John's Philosophy

YOUR VOICE FOR A UNITED ISLAND COUNTY

John Dean believes there is room in government for everyone.

• He is working to instill Island County government with America's best democratic traditions, expanding representation and opening doors of government to all islanders from all points of views and needs.

TEAMWORK AND COMPROMISE

John Dean believes we all can work together and feel good about it.

• Island County has a diverse population to serve: families, retirees on fixed incomes, small business owners, cottage industries, hobby farmers, the U.S. Navy, forest dwellers, construction companies, and Realtors. Such a complex mix invites county officials and island residents to leave entrenched positions to collaborate creative, just, non-political and bi-partisan win-win solutions that favor all in turn or, ideally, each in some measure.
• Meanwhile, at the courthouse, elected officials, department heads, and staff need leaders they can respect, and a positive culture of professional pride and teamwork.

OPEN, PARTICIPATORY GOVERNMENT

John Dean believes in people and their right to be the primary voice in government.

• Without widespread participation, there is no democracy, republic, or "government of the people." Island County must try even harder to bring government to people. The county can hold periodic press conferences, mail quarterly newsletters, host citizen academies, and brainstorm ways to foster community connections between the people of Whidbey and Camano.
• County representatives need to be visible, making frequent rounds as ambassadors of democracy and open government, continually polling a diverse group of island residents and business people about the quality of their lives, their needs, and expectations.

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