest is under way.

MOSES LAKE - This time of the year, the time of year called fall, we begin to see how fortunate we are to live in Grant County. The abundance is everywhere, in the orchards, the grain fields, and the potato fields are dying down, and harvest is under way.

It is also the time of year we are expected to make choices in the people we want to serve us in the years to come. The Grant County PUD has two positions open for consideration, district 2 and at large district B. The PUD plays a very important role in our lives, not only in the agriculture fields of Grant County but in the vitality and economic well being of our towns and cities. District 2 is the smallest of the three districts because it covers most of the Moses Lake area. That is why it is important to have someone with both a agriculture back ground and a business background. My experience in both will serve me well in being sure all ratepayers, customers, have a voice on the commission, and representation. I have made my voice heard on behalf of all of the customers of the PUD and will continue to do so. I am sure of one thing, you can attend all the meetings, take notes and not challenge the commission or staff, on behalf of the customers and nothing will change, but the commission and staff do listen if you have concerns. It is necessary to speak up, defend those who are not present or can't speak for themselves. I will try to help and that is very important attribute as a commissioner.

Another important part of the role a commissioner plays is one of a listener; it is probably the most important role. Each and every one of us in Grant County plays a part in the operation and direction this utility takes, because it belongs to all of us. I often finish talking with people with this simple statement ‘'we must remember were all in this together''. Making this point, often causes people to step back and look at an issue from both sides and the solution to a problem, often is much clearer. The different groups that once disagreed and couldn't seem to understand each other concerns now have a common ground to work from. I believe with the cooperation gained in this past year, between these groups, the future for the PUD will be much brighter, because we all will benefit, if we at least we listen to each other.

Now comes the most important part of all, you the customers and owners of this PUD, you will be the ones who will choose with your vote. The primary vote had a low voter turnout and not very many of you made your voice heard. I have traveled around the County talking to a lot of you and I believe there is a great deal of interest and concern about the direction our PUD is going. That vote you cast should reflect what you believe is the direction you want this commission to go. That vote is you, expressing your belief, in how you want the commission to respond to those concerns. Please let your voice be heard by voting November 2nd. I would be honored if you cast your vote for Dale Walker, PUD commissioner district 2.