I’m running for Thurston County Clerk because our community deserves a court system that is truly open, accessible, and accountable to the people it serves.

The Clerk’s Office is the public’s front door to our courts. People turn to it during some of the most important and difficult moments of their lives—seeking a protection order, filing a family-law case, responding to a court action, or trying to understand a complicated legal process. They deserve an office that is open, welcoming, and centered on service.

Right now, too many people encounter barriers when they need help. Restoring access will require more than maintaining existing procedures. It will require experienced leadership prepared to evaluate what is working, address what is not, and guide the office through meaningful change.

The County Clerk is not simply a technical position. The Clerk is an elected executive responsible for setting policy, managing public resources, hiring and supervising employees, supporting and training staff, working with unions and court partners, modernizing systems, and creating a workplace where people can succeed.

I bring nearly 30 years of public-service experience leading people, developing policy, improving programs, training and supporting staff, and navigating complex public systems. I understand how decisions made at the leadership level affect both employees and the people who depend on government services. I also understand that meaningful change requires listening—to staff, court partners, attorneys, advocates, and, most importantly, the public.

Experience performing the day-to-day work of an office has value. But familiarity with existing procedures is not the same as being prepared to lead an entire organization. Thurston County needs a Clerk with demonstrated leadership experience, the ability to build and support a strong team, and a clear vision for improving public access.

As Clerk, I will restore reliable in-person access, strengthen customer service, improve transparency and efficiency, and ensure every person is treated with dignity and respect. I will lead an office that listens, solves problems, and takes responsibility for results.

Thurston County deserves more than a caretaker of the status quo. It deserves an experienced leader who will open the doors, earn the public’s trust, and make the Clerk’s Office work better for everyone.

I’m ready to lead that work.