Mark Florenza throws hat in ring for council run

Long time islander Mark Florenza is running for the District 3 County Council Seat…here’s his campaign statement announcing his candidacy:

Mark Florenza

In my approximately ten years of living on San Juan Island, I cannot imagine a more crucial time to be running for office.  We are economically challenged but we are also in the middle of a dynamic period of great potential.

Candidates will be vying for three council positions, some issues that have engaged public attention for years will likely be reaching resolution, a new Administrative Officer will be selected in a matter of months, and we can get on with shaping our future..

I am ready to take on the tasks that await a group of citizen leaders who want to contribute the energy and time demanded for increasingly effective SJC governance.

We may be moving toward resolution of Critical Areas Ordinance updates, solid waste, broadband and cell phone coverage. In August, we will have the voters’ verdict on a new sales tax. In November we will elect legislators who will need the creativity and vision to respond to whatever type of governance prevails.  I want to be a part of this as a doer, not a dreamer.

I want to see the Council address the issue which affects nearly all county problems, the long-term viability of our economy without compromising the environment.

The experience I bring includes being the owner and manager of the Technology Center, 25 years of living and working in Latin America and Europe as an international marketing executive; a real estate investor, and a restaurant owner.

I chaired the committee for the reinstatement of the Derelict Vessel Program, I am a member of the Board of the Village at the Harbor, I was the Commander of the FH Power Squadron, and I am now serving as its chief Education Officer.

I can offer assistance where bilingual language proficiency is needed, having served as a qualified interpreter at the San Juan County Court for the past five years.

I believe the Town of Friday Harbor and the entire county will be making a critical choice in coming years to develop a thriving economy or allow stagnation to overcome us.

We are a semi-isolated community which must take maximum advantage of the game-changing economic opportunities provided by state of the art Internet connections and other high tech related innovations.  This can benefit all of us without tampering with the natural beauty of our islands.

I hope the voters of District 3 will consider my qualifications and enthusiasm for the honor of representing them.

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